When the summer sun shines brightly and the corn at the local farmer’s market is at its sweetest, inspiration strikes. I found myself dreaming up the perfect dish to celebrate those flavors, and what emerged was an Easy Creamy Corn Pasta that has quickly become a household favorite. The magic begins as you sauté fresh garlic in butter, filling the kitchen with an inviting aroma that promises comfort and satisfaction.
This pasta dish blends the sweetness of corn with a luscious cream sauce, elevated by a hint of lemon and a sprinkle of parmesan. Whether you’re hosting friends for dinner or simply looking to elevate your weeknight meals, this recipe is your answer. It’s easy enough for a busy evening yet elegant enough to impress. Toss it all together in just a matter of minutes, and watch how quick it disappears from your table! Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that proves homemade food triumphs over fast food every time.
Why is this Easy Creamy Corn Pasta a Must-Try?
Easy to whip up on a busy evening, this recipe combines convenience with mouthwatering taste. Creamy goodness coats every bite, blending the sweetness of corn and the decadence of heavy cream to perfection. Herb-packed with fresh basil and a touch of lemon, it adds brightness to your meal. Perfectly satisfying, whether enjoyed solo or as a side dish at dinner parties, it will disappear in no time! For more easy pasta recipes, consider trying this pasta with roasted vegetables.
Easy Creamy Corn Pasta Ingredients
Get ready to celebrate the flavors of summer with this delightful dish!
For the Pasta
• 8 ounces pasta – Choose your favorite shape, like fettuccine or penne, for great texture.
For the Sauce
• 2 tablespoons butter – This adds a rich flavor and helps to sauté the garlic.
• 1/2 tablespoon flour – This creates a thickening agent for a luscious cream sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with a beautiful aroma and depth of flavor.
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth or dry white wine – Use broth for a savory touch, or wine for added complexity.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens the sauce and balances the creaminess.
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Adds an herby blend that complements the dish beautifully.
• 3/4 cup heavy cream – Gives that dreamy, silky texture you’ll love.
For the Corn and Cheese
• 1.5 cups corn (frozen or fresh) – Sweet corn is essential; it’s what makes this Easy Creamy Corn Pasta shine!
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese – Cheese adds richness and a savory finish to the sauce.
For Garnish
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, torn or chopped – Fresh basil not only adds flavor but elevates the dish’s presentation.
• Salt & pepper to taste – A light seasoning balances flavors; adjust according to your preferences.
How to Make Easy Creamy Corn Pasta
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Boil a salted pot of water over high heat. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente—usually about 8-10 minutes.
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Melt the butter in a skillet set over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes, until it forms a paste and turns a light golden color.
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Sauté the minced garlic in the skillet, allowing it to become fragrant—just around 30 seconds. Then, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning, letting it bubble for another 30 seconds to combine flavors.
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Whisk in the heavy cream and add the corn to the skillet. Continue cooking for a few minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens to your liking.
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Combine the freshly grated parmesan cheese and torn basil into the sauce, removing the skillet from heat as the cheese melts into the creaminess.
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Toss the drained pasta in the skillet with the creamy sauce, ensuring everything is well-coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately—enjoy!
Optional: Garnish with extra parmesan and fresh basil for an added touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Creamy Corn Pasta
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain creaminess.
Freezer: This Easy Creamy Corn Pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: To reheat frozen pasta, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then warm it gently on the stove with a little cream for creaminess. Avoid microwaving to prevent separation.
Serving Suggestions: If you plan to serve it later, consider undercooking the pasta by one minute, as it will continue to cook when reheated in the sauce.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Creamy Corn Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy texture. Simply follow the recipe up until adding the corn and cheese, then let it cool completely before refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce over medium heat while boiling fresh pasta until al dente. Toss in the cooked pasta, adding the corn and parmesan cheese, and your delicious meal will taste just as fresh! This allows you to put a delightful dinner on the table in no time, making meal prep a breeze.
Expert Tips for Easy Creamy Corn Pasta
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Pasta Perfection: Cook the pasta al dente for the best texture; it’ll finish cooking when tossed with the hot sauce.
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Sauté Garlic Gently: Don’t let the garlic brown; it should be fragrant but not burnt, as burnt garlic can become bitter.
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Creamy Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or pasta water to reach your desired creaminess without sacrificing flavor.
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Season Wisely: Always taste your sauce before serving and adjust salt and pepper. This ensures a balanced flavor that enhances the Easy Creamy Corn Pasta.
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Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh corn when in season. Frozen corn works too, but fresh adds a sweeter crunch!
What to Serve with Easy Creamy Corn Pasta?
Creating an unforgettable meal experience is just a few steps away when you indulge in this creamy delight.
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Garlic Bread: The perfect pair to soak up any leftover sauce, its crunchy exterior complements the creamy texture beautifully.
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Roasted Vegetables: Bright, colorful veggies like bell peppers and zucchini add a delightful crunch and fresh element to your plate. Their natural sweetness echoes the corn in the pasta.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and zesty dressing provide a refreshing contrast that complements the richness of the pasta, balancing the meal nicely.
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Grilled Chicken: A protein-packed addition that integrates well with the creamy sauce, adding depth and heartiness to your meal.
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Lemon Sorbet: Finish on a refreshing note; its bright flavor cleanses the palate after enjoying the creamy dish and adds a delightful finish to your meal.
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Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay elevates the experience, as its fruity notes harmonize with the brightness of lemon and freshness of basil.
Easy Creamy Corn Pasta Variations
Feel free to explore these fun twists to make your Easy Creamy Corn Pasta your very own!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast in place of parmesan for a vegan delight.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a warm, zesty kick that elevates flavors beautifully.
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Protein-Packed: Stir in cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein, making this dish even heartier and filling for family meals.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for a colorful, nutrient-rich boost that adds texture and flavor.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or parsley to switch up the flavor profile, enhancing the freshness of the dish.
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Cheesy Twist: Mix in a blend of cheeses—like mozzarella or goat cheese—alongside parmesan for a gooey, delectable sauce that melts in your mouth.
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Lemon Zest: Grate the zest of a lemon into the sauce for an extra citrusy punch that brightens every bite and uplifts the creamy flavors.
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Nutty Addition: Consider adding toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creaminess.
Easy Creamy Corn Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use your favorite pasta shape—like fettuccine for an elegant twist or penne for a hearty bite. The choice is yours, but I often recommend something that holds onto the sauce well.
How should I store leftovers of Easy Creamy Corn Pasta?
After enjoying your delicious pasta, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to help maintain that luscious creaminess!
Can I freeze Easy Creamy Corn Pasta?
Yes! To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it into a freezer-safe container. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet with a little bit of cream to keep it from drying out.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce is thicker than desired, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of either chicken broth or the pasta water you set aside before draining. Whisk it in over low heat until you’ve reached that creamy consistency you love. It’s all about making it just right for you!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! If you’re looking to make this dish vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also swap the heavy cream with a plant-based cream for a dairy-free option. Always check for allergies, particularly with the cheese and broth, as these can vary by brand.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
For even more flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or some fresh lemon zest to brighten the sauce. You can also sauté some fresh vegetables alongside the garlic—like spinach or bell peppers—for added nutrition and taste. The more, the merrier!
Creamy Corn Pasta That Elevates Your Weeknight Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil a salted pot of water over high heat. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
- Sauté the minced garlic in the skillet for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning, allowing to bubble for another 30 seconds.
- Whisk in the heavy cream and add the corn to the skillet. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the parmesan cheese and torn basil.
- Toss the drained pasta in the skillet with the sauce, ensuring everything is well-coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately.