If you’re craving a rich, flavorful pasta dish that comes together in no time, this brown butter corn pasta is your answer. With a perfect balance of nutty brown butter, sweet corn, and al dente pasta, this recipe is a quick yet gourmet meal that will impress even the pickiest eaters. Best of all, you can make this brown butter corn pasta in just 25 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
In this post, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to create this delicious dish, along with expert tips, ingredient swaps, and serving suggestions. Whether you’re a pasta lover or just looking for a new way to enjoy seasonal corn, this recipe is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Brown Butter Corn Pasta
Before diving into the recipe, let’s talk about why this dish is a winner:
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in 25 minutes with minimal prep.
✅ Rich & Flavorful – Brown butter adds a deep, nutty taste.
✅ Seasonal & Fresh – Sweet corn brings a burst of summer flavor.
✅ Versatile – Easily customizable with different herbs, cheeses, or proteins.
Now, let’s get cooking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this brown butter corn pasta in just 25 minutes, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (for browning)
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (thawed if frozen)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon (zest and juice, optional for brightness)
- ½ cup pasta water (reserved for creaminess)
Optional Add-Ins:
- Grilled shrimp or chicken for extra protein
- Cherry tomatoes for acidity
- Arugula or spinach for greens
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook until al dente (check package instructions).
- Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water—this starchy liquid helps create a silky sauce.
2. Brown the Butter
- While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Swirl the pan occasionally until the butter turns golden brown and smells nutty (~3-4 minutes). Be careful not to burn it!
- Immediately add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Sauté the Corn
- Add the corn kernels to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly caramelized.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Combine Everything
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the brown butter corn mixture.
- Add Parmesan cheese and a splash of pasta water, stirring until the sauce coats the noodles.
- Finish with fresh herbs, lemon zest, and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
- Divide into bowls and top with extra Parmesan and herbs.
- Pair with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Brown Butter Corn Pasta
🔹 Use Fresh Corn When Possible – Grilled or roasted corn adds extra smokiness.
🔹 Don’t Skip Pasta Water – It helps emulsify the sauce.
🔹 Brown Butter Carefully – Remove from heat as soon as it turns amber to prevent burning.
🔹 Add Protein – Shrimp, chicken, or crispy pancetta make it heartier.
Variations & Substitutions
- Dairy-Free? Use vegan butter and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Gluten-Free? Swap in your favorite GF pasta.
- Extra Creamy? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone.
- Herb Swap Try thyme, chives, or tarragon instead of basil.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—a restaurant-worthy brown butter corn pasta ready in just 25 minutes! This dish is creamy, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable, making it a staple in any home cook’s repertoire.
Did you try this recipe? Tag us on social media and share your creations! For more quick pasta ideas, check out our [related recipes].
Happy cooking! 🍝🌽