Name: Brown Butter Corn Pasta with Basil and Parmesan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American

Brown Butter Corn Pasta with Basil and Parmesan

Brown Butter Corn Pasta with Basil and Parmesan cover

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Brown Butter Corn Pasta with Basil and Parmesan

Browndis

Ingredients

Warning0 allergens identified

Instructions

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Cook until the butter foams, turns golden brown, and gives off a nutty aroma — about 5-7 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the corn kernels, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, just until the corn is tender and slightly golden.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, toss for about a minute till coated adding splashes of reserved pasta water until the sauce becomes silky and clings to the pasta. I added about 3 splashes.

Remove from heat and add the grated Parmesan and 1 tablespoon of fresh butter, coat till the butter dissolves.

Stir in torn fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and basil on top.

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Tips & Tricks (5)

Brown Your Butter Properly 🧈
Watch the butter carefully as it melts—it should turn golden with a nutty aroma in 5-7 minutes, not black. Swirl occasionally and remove from heat the moment you smell toasted nuts to prevent burning.
Reserve Pasta Water Before Draining 💧
Save at least 1 cup of starchy pasta water before draining—this emulsifies with the brown butter to create a silky sauce that coats each strand beautifully.
Toast Corn for Deeper Flavor 🌽
Lightly pan-sear your corn kernels in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes before adding to the sauce to develop sweet, caramelized notes that elevate the entire dish.
Tear Basil by Hand at the End 🌿
Never cut basil with a knife as it bruises and blackens quickly—tear leaves by hand just before serving to maintain their bright, fresh flavor and vibrant green color.
Finish with Cold Butter and Cheese 🎯
Remove the pan from heat, then whisk in a knob of cold butter and freshly grated Parmesan to create an extra-creamy sauce without breaking—this technique is called 'mounting' and makes a noticeable difference.