corn pasta recipe

Creamy Corn Pasta is a vibrant and comforting dish that beautifully bridges the gap between summer and fall. This fresh, flavorful recipe uses sweet corn to create a luscious, cream-free sauce that clings to pasta shells in every bite. Bursting with basil, garlic, and shallots, this easy 30-minute meal is ideal for weeknights or as a seasonal dinner party centerpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No cream needed: Corn blends into a naturally creamy sauce

• Fresh and seasonal: Sweet corn and basil bring peak summer flavor

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes

• Light yet satisfying: Comforting without being heavy

• Versatile: Works well as a main or side dish

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 12 ounces shell pasta

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

• 3 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears)

• 2 shallots, chopped (about ⅔ cup)

• 2 garlic cloves, chopped

• 1 teaspoon sea salt

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• ½ cup grated pecorino cheese

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves

• Red pepper flakes, for sprinkling

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Before draining, reserve 1½ cups of the pasta cooking water.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the corn, shallots, garlic, salt, and a few grinds of pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the corn is bright and tender and the shallots are soft. Remove from heat.

3. Transfer half of the corn mixture to a blender. Add ½ cup of the reserved pasta water and the lemon juice. Blend until completely smooth.

4. Add the cooked pasta to the remaining vegetables in the skillet. Return to low heat and stir in the corn puree.

5. Add the grated pecorino and ¼ cup more pasta water. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce evenly coats the pasta. Add more pasta water as needed to reach your preferred consistency.

6. Season to taste with additional salt, pepper, lemon juice, or cheese. Fold in half of the basil.

7. Serve warm, garnished with the remaining basil and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Cheese options: Swap pecorino for Parmesan or try adding a touch of ricotta for more creaminess

• Herb boost: Mix in fresh parsley or chives alongside the basil

• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne

• Add protein: Stir in grilled shrimp, diced chicken, or crispy pancetta

• Make it vegan: Use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast in place of pecorino

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. The sauce may thicken after refrigeration.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, if corn is out of season, frozen kernels work just fine. Just thaw and drain before using.

Is this pasta dish gluten-free?

It can be! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta.

How do I make the sauce extra smooth?

Blend the corn mixture thoroughly and make sure to add enough pasta water to get a velvety texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can make the sauce a few hours ahead and cook the pasta just before serving.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or spinach would pair well with the corn.

What’s a good substitute for pecorino?

Parmesan is the best alternative, or use a hard aged cheese of your choice.

What pasta shapes work best?

Shells are ideal because they catch the sauce and corn. Orecchiette, penne, or rotini also work.

How can I make it dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese and blend a few soaked cashews into the sauce for richness.

Why is the pasta sauce too thick?

Add more pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Can I freeze leftovers?

This dish isn’t ideal for freezing as the texture of the sauce may change, but it’s safe to freeze in a pinch.

Conclusion

Creamy Corn Pasta is a delicious way to savor the last of summer’s sweetness. With a silky corn-based sauce, fragrant basil, and sharp pecorino, every bite is comforting, fresh, and full of flavor. Whether served on its own or as part of a larger spread, this pasta is sure to earn a spot in your warm-weather dinner rotation.

Print