Creamy rice baked with cheese and poblano strips is a rich Mexican celebration side. This vegetarian, family-friendly dish is a fresh, comforting accompaniment to festive main courses.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 2-quart baking dish and set aside.
Roast poblano peppers directly over a flame or under a broiler until the skins are blistered and blackened, about 6 minutes. Place them in a covered bowl for 10 minutes, then peel, remove seeds, and cut into strips.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Sauté chopped onion for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Add rice to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, for 2–3 minutes until lightly toasted.
Pour in milk and add salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring once midway through, until rice is almost tender.
Fold in Mexican crema, corn, and sliced poblano peppers. Stir gently to evenly combine.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly on top.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted and the top is lightly golden. Cool briefly before serving.