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Creamy Jalapeño and Corn Pasta

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Creamy Jalapeño and Corn Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish made with orecchiette pasta tossed in a silky sauce of sweet corn, spicy jalapeños, half-and-half, and parmesan cheese. It’s rich, slightly spicy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 pound orecchiette pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium jalapeño, finely chopped
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen corn (about 3 ears of fresh corn)
  • 1½ cups half and half
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup chopped cilantro (optional)
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orecchiette and cook according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. Meanwhile, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 4–5 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic and chopped jalapeño. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until fragrant and tender.
  4. Stir in corn and cook for 3–4 minutes until it begins to soften.
  5. Reduce heat to low and pour in the half and half. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
  6. Return drained pasta to the pot. Pour in the jalapeño-corn cream sauce and add parmesan cheese. Stir to coat evenly.
  7. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired sauce consistency.
  8. Stir in chopped cilantro (if using), season with salt to taste, and serve warm.

Notes

  • For extra heat, include the jalapeño seeds or add red pepper flakes.
  • Frozen corn works well—just thaw before using.
  • Use other pasta types like shells or fusilli if preferred.
  • Try swapping cilantro with parsley or basil for a different herb flavor.
  • Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms to boost the protein content.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/creamy-jalapeno-and-corn-pasta/