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Crack Corn Salad Recipe

4.8 from 70 reviews

Crack Corn Salad is the ultimate creamy, savory, and slightly sweet summer side dish that’s easy to make and irresistibly addictive. Featuring a base of cooked corn combined with mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch seasoning, sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions, this chilled salad offers a perfect blend of textures and flavors. It’s ideal for BBQs, potlucks, picnics, and any warm-weather gathering where convenience and indulgence meet.

Ingredients

Scale

Dressing

  • 1½ cups mayonnaise
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 (1-oz) packet ranch dressing mix
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika

Main Ingredients

  • 4 cups cooked corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup cooked, chopped bacon
  • 3 green onions, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Make the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika until creamy and smooth, forming a flavorful base for the salad.
  2. Combine the ingredients: Add the cooked corn kernels, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cooked bacon, and chopped green onions into the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until well combined and evenly coated.
  3. Chill the salad: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste and texture of the salad.
  4. Adjust seasoning and serve: Before serving, taste the salad and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Serve chilled, ideal as a refreshing side dish for summer meals.

Notes

  • Use fresh corn in season for the best sweetness, but frozen or canned works well too.
  • Substitute Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream for a lighter version.
  • For a vegetarian option, omit bacon or use a plant-based alternative.
  • Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Fold in fresh ingredients like diced red bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or avocado just before serving to prevent sogginess.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
  • Stir well before serving if chilled for a long time, as dressing may settle.

Keywords: Crack Corn Salad, Summer Salad, Corn Salad, Creamy Corn Salad, BBQ Side Dish, Potluck Salad, Bacon Corn Salad, Ranch Dressing Salad