The first time I brought Frito Corn Salad to a backyard BBQ, I watched people go back for seconds before they even finished their first plate. There’s just something about the sweet corn, the tangy dressing, and that irresistible Frito crunch that makes this side dish vanish fast. It’s colorful, quick, and absolutely perfect for summer gatherings.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You can make it in minutes with simple, everyday ingredients.
Every bite is a mix of sweet, tangy, and crunchy textures.
It works for BBQs, potlucks, or even holiday tables. Plus, you can easily change it up with fun add-ins.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh corn kernels (or canned/frozen, drained/thawed)
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 bag (9.25 oz) Chili Cheese Fritos, crushed
Optional Substitutions & Add-Ins
- Use plain or other flavored Fritos instead of chili cheese
- Swap mayo for sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter touch
- Add diced jalapeños for extra heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
Mix the Salad Base
In a large bowl, combine the corn, peppers, onion, and cheese. Stir in mayonnaise until everything is evenly coated.
Chill for Best Flavor
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend.
Add Crunch Just Before Serving
Right before you serve, stir in the crushed Chili Cheese Fritos so they stay crisp.
Make Ahead & Storage Tips
Mix the salad base the night before, then chill it. Add Fritos right before serving to keep the crunch.
It tastes best on the same day you add the chips. Without the chips, it will keep in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Frito Corn Salad Recipe Card
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Frito Corn Salad – Ultimate Crunchy Summer Favorite
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
Sweet corn, colorful peppers, creamy dressing, and crunchy Chili Cheese Fritos come together for a quick, crowd-pleasing summer side dish.
Ingredients
3 cups fresh corn kernels (or canned/frozen, drained/thawed)
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
1/2 cup diced red onion
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup mayonnaise
1 bag (9.25 oz) Chili Cheese Fritos, crushed
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the corn, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, red onion, and cheddar cheese.
2. Stir in mayonnaise until all ingredients are coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
4. Just before serving, mix in crushed Chili Cheese Fritos to maintain crunch.
Notes
Make ahead by preparing the base and refrigerating, then add Fritos right before serving for maximum crunch.
Use plain or other flavored Fritos if preferred.
Swap mayonnaise for sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Summer Veggies Recipes
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 23mg
More Such Recipes
Try my Skillet Mexican Street Corn for a flavorful twist on summer sides.
For something fresh and vibrant, make Summer Corn Salad with Avocado.
Or keep it light and crunchy with Mexican Cucumber Salad with Sweet Corn.
If you want a warm side, check out Mexican Street Corn Casserole.
FAQ
What does corn salad have in it?
It usually has corn, peppers, onion, cheese, mayonnaise, and seasonings. This version adds Fritos for crunch.
What are the ingredients in Frito corn chips?
Classic Fritos have corn, corn oil, and salt. Chili Cheese Fritos also have seasoning for extra flavor.
What are the three ingredients in Fritos?
Corn, corn oil, and salt.
Is corn salad good for health?
Corn has fiber and nutrients, but this salad is more of a treat because of the mayo and chips. Enjoy it in moderation.
Final Thoughts
If you want a side dish that gets people talking and going back for seconds, Frito Corn Salad is your answer. It’s quick, colorful, and guaranteed to please a crowd. You can even share your own twist on this recipe over on my Pinterest or Facebook pages.
