Creamy Corn Pasta with Bacon

Creamy Corn Pasta with Bacon is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Picture this: tender orecchiette pasta, perfectly combined with sweet, juicy corn and crispy bacon, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s everything you could want in a comforting meal, and it’s surprisingly easy to whip up on a weeknight! Whether you’re a busy professional or a family cook looking to impress, this dish gives you that gourmet feel without hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to take advantage of the fresh corn that peaks during the summer months.

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So, grab your apron and let’s make a dish that not only celebrates seasonal ingredients but also delivers a fantastic flavor explosion. You’ll be the hero at the dinner table in no time, impressing everyone with your culinary skills and giving their taste buds a delightful treat. Trust me, once you try this Creamy Corn Pasta with Bacon, it might just become a staple in your home!

Why This Recipe Works

The perfect balance of flavors makes this dish a standout. The combination of crispy bacon and sweet corn provides a delightful contrast. Plus, the unique shape of orecchiette pasta holds onto the creamy sauce and corn perfectly, ensuring every bite is delicious. When you use fresh corn, especially in season, the sweetness and texture enhance the whole experience. And let’s not forget about Cotija cheese! It adds a sharp, salty contrast that brings it all together beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Corn Pasta with Bacon

This dish shines in its ability to bring gourmet vibes to your dinner table quickly. It’s comforting and satisfying, making it ideal for pasta lovers. Additionally, its customizable nature allows you to tailor it based on seasonal ingredients, which means you can keep it fresh and exciting. Each summer, it’s a remarkable way to enjoy the bounty of sweet corn, making it both seasonal and delicious.

Ingredients for Creamy Corn Pasta with Bacon

Gather these ingredients before you start:

• 1 pound dried orecchiette pasta
• 6 slices bacon, diced
• 2 green onions, trimmed and sliced thin (whites and greens separated)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups fresh-cut corn kernels (from 4-6 cobs)
• ⅓ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ cup grated Cotija cheese (or Parmesan cheese)
• Salt (for pasta water and seasoning)

Now that you’ve got everything ready, let’s hop into the cooking!

Cooking Instructions

Bring Water to a Boil

First, fill a large pot with water and toss in a generous pinch of salt. Set it over high heat and bring the water to a rolling boil.

Cook the Pasta

When the water is boiling, add the dried orecchiette pasta. Set a timer to cook it until it’s al dente, following the package instructions. Don’t forget to reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. Once that’s done, return the pasta to the pot.

Crisp the Bacon

Heat a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the diced bacon to the pan. Cook it, stirring occasionally, until it’s crispy. Once it’s gotten nice and crunchy, drain all but 2 tablespoons of the rendered bacon fat from the pan.

Sauté Aromatics

While the bacon is cooking, grab the green onion whites and minced garlic. Toss them into the pan with the bacon. Sauté everything together for about a minute until it smells amazing.

Add the Corn

Now, stir in the fresh corn kernels. Cook them for about 10 minutes until they soften. Enjoy that wonderful aroma filling your kitchen!

Create the Creamy Sauce

Next, in the pan, stir in the heavy cream and unsalted butter. Cook just until the butter melts, which should take about 30 seconds. After that, turn off the heat.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked orecchiette to the pan with the corn mixture. Stir everything together, and while doing so, gradually add the reserved pasta water until the dish is saucy and completely coated.

Finish with Cheese

Right before serving, mix in the grated Cotija cheese. Taste and adjust the seasoning with a bit of extra salt if needed. For a fresh touch, garnish the dish with the green onion tops.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair it with a light salad for a complete meal that refreshes.
• Serve alongside garlic bread for that comforting, hearty dinner.
• Feeling adventurous? Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick!

Tips for Success

• Make sure to use fresh corn when it’s in season for the best flavor.
• Do not skip reserving pasta water; it’s key to achieving the perfect sauce consistency.
• Adjust the quantity of cheese to your liking; if you prefer, you can use Parmesan instead of Cotija.

Variations

You can easily mix things up with these variations:

• Incorporate spinach or kale for healthier greens.
• Swap the bacon for pancetta or turkey bacon for a twist.
• Try different cheeses, like feta, to create a unique flavor profile.

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For reheating, do so gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or cream to help loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen corn is a great and convenient substitute, and it will work just fine in this recipe.

2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Just leave out the bacon and use olive oil to sauté the garlic and onions.

3. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the sauce in advance and add freshly cooked pasta right before serving.

4. What other pasta shapes can I use?
If orecchiette is not handy, penne or fusilli are excellent alternatives.

5. Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Adding cherry tomatoes or bell peppers brings more flavor and color to your dish.

This Creamy Corn Pasta with Bacon perfectly embodies the flavors and textures of summer in every bite. It’s straightforward, quick to make, and guarantees smiles at dinner time. Enjoy this recipe, customize it to your liking, and watch it become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!

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