Irresistible Fritos Corn Salad
A Tex-Mex–inspired summer side dish featuring sweet corn, creamy dressing, shredded cheese, and colorful veggies, topped with crunchy Fritos corn chips. It’s bold, creamy, salty, sweet, and addictively crunchy.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serves: 8
Ingredients
For the Salad:
4 cups sweet corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen/thawed)
1 cup red bell pepper, diced
½ cup green onions, sliced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1–2 jalapenos, diced
For the Dressing:
½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp cumin
Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Crunch:
2 cups Fritos corn chips, lightly crushed
Extra Fritos for topping before serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Corn
Fresh corn: Boil or grill 4–5 ears, then cut kernels off the cob.
Canned corn: Drain well.
Frozen corn: Thaw and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a large bowl, combine corn, diced bell pepper, green onions, and shredded cheese.
If using jalapenos, add them now.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 4: Combine
Pour dressing over the corn mixture and stir until everything is coated.
Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes if you want the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Add the Crunch
Just before serving, fold in the crushed Fritos so they stay crispy.
Sprinkle extra Fritos on top for presentation.
Notes & Tips
Make-ahead tip: Prepare salad and dressing in advance, but add Fritos right before serving to prevent sogginess.
Cheese swap: Try pepper jack for a spicier kick.
Extra flavor: Add a squeeze of lime juice for brightness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make it healthier?
A: Yes — swap mayo for Greek yogurt, use baked corn chips, and reduce cheese for a lighter version.
Q: Can I serve it warm?
A: It’s traditionally served cold, but you can serve it at room temperature if the corn is freshly cooked.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~280 kcal
Protein: 7g
Carbs: 28g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: ~350mg