Short description
I’m sharing a fun twist on a classic potluck favorite: a simple yet indulgent Frito Corn Salad that mixes sweet corn, peppers, onions, creamy mayo, cheese, and crunchy Fritos chips. It’s perfect for casual gatherings or game-day snacking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe delivers both creamy comfort and satisfying crunch with minimal effort. It’s colorful, bold, and surprisingly versatile—great served as a dip or side dish. The flavor combo of corn, peppers, cheese, and Fritos always scores big at BBQs and casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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2 (15 oz) cans whole kernel corn, drained
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup mayonnaise
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1 cup green pepper, chopped
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½ cup red onion, finely chopped
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1 (10 oz) bag crushed Fritos corn chips (regular or chili-cheese)
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Fritos Scoops for serving (optional)
Directions
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In a large bowl, I mix the drained corn, shredded cheese, mayo, chopped green pepper, and red onion until everything is coated and evenly combined.
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I refrigerate the mixture for at least 10 minutes to let the flavors meld and chill nicely.
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Just before serving, I gently fold in the crushed Fritos to keep them crisp and crunchy.
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I serve it in a bowl alongside Fritos Scoops for easy dipping—or from a spoon if I’m keeping it casual!
Servings and timing
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Servings: approximately 8
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Chill time: at least 10 minutes
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Total time: about 10–15 minutes
Variations
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I’ve swapped mayo for sour cream or softened cream cheese, and it’s still creamy and delicious.
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I sometimes use chili-cheese Fritos or add taco seasoning for a spicy kick.
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When I want a fresher taste, I fold in diced avocado and a squeeze of lime—just before serving to keep it from getting soggy.
Storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it from getting soggy, I only add Fritos right before serving. I don’t recommend reheating this dish—it’s meant to be enjoyed cold and crunchy.
FAQs
What mayo can I use?
I use regular mayo, but light mayo or Miracle Whip works too, depending on what flavor I’m going for.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, I often mix everything except the Fritos a day ahead and store it in the fridge. I stir in the chips just before serving.
Can I use fresh or frozen corn instead of canned?
Absolutely. Fresh (blanched) corn adds brightness, and thawed frozen corn works just as well. I just make sure to drain off any excess moisture.
How do I make it spicy?
I like to add chili-cheese Fritos, taco seasoning, hot sauce, or chopped jalapeños when I want some heat.
How many chips should I add?
I usually crush and mix in an entire 10 oz bag of Fritos, but I adjust to taste and sometimes keep extra for topping individual servings.
Conclusion
This Frito Corn Salad has become a go-to for quick entertaining—it’s vibrant, indulgent, and easy to whip up at the last minute. I love how it balances creamy, sweet, colorful, and crunchy all in one bowl. When I’m hosting, this always disappears fast. Give it a try—it might just become a new favorite too!
Print
Frito Corn Salad
- Total Time: 10–15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Frito Corn Salad is a creamy, crunchy, and colorful potluck favorite made with sweet corn, peppers, cheese, mayo, and crushed Fritos. It’s perfect as a dip or side for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
2 (15 oz) cans whole kernel corn, drained
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup green pepper, chopped
½ cup red onion, finely chopped
1 (10 oz) bag crushed Fritos corn chips (regular or chili-cheese)
Fritos Scoops for serving (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the drained corn, shredded cheese, mayo, chopped green pepper, and red onion until well combined.
- Refrigerate the mixture for at least 10 minutes to chill and let flavors meld.
- Just before serving, gently fold in the crushed Fritos to maintain crunch.
- Serve in a bowl with Fritos Scoops for dipping or enjoy with a spoon.
Notes
- Use sour cream or cream cheese instead of mayo for a different creamy base.
- Try chili-cheese Fritos or taco seasoning for a spicier version.
- Add diced avocado and lime juice for freshness—just before serving.
- Only add Fritos right before serving to avoid sogginess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of salad
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg