Creamy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is the kind of recipe that instantly becomes a crowd favorite. Inspired by the bold flavors of classic Mexican elote, this pasta salad combines smoky charred corn, creamy dressing, tangy lime, and salty cheese into one irresistible bowl. It’s vibrant, comforting, and just spicy enough to keep everyone coming back for seconds.

This dish brings together two beloved comfort foods—creamy pasta salad and Mexican street corn—and transforms them into something fresh, exciting, and perfect for warm-weather gatherings. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, a family potluck, a picnic, or just want an easy weeknight side dish with personality, this recipe checks every box.

What makes Creamy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad so special is the balance of textures and flavors. Tender pasta provides the perfect base, while sweet corn adds pops of freshness. The creamy dressing wraps everything together with richness, while lime juice cuts through the creaminess to keep the dish light and refreshing. Fresh herbs and spices add complexity without overpowering the dish.

Unlike traditional mayo-heavy pasta salads, this version feels bright and modern. It’s indulgent but not heavy, bold but approachable. Best of all, it can be made ahead, travels well, and tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld together.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This recipe is designed to be both easy and impressive. It comes together with simple ingredients, yet tastes like something you’d order from a trendy café or food truck.

It’s perfect for entertaining and feeds a crowd easily
Can be served as a side dish or a light main course
Packed with bold Mexican-inspired flavors
Easily customizable for spice level and dietary needs
Delicious served chilled or at cool room temperature

From casual cookouts to festive celebrations, this pasta salad fits right in while standing out from the usual options.

Ingredients

Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Each component plays an important role in achieving the signature taste of Creamy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.

Short pasta (rotini, fusilli, or shells)
Corn kernels (fresh grilled, roasted, or canned and drained)
Mayonnaise
Sour cream
Fresh lime juice
Garlic, finely minced
Chili powder
Smoked paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Cotija cheese, crumbled
Fresh cilantro, finely chopped
Optional: jalapeño, green onions, or hot sauce for extra heat

Instructions

Cook the pasta in a large pot of well-salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse briefly with cool water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
If using fresh corn, grill or roast it until lightly charred, then cut the kernels from the cob. Allow the corn to cool.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
Add the cooled pasta to the bowl, followed by the corn kernels. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated in the dressing.
Fold in crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro, reserving a small amount of each for garnish.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, lime juice, or spice as desired.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to fully develop.
Garnish with extra cotija cheese, cilantro, and a light sprinkle of chili powder just before serving.

The Inspiration Behind Mexican Street Corn

Mexican street corn, also known as elote, is traditionally served on the cob and coated with creamy sauce, lime, chili powder, and cheese. It’s a beloved street food across Mexico, known for its bold flavor and satisfying richness.

This pasta salad takes the soul of elote and reimagines it in a format that’s easier to serve and share. By removing the corn from the cob and pairing it with pasta, the flavors become more accessible while still honoring the original inspiration.

Tips for the Best Creamy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Let the pasta cool completely before mixing to avoid melting the dressing.
Char the corn if possible—grilling adds smoky depth that elevates the dish.
Don’t overdress initially; the pasta will absorb sauce as it rests.
Use fresh lime juice for brightness and balance.
Chill before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is incredibly flexible, making it easy to adapt based on preference or dietary needs.

Protein Add-Ins:
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans turn this side dish into a complete meal.

Spicy Version:
Add diced jalapeños, chipotle powder, or hot sauce for extra heat.

Lighter Option:
Use Greek yogurt in place of some of the mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.

Vegan Version:
Swap dairy-free mayo and plant-based cheese alternatives.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, tacos, burgers, and roasted vegetables. It’s also perfect as a standalone lunch served with tortilla chips or fresh avocado slices.

For parties, serve it in a large bowl with a garnish bar—extra cheese, lime wedges, and chili powder let guests customize their own bowl.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This pasta salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Stir gently before serving and refresh with a squeeze of lime or a spoonful of dressing if needed.

Leftovers keep well for up to three days, making it ideal for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is the perfect example of comfort food done right. It’s creamy without being heavy, bold without being overwhelming, and endlessly adaptable. Once you try it, it’s guaranteed to earn a permanent place in your recipe rotation.

Creamy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

A creamy, zesty pasta salad inspired by Mexican street corn with charred corn, lime, spices, and cheese.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 15

Total Time 35

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Autumn

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes