This Frito Corn Salad is the ultimate crowd-pleaser – crunchy, creamy, and just the right amount of kick.
It’s the perfect mix of sweet corn, black beans, juicy Rotel tomatoes, cheese, and that unmistakable Fritos crunch, all tied together with a zesty homemade dressing.
Whether you’re hosting a cookout or need a fast potluck side, this dish is always a hit.
Why I Love This Recipe
So easy to make – just toss and mix; no cooking required!
Sweet, savory, and spicy in one bite
Perfect for parties, potlucks, or game day
Customizable to your taste – add more spice, cheese, or veggies
It disappears fast! People always ask for the recipe
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Sweet corn – canned for convenience, but fresh or frozen work too
Black beans – adds a hearty touch
Rotel – brings in bold tomato flavor with a hint of green chilies
Bell pepper – for fresh crunch and color
Shredded cheddar – creamy, cheesy goodness
Fritos – the star of the show; add right before serving
Pro Tips Before You Start
Drain everything well to avoid a watery salad
Stir in Fritos last so they stay crunchy
Make ahead? Mix everything except Fritos and add them just before serving
Customize the heat – use spicy Rotel or add diced jalapeños
Double it for larger gatherings – this salad goes fast!
How to Make Frito Corn Salad
Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, olive oil, salt
Pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the drained corn, black beans
Rotel, diced bell pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese.
Toss everything together to combine.
Step 3: Add the Dressing
Pour the prepared dressing over the corn mixture.
Gently stir until everything is evenly coated and creamy.
Step 4: Add Fritos Just Before Serving
Add the Fritos to the salad right before serving.
Fold them in gently so they stay intact and crispy.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
For extra flavor and crunch, garnish with more Fritos, a sprinkle of cheddar, or chopped cilantro if desired.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
What to Serve It With
Grilled meats like burgers, ribs, or chicken
As a dip with tortilla chips
Alongside tacos or burritos
With BBQ sandwiches or pulled pork
As a snack or side at parties
Variations & Add-Ins
Add jalapeños for heat
Mix in avocado for creaminess
Use pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese
Swap Fritos for Doritos or tortilla chips
Add green onions or red onion for more bite
Top with fresh lime juice for a zesty twist
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days (Fritos will soften)
Make ahead: Mix all ingredients except the Fritos.
Add chips just before serving.
Refreshing leftovers: Add a handful of fresh Fritos to revive the crunch before eating
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Mix everything but the Fritos.
Add them just before serving to keep them crunchy.
What if I don’t have Rotel?
You can use canned diced tomatoes and add a bit of chopped green chili or jalapeños.
Can I use frozen or fresh corn instead of canned?
Absolutely. Just cook and cool the corn first.
About 3 cups will replace 2 cans.
How spicy is this salad?
It’s mild as written, but you can increase the spice with hot Rotel or diced jalapeños.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar adds a nice bite, but feel free to use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a cheese blend.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes – it will lighten up the dressing and add a bit of tang.
Do leftovers stay crispy?
Only for a few hours.
To keep things crispy, store the salad and Fritos separately.
Final Thoughts
This Frito Corn Salad is an instant favorite – bold, creamy, crunchy, and just the right balance of flavors.
It’s a guaranteed hit for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just need a quick and satisfying side dish.
Every bite bursts with flavor and fun.
Creamy Frito Corn Salad
Ingredients
Method
- In a small bowl, combine all dressing ingredients. Whisk until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine corn, beans, Rotel, bell pepper, and cheese.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and mix gently.
- Just before serving, fold in Fritos to keep them crispy.
- Serve immediately with extra toppings if desired.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/creamy-frito-corn-salad/
Notes
- For extra flavor, use chili cheese or spicy Fritos.
- Want it spicier? Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the dressing.
- If making ahead, prep the salad and dressing separately, then mix and add Fritos just before serving.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.