Dinner

Creamy Corn Pasta Recipe

ByElena Hart February 20, 2026February 20, 2026

Introduction

This creamy corn pasta is a delightful celebration of fresh summer flavors. Sweet corn, aromatic basil, and tangy pecorino come together in a luscious sauce that coats tender shell pasta perfectly. It’s an easy, satisfying dish that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Two white bowls filled with three layers of creamy pasta shells, small yellow corn kernels, and green spinach leaves. The creamy sauce coats the pasta evenly, showing a smooth, light beige color. Fresh green basil leaves sit on top as a garnish, and red chili flakes are sprinkled over the dish adding small red specks. The bowls are set on a white marbled surface, with two silver forks lying beside them and a small white bowl holding extra chili flakes nearby. A glass of water and a white and yellow striped cloth napkin are placed around the bowls. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 ounces shell pasta
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

Kernels from 4 ears fresh corn (about 3 cups)
2 shallots, chopped (⅔ cup)

2 garlic cloves, chopped
1 teaspoon sea salt

Freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
½ cup grated pecorino cheese

1 cup fresh basil leaves
Red pepper flakes, for sprinkling

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the shell pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1½ cups of the pasta cooking water before draining.

Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the corn kernels, chopped shallots, garlic, sea salt, and several grinds of black pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until the shallots soften and the corn is tender and bright yellow. Turn off the heat.
Step 3: Transfer half of the corn mixture to a blender. Add ½ cup of the reserved pasta water and the fresh lemon juice. Puree until smooth.
Step 4: Return the skillet with the remaining corn mixture to low heat. Add the drained pasta and stir to combine. Pour in the corn puree and mix to coat the pasta evenly.

Step 5: Stir in the grated pecorino cheese and ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water. Continue stirring until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce. Add more pasta water as needed to reach the desired consistency.
Step 6: Season the pasta to taste with additional salt and pepper if needed. Fold in half of the fresh basil leaves.
Step 7: Serve garnished with the remaining basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Tips & Variations

For a richer sauce, stir in a splash of cream or substitute pecorino with Parmesan cheese.
Use frozen corn if fresh is unavailable — thaw and drain before cooking.
Add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for extra protein.

Switch up the herbs by substituting basil with fresh thyme or parsley.

Storage

Store leftover creamy corn pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed.

How to Serve

A bowl of creamy pasta with small shell-shaped noodles coated in a light off-white sauce, mixed with yellow corn kernels. There are dark green fresh basil leaves scattered on top, adding color contrast to the pale pasta. Some red chili flakes are sprinkled lightly, giving small pops of red. The dish is served in a round white bowl with a textured brown rim. The background is a white marbled surface with a white and yellow striped cloth partially visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn works well when fresh corn is out of season. Simply thaw and drain it before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Gradually add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce while stirring until you reach your preferred consistency. The starch in the pasta water helps create a smooth, creamy texture.