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.

The Boat Shed Kitchen