This Frito Corn Salad is a crowd-pleasing side dish made with sweet corn, black beans, crunchy bell pepper, shredded cheddar, tangy Rotel, and crispy Fritos, all tossed in a creamy, zesty homemade dressing. Ready in just 5 minutes, it’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or any casual gathering where you want something bold, flavorful, and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re craving a side dish that combines fresh, vibrant flavors with irresistible crunch, this Frito Corn Salad is a must-try. The sweetness of corn, hearty black beans, colorful bell peppers, and sharp cheddar cheese, all tossed in a creamy dressing, create a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. The Fritos, added just before serving, offer the perfect crispy finish to the dish, making it a showstopper at any event. Quick to prepare and impossible to resist, this recipe will be the hit of your next gathering.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 (15-ounce) cans sweet corn, drained

• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained

• 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel, drained

• 1 bell pepper, diced (red, green, or yellow)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 (9.25-ounce) bag Fritos

For the Dressing:

• 2/3 cup sour cream

• 1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground cumin until smooth and well combined.

2. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the drained sweet corn, black beans, Rotel, diced bell pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until all ingredients are evenly mixed.

3. Add the Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and gently fold everything together, ensuring the dressing coats every piece.

4. Fold in the Fritos: Just before serving, add the Fritos and carefully fold them into the salad to maintain their crunch. Be gentle to avoid breaking up the chips too much.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or use hot Rotel for an extra kick.

• Dairy-Free: Replace the sour cream with a plant-based alternative and skip the cheese or use dairy-free cheese.

• Veggie Twist: Try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or swap the bell pepper with diced cucumbers for a refreshing twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the salad and dressing (without the Fritos) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended for this salad as the chips and dairy-based dressing may not hold up well.

• Reheating: This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature. If you have leftovers, simply stir well and add fresh Fritos for crunch before serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh or frozen corn instead of canned?

Yes, fresh grilled or boiled corn adds great flavor. Frozen corn works too, but be sure to thaw and drain it before using.

How can I prevent the Fritos from getting soggy?

Add the Fritos right before serving. Mixing them in ahead of time will cause them to lose their crunch.

Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the sour cream with a plant-based alternative and skip the cheese or use dairy-free cheese.

How can I make the salad spicier?

You can use hot Rotel, add fresh jalapeños, or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the dressing for heat.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad and dressing ahead of time, but don’t add the Fritos until just before serving to maintain their crunch.

How do I keep the Fritos crunchy?

The key is to add them right before serving, so they stay crunchy rather than becoming soggy.

Can I double or halve this recipe?

Yes, you can adjust the ingredients to suit your needs. Just make sure to keep the Fritos ratio consistent.

How long will this salad last in the fridge?

Without the Fritos, it will last up to 2 days in the fridge.

Can I use other types of chips instead of Fritos?

While Fritos are traditional for their crunch, you can try other chips like tortilla chips or even pita chips, though the flavor may vary.

Is there a way to make the salad less creamy?

You can reduce the amount of sour cream and add more olive oil for a lighter, less creamy dressing.

Conclusion

The Frito Corn Salad Recipe is a perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and flavorful elements that are sure to please a crowd. With its easy preparation and bold taste, it’s a fantastic addition to any meal, whether you’re at a casual get-together or a festive barbecue. This dish brings together familiar ingredients in a fun, creative way that everyone will love. Don’t forget the Fritos—those crispy chips are what make this salad a true standout!