Frito Corn Salad Clara quick dinners

Frito Corn Salad is a bold, crunchy, and creamy side dish that combines sweet corn, shredded cheese, tangy dressing, and crispy Fritos for an irresistible mix of textures and flavors. It’s a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, BBQs, or any casual gathering where you want to bring something fun and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad comes together in minutes with just a handful of ingredients and packs a punch of flavor in every bite. It’s creamy, crunchy, sweet, and salty all at once—thanks to the mix of corn, cheese, and Fritos chips. No cooking is required, and you can make it ahead (just add the chips last-minute!). It’s the perfect side for burgers, grilled meats, or tacos.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Canned whole kernel corn (drained) or frozen corn (thawed)
• Red bell pepper
• Green onions
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Chili powder or taco seasoning (optional, for flavor boost)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fritos corn chips (regular or chili cheese flavor)

directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn, chopped red bell pepper, sliced green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese.
2. In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise (and sour cream, if using) with salt, pepper, and optional chili powder or taco seasoning.
3. Pour the dressing over the corn mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
4. Just before serving, fold in the Fritos to maintain their crunch.
5. Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator (add Fritos right before serving if making ahead).

Servings and timing

Servings: 68
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time (optional): 1530 minutes
Total Time: 1040 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce.
• Mexican-Inspired: Use Cotija cheese and fresh cilantro, and add lime juice and cumin.
• Bacon Twist: Mix in crispy crumbled bacon for smoky flavor.
• Creamy Ranch: Substitute some or all of the mayo with ranch dressing.
• Veggie Boost: Add black beans, diced tomatoes, or avocado.

storage/reheating

Frito Corn Salad is best served immediately after adding the chips. If making ahead, store the salad mixture (without chips) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add fresh Fritos right before serving to keep them crispy. This salad is not recommended for freezing due to the dairy content and texture.

FAQs

Can I make Frito Corn Salad ahead of time?

Yes, but keep the Fritos separate until just before serving to maintain their crunch.

What kind of corn should I use?

You can use canned corn (drained), frozen corn (thawed), or even fresh corn off the cob if it’s in season.

Can I use a different kind of chip?

Sure, try Doritos, tortilla chips, or chili cheese-flavored Fritos for a flavor twist.

How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?

Store the salad mixture and chips separately and mix them together only when you’re ready to serve.

Can I make this without mayo?

Yes, substitute with Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a creamy dressing like ranch if preferred.

Is this salad served hot or cold?

Frito Corn Salad is best served cold or at room temperature.

Can I add meat to make it a meal?

Absolutely—add diced grilled chicken, ground beef, or taco-seasoned turkey to make it more filling.

How spicy is the salad?

It’s not spicy as written, but you can adjust the heat by adding jalapeños, chili powder, or hot sauce.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free corn chips and check the labels on seasonings and sauces.

How long does it last in the fridge?

The salad mixture (without chips) lasts up to 2 days in the fridge. Once chips are added, it should be eaten the same day for best texture.

Conclusion

Frito Corn Salad is a quick, flavorful, and fun addition to any meal or gathering. With its mix of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and salty components, it’s the kind of side dish that disappears fast and gets asked for again and again. Make it once and watch it become your go-to party favorite.

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