Ready in 17 minutes from start to finish

Smoky, creamy, and customizable heat

Uses pantry ingredients you may already have

Naturally meatless, but easy to add protein

Perfect balance of spicy chipotle + sweet corn

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the penne and cook according to package directions (typically 9–11 minutes) until al dente.
Before draining, reserve 2 tablespoons of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the smoky chipotle sauce
Heat a medium skillet over medium heat.
Add the tomato sauce, chipotle sauce, and cream.
Stir continuously for 1–2 minutes, until the sauce is smooth and gently bubbling.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Add the corn
Stir the corn into the sauce and cook for about 1 minute, just until heated through.

Step 4: Combine pasta & sauce
Add the cooked penne to the skillet.
Toss everything together for 2 minutes, until the pasta is fully coated and glossy.
If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 5: Serve
Remove from heat and plate immediately.
Garnish with parsley, grated cheese, or crushed red pepper if desired.

Tips for Best Results
Salt the pasta water generously — it’s your main seasoning layer.

If using canned corn, drain it well before adding.

For extra silkiness, stir in a small splash of cream right before serving.

Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.

Variations & Add-Ins
Add protein: Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crumbled sausage

Extra smoky: Add ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

Spicier: Stir in more chipotle sauce or crushed red pepper

Cheesy: Finish with grated Parmesan or Monterey Jack