One-Pot Creamy Corn and Bacon Pasta

One-Pot Creamy Corn and Bacon Pasta

4 servings
A Parmesan cheese sauce basically makes itself in this easy and flavorful one-pot pasta.

Ingredients

  • slices thick-cut bacon

    chopped, about 3/4 cup

    4
  • panko
    ¼ c
  • shallots

    finely chopped, about 1/2 cup

    2 medium
  • garlic

    finely chopped, about 2 tbsp.

    6 cloves
  • crushed red pepper
    ½ tsp.
  • fresh yellow corn kernels or frozen corn

    from 6 ears

    10.5 c
  • kosher salt
    1 ½ tsp.
  • orecchiette pasta
    12 oz.
  • parmigiano-reggiano cheese

    grated, about 3/4 cup

    3 oz.
  • chopped fresh chives

    plus more for garnish

    ½ c

Directions

  1. 1

    Cook bacon: Cook bacon in a large saucepan (about 4 quarts) over medium, stirring occasionally, until brown and crispy, about 8 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to a plate lined with paper towels. Transfer 1 tablespoon drippings to a small bowl; discard all but 1 tablespoon of remaining drippings.

  2. 2

    Make breadcrumbs: Heat drippings in saucepan over medium. Add panko; cook, stirring often, until browned, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl.

  3. 3

    Cook corn: Add reserved 1 tablespoon drippings to saucepan. Add shallots, garlic, and crushed red pepper; cook, stirring often, until softened, about 2 minutes. Add corn and salt; cook, stirring often, until softened, about 3 minutes.

  4. 4

    Boil pasta: Add 4 cups water and pasta; bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and bottom of pan becomes visible when stirred, 12 to 14 minutes.

  5. 5

    Add cheese: Add cheese to pan; cook, stirring, until melted and creamy, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in chives and cooked bacon. Serve topped with toasted panko and more chives.

One-Pot Creamy Corn and Bacon Pasta

One-Pot Creamy Corn and Bacon Pasta

40 min4 servings551 cal

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About this Recipe

Searching for a comforting, satisfying dinner that’s surprisingly simple to make? This One-Pot Creamy Corn and Bacon Pasta delivers big on flavor with minimal cleanup, making it the perfect weeknight indulgence. This generous dinner yields four hearty servings, perfect for a cozy family meal.

Why This Recipe Works

The brilliance of this recipe lies in its one-pot design, which means less time scrubbing dishes and more time enjoying your meal. A rich Parmesan cheese sauce truly makes itself, effortlessly blending with sweet corn and savory bacon to create a deeply satisfying dish that tastes like it took hours, but comes together with ease. The strategic combination of creamy textures, sweet corn, and savory bacon makes this a balanced and irresistibly delicious meal.

What to Expect

Prepare for a truly delightful experience with every forkful. You'll find tender orecchiette pasta enveloped in a luxuriously creamy, savory Parmesan sauce, brightened by the natural sweetness of fresh yellow corn. Each bite is punctuated by crispy, salty bits of thick-cut bacon and a subtle crunch from the panko. The fragrant aromatics of shallots and garlic, with a hint of crushed red pepper, add depth without overpowering the dish. This one-pot method ensures all the flavors meld together beautifully for a cohesive, comforting bowl.

Customization & Variations

While the combination of corn and bacon is a classic, you can easily adapt this dish. If fresh corn isn't in season, frozen corn works beautifully. For a different texture, consider swapping orecchiette for another small, sturdy pasta shape that can capture the sauce. You can also experiment with adding a touch of fresh parsley alongside the chives for an extra layer of herbal freshness, or a pinch more red pepper for a spicier kick.

Serving & Context

This creamy, comforting pasta is an ideal dinner for any night you crave something hearty and delicious. Garnish with extra fresh chives just before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions