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Frito Corn Salad makes every summer gathering more fun and laid-back. Crunchy Fritos tossed with sweet corn and vibrant peppers, all wrapped up in creamy taco-spiced dressing—this is the one dip my friends request year after year. If you want to stand out at your next cookout or need a dish for game day, this easy salad gets everyone talking.
I first tried this at a neighbor’s barbecue and went home with an empty dish because it disappeared so fast. Now my family begs for it at every picnic.
Ingredients
- Sweet corn: Brings juicy sweetness and crunch. You can use frozen or drained canned corn. Just make sure to thaw or drain well.
- Cheddar cheese: Adds creaminess and richness. For best results shred your own for extra melty texture.
- Green pepper: Gives a fresh bite and color. Look for firm peppers without soft spots.
- Red onion: Offers sharp flavor. Soak chopped onion in ice water for a milder taste.
- Mayonnaise: Creates the salad’s creamy base. Full-fat mayo gives the richest flavor but Greek yogurt works too if you want tang.
- Taco seasoning: Gives bold Tex Mex flavor. Mix your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder or buy a packet.
- Fritos corn chips: Give that addictive salty crunch. Original flavor works best but any type adds personality.
- Black pepper: Adds a little kick. Freshly cracked if possible for the most aroma.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Use a sharp knife to dice green pepper and red onion into small pieces. If you like a gentler onion flavor soak the chopped onion in ice water then pat dry on a paper towel.
- Combine the Base:
- In a large mixing bowl add thawed corn, shredded cheddar cheese, diced green pepper and diced onion. Stir well so everything is evenly mixed.
- Mix the Creamy Dressing:
- Add mayonnaise and taco seasoning to the bowl. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated and the dressing is creamy.
- Season to Taste:
- Sprinkle black pepper in if you want another layer of flavor. Give the salad a taste and adjust pepper as needed.
- Add the Fritos:
- Right before serving gently fold in crushed Fritos. This helps keep them crunchy. You can add half now and sprinkle the rest just before folks dig in.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Scoop into a serving bowl and get those chips ready. Guests always start dipping before you even finish setting the table.
You Must Know
- This salad is an easy make ahead option
- Fritos soften over time so add them at the last moment
- Perfect as a party dip side or fun taco topper
My favorite part is the balance between crunchy chips and cold sweet corn It takes me back to summer pool parties when we’d sneak extra chips for dipping and hope there were leftovers for the next day
Storage Tips
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days For the crunchiest results keep extra Fritos separate and mix in only right before serving If you know you will have leftovers reserve some Fritos for the next day
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily swap the cheese using Pepper Jack for heat or Colby Jack for milder flavor Swap green pepper for any color you like or use celery for extra crunch If you are out of mayo try sour cream Greek yogurt or a blend for a lighter twist
Serving Suggestions
This salad shines as a dip with tortilla chips or pita but I love piling it on grilled burgers or using it as a taco salad filling You can even stuff it in scooped-out tomatoes for a playful lunch It also works beautifully scooped with crunchy veggies
Cultural Context
Frito Corn Salad is a potluck staple across the American South and Midwest You will often see it at tailgates and church picnics where hearty simple crowd-pleasers are king Taco seasoning and Fritos bring a nostalgic Tex Mex flair making this salad a backyard favorite
Common Recipe Questions
- → What kind of corn works best?
Frozen, thawed sweet corn or well-drained canned corn both give the salad its signature sweetness and texture.
- → Can I swap the cheese?
Absolutely. Try Pepper Jack for a little spice, or use your favorite shredded cheese for a different flavor.
- → How do I keep the chips crunchy?
Mix in the crushed Fritos right before serving to ensure they add a crisp, satisfying bite.
- → Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Swap or add red, yellow, or orange bell peppers, or include celery for extra crunch.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Note the chips will soften over time, so add fresh ones before eating.
- → Can I make it ahead?
Yes, just prepare the salad base in advance, store chilled, and add the crushed Fritos when ready to serve.