Corn Carbonara

Corn Carbonara

4 servings
Peak-summer corn and crispy bacon bring sweet, salty, and smoky flavors to classic carbonara pasta.

Ingredients

  • ears fresh yellow corn

    shucked

    3
  • egg yolks
    5 large
  • eggs
    2 large
  • Pecorino Romano cheese

    plus more for garnish

    3 oz
  • Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
    2 oz
  • black pepper

    plus more for garnish

    1 tsp
  • thick-cut bacon
    5 oz
  • spaghetti
    1 lb
  • fresh basil leaves

    for garnish

    1 small

Directions

  1. 1

    Cut kernels from corn to yield about 2 1/2 cups; set aside. Scrape corn milk from cobs into a large heatproof bowl using the back of a knife; discard cobs. Add egg yolks, eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, and black pepper to bowl with corn milk; whisk until well combined. Set aside.

  2. 2

    Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil over high. Meanwhile, cook bacon in a medium skillet over medium, stirring often, until browned and lightly crisp, 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer bacon to a paper towel–lined plate using a slotted spoon. Add corn kernels to drippings in skillet; cook, stirring often, until tender, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Transfer about 1/4 cup corn to plate with bacon. Transfer remaining corn and drippings in skillet to egg mixture; whisk immediately to release steam until slightly cooled, about 1 minute. Set aside.

  3. 3

    Cook spaghetti in boiling water according to package directions until al dente. About 1 minute before pasta is finished cooking, scoop out 1/4 cup cooking liquid, and slowly pour into egg mixture, whisking constantly, until well combined and sauce is loosened.

  4. 4

    Transfer about one-third of pasta to egg mixture using tongs, letting excess water drip off; quickly and gently toss to combine. Transfer remaining pasta to egg mixture; continue stirring and tossing using tongs until sauce thickens and coats pasta, 2 to 3 minutes. (Sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.)

  5. 5

    Divide pasta evenly among 4 shallow bowls, and top with reserved bacon and corn. Garnish with basil and additional Pecorino Romano and pepper; serve immediately.

Corn Carbonara

Corn Carbonara

30 min4 servings837 cal

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About this Recipe

Sweet & Savory: Your New Favorite Corn Carbonara Recipe

Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this incredible Corn Carbonara! This isn't just any pasta dish; it's a celebration of peak-summer corn combined with the rich, savory indulgence of classic carbonara. Imagine perfectly al dente spaghetti coated in a luscious, creamy sauce made from egg yolks, Pecorino Romano, and Parmigiano-Reggiano, all studded with the sweet pop of fresh corn and crisp, salty bacon. It’s a match made in culinary heaven, delivering a symphony of sweet, salty, and smoky flavors in every forkful.

This quick and easy carbonara recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a special meal when you’re craving something truly delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The secret lies in using fresh, vibrant yellow corn, which adds a natural sweetness that perfectly balances the rich umami of the cheeses and the smoky depth of the thick-cut bacon. The generous amount of black pepper brings a delightful warmth and spiciness, authentic to traditional carbonara.

Tips for the Perfect Corn Carbonara

  • Fresh is Best: While you can substitute, using fresh yellow corn cut straight from the cob truly makes this dish shine, offering the best flavor and texture.
  • Crispy Bacon: Don't rush the bacon! Getting it perfectly crispy is key to adding that delightful textural contrast and smoky flavor.
  • Bronze-Cut Spaghetti: If you can find it, bronze-cut spaghetti has a rougher texture that helps the creamy carbonara sauce cling beautifully to every strand.
  • Serving Suggestions: This Corn Carbonara is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. For an extra touch of freshness, a sprinkle of small fresh basil leaves as a garnish is a must! You could also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

This unique corn and bacon pasta is sure to become a beloved favorite, bringing the vibrant taste of summer to your table year-round.

Frequently Asked Questions