Frito Corn Salad

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If you’re looking for that dish—the one that vanishes first at every cookout, potluck, or game day—this Frito Corn Salad is it. It’s bold, creamy, crunchy, and totally irresistible. One bite, and you’ll see why folks always come back for seconds (and ask for the recipe!). It makes a great dip, too!

Corn Salad with Fritos in a textured bowl.

There’s one thing about us Southerners—we sure know how to turn just about anything into a salad. And this? This is one of those combos you might look at sideways at first, like “wait, what now?” But trust me, it just works. Sweet corn, creamy dressing, bold cheese, and crunchy chili cheese Fritos come together in the most unexpectedly perfect way.

It’s the kind of dish that pulls double duty—it’s right at home next to burgers and BBQ as a side, but it also scoops up beautifully as a dip. I’ve served it both ways, and let me tell you, not a bite ever comes back. It’s that good.

Nikki’s Recipe Rundown

Taste: Creamy, savory, with a kick of spice and a little sweetness from the corn.
Texture: Crunchy from the salty Frito corn chips, creamy, and cheesy—every bite’s a party.
Ease: Easy enough to throw together at the last minute.
Pros: Perfect for potlucks, super versatile (great as a dip or salad), and always a crowd-pleaser.
Considerations: Add the chips just before serving or on the side so they stay crispy.
Recipe Worthy: Absolutely—you’ll find yourself making this all year long.

Ingredients Needed for Corn Salad with Fritos

A labeled image of ingredients needed to make Frito corn salad.

Corn: Use good-quality canned corn. I use one Fiesta or Mexican blend, which adds great flavor and color. One can of sweet corn to balance it out.
Cheese: Colby Jack is mellow and melty, but Pepper Jack gives a little heat. You can use shredded sharp cheddar, too!
Red Onion: Adds a nice crunch and zip—don’t skip it.
Mayo & Sour Cream: Creamy combo that binds everything together.
Taco Seasoning: Brings in that Tex-Mex punch. Use your favorite or homemade taco seasoning.
Fritos: Chili Cheese Fritos is my top pick here for a flavor bomb, but BBQ Fritos or Plain Fritos are great too!
Cilantro: Optional, but adds a fresh finish if you love it.

Variations and Substitutions

Can’t find Mexican Corn or Fiesta Corn (or if you want to use that canned corn in the pantry): Stir in diced red bell or green bell peppers (1/3 cup) and green chiles (4 ounces or to taste) if you don’t have Fiesta corn.
Want more spice? Add green chiles, jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce.
Mix in cream cheese for a thicker dip. You can substitute the cream cheese for the sour cream or just add it in for a more creamy texture.
Swap Chips: Sub the Fritos for Doritos, Tostitos, or another crunchy chip you love.

How To Make Easy Frito Corn Salad Recipe

✱ Be sure to see the recipe card below for exact ingredients and full recipe instructions!

Step 1: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the mayo, sour cream, and taco seasoning until smooth and combined.

A side-by-side image of ingredients with the mayo, sour cream and taco seasoning added to a bowl and stirred.

Step 2: Add the Flavor

Toss in the drained corn, red onion, shredded cheese, and chopped cilantro. Give it a good stir so everything’s coated in that creamy goodness.

Corn, red onion, cheese, and cilantro added and stirred

Step 3: Add Fritos and Serve

Add in your crushed Fritos and give it a gentle mix.

TIP: If you’re prepping ahead, you can wait and add the chips just before serving so they stay nice and crunchy. If you are serving as a dip, leave the chips on the side.

Garnish with jalapeños and a little extra cilantro for some color and kick.

A corn salad with a creamy dressing in a bowl topped with Fritos.

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Recipe Tips

Chill the salad base before adding chips to keep everything fresh.
Serve chips on the side if making ahead—no one wants soggy Fritos.
Double the recipe for a crowd, or halve it for a small gathering.
Taste and tweak—don’t be afraid to add a bit more mayo or seasoning if needed.

An open bag of fritos with corn salad in a bowl on a wooden board.

Recipe FAQs

What kind of corn works best?

Canned corn is quick and easy—just drain it well. Frozen corn works too; thaw and drain before using. If it’s corn season, cooked fresh-off-the-cob is fantastic.

Can I use a different type of chip?

Absolutely. While Chili Cheese Fritos are a favorite, BBQ or plain Fritos work well too. Some folks even use tortilla chips or Doritos for a twist.

Is this salad spicy?

Not as written, but you can add heat with diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne, or spicy Fritos. Adjust to your taste. The brand of Fiesta corn may vary in heat level.

A hand dipping a chip into the taco corn dip.

How to Store Corn Salad with Fritos

Make Ahead: You can mix the base (everything but the Fritos) a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge—just use an airtight container or cover your mixing bowl tightly with plastic wrap.

Storage: Leftovers? Pop them in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Just keep in mind the chips will soften a bit. (best to store without chips)

Freezer: Not recommended—the dairy items don’t freeze well.

What to Serve Fritos Corn Salad?

Frito Corn Salad is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains. Its creamy, crunchy, and slightly spicy profile complements grilled meats like steaks, ribs, or chicken. It also serves as a delicious side for BBQ brisket sandwiches, tacos, or even burgers.

This is a nice change from a traditional salad, and a great addition to your backyard barbecue with sides like Southern potato salad, macaroni salad, or coleslaw.

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Frito Corn Salad

Nikki’s Recipe Rundown

Ingredients Needed for Corn Salad with Fritos

Variations and Substitutions