Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with summer energy and irresistible flavors, this Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad is your new best friend. Imagine the smoky sweetness of grilled corn, the velvety richness of cream cheese and sour cream, and all those zesty, spicy notes you love about classic Mexican street corn — now intertwined with tender pasta and plenty of fresh herbs. It’s a celebration in every bite, perfect for potlucks, backyard barbeques, or even a cozy weeknight dinner. This recipe is my go-to when I want something both indulgent and full of character, and I just know you’re going to fall in love with it too.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad are simple, approachable, and vibrant, each bringing something special to the bowl. From creamy cheeses to juicy corn and bold spices, every component is chosen to create layers of flavor, color, and texture that truly shine.

• Cream Cheese (4 ounces, room temperature): Gives the base a luscious creaminess and brings all the salad flavors together.
• Sour Cream (1/3 cup): Adds tang and a silky texture to the dressing.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Lends richness while helping the dressing coat the pasta.
• Garlic (1–2 cloves, grated): Provides savory depth; grate it finely for the best flavor distribution.
• Fresh Chives (1 tablespoon, chopped): Offers a delicate oniony bite that brightens the salad.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for rounding out and amplifying all the flavors.
• Cotija or Feta Cheese (3/4 cup, crumbled): Either cheese gives a salty, tangy punch typical of street corn.
• Short Pasta (1 pound): Shapes like rotini, penne, or shells hold onto the creamy dressing.
• Romaine Lettuce (1 head, shredded): Brings a refreshing crunch and balances the richness.
• Grilled or Roasted Corn (2 cups, from 3–4 ears): The star of the show — charred kernels bring smoky sweetness.
• Fresh Basil (1/2 cup, torn): Adds a fragrant, fresh herbal note.
• Fresh Cilantro (1/2 cup, chopped): Essential for that authentic street corn flavor and vibrant color.
• Spicy Cheddar Cheese (1/2 cup, diced): Gives creamy heat and pops of bold cheddar flavor.
• Avocado (1, diced): Adds creamy, buttery texture and color.
• Salted Butter (4 tablespoons): Builds richness and carries the warm spices for the chili butter.
• Smoked Paprika (2 teaspoons): Adds depth and a gently smoky flavor.
• Chili Powder (2 tablespoons): Gives the dish its signature kick — use your favorite blend.
• Cayenne Pepper (1/2 to 2 teaspoons, to preference): Lets you adjust the heat exactly how you like it.
• Mayonnaise or Yogurt (1/4 cup): Creates a creamy, tangy finishing drizzle.
• Lime Juice (2 tablespoons): Cuts the richness with bright, zesty acidity.

How to Make Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

Begin by grabbing your largest salad bowl — you’ll be tossing everything in here, so give yourself plenty of space! Whip together the cream cheese, sour cream, olive oil, grated garlic, fresh chives, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper until you have a smooth, fluffy dressing. This luscious mixture is the secret to the salad’s signature creaminess, so don’t rush! Once it’s well blended, set it aside while you prep the rest. The bold, creamy base is what makes this pasta salad so craveable.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Combine Ingredients

Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook your chosen short pasta until just tender, following the package directions. Al dente is your friend here, so the salad never turns mushy. Drain well, then immediately toss the hot pasta right into your waiting bowl of dressing. This lets the pasta soak up all the luscious flavors. While the pasta is still warm, add in the shredded romaine, grilled or roasted corn, spicy cheddar cubes, fresh basil, cilantro, and creamy diced avocado. Toss everything to coat, letting each bite become a celebration of fresh veggies, creamy cheese, and smoky corn.

Step 3: Prepare the Chili Butter

Set a skillet over medium heat and melt the salted butter until it’s golden and foamy. Sprinkle in the chili powder, smoked paprika, a dash of cayenne, and another big pinch of salt. Let the spices sizzle for a minute, swirling often so they don’t burn. You’ll smell the aroma deepen as the mixture becomes an irresistible chili butter — this will give your Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad that authentic street corn flavor and a pop of spicy, warming heat. Once done, set it aside off the heat.

Step 4: Make the Lime Mayo Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise or yogurt with tangy fresh lime juice and a pinch of salt. This creamy, zesty drizzle brings a bright contrast to the earthy, spicy notes in the salad. Its coolness tempers the chili butter perfectly! You can make this ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Now the fun part: assembling! Serve your Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad either warm, room temperature, or chilled, depending on your mood and the weather outside. Right before serving, finish with a generous drizzle of lime mayo and spoonfuls of the aromatic chili butter. Letting it rest for 10–15 minutes allows all the layers to meld, but it’s dynamite straight away too. Now, dive in — every forkful is pure sunshine!

How to Serve Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad

Garnishes

Take your Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad over the top with festive garnishes. Sprinkle extra cotija or feta crumbles for a salty kick, or scatter on more chopped cilantro and basil for bursts of freshness. Thinly sliced jalapeños and extra lime wedges add brightness and custom heat. If you like crunch, a handful of crushed tortilla chips or fried onions gives a fun contrast.

Side Dishes

Because this dish is big on bold, creamy flavors, I love to pair it with simple grilled chicken, shrimp skewers, or crispy tofu. It’s also right at home alongside fresh fruit salads, sliced watermelon, or a platter of tomatoes and cucumbers. A simple green salad or bowl of chili-lime popcorn can round out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful party platter, serve your Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad in individual cups, mason jars, or lettuce cups for grab-and-go bites. You could turn it into a taco filling or top nachos for an unexpected but addictively delicious twist. Layer leftovers in a burrito bowl with black beans, salsa, and extra lime mayo for a hearty lunch. The colors and textures are practically begging for a festive, family-style presentation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got extras? Store any leftover Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, holding its flavor and creaminess surprisingly well. In fact, the flavors deepen, making next-day servings especially tasty. Just give it a gentle toss before serving to distribute the dressings and keep everything lively.

Freezing

While most pasta salads can become a little mushy when frozen, you can freeze this salad in a pinch — just be aware the texture may change, especially with the fresh herbs, lettuce, and avocado. If you plan ahead, freeze without the avocado and lettuce, then add them fresh after defrosting for the best flavor and crunch.

Reheating

Typically, Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad is served cold or at room temperature, but if you love a warm salad vibe, you can gently reheat portions in the microwave for 30-second intervals. Stir between each interval to make sure the dressing stays creamy and doesn’t separate. Add a fresh squeeze of lime or scatter more chives if needed to perk everything back up.

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap out the regular short pasta for your favorite certified gluten-free version. Many corn- or rice-based pastas hold up well and soak in the creamy dressing beautifully. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you’re set.

What if I can’t find cotija cheese?

No worries! Feta cheese is a fantastic substitute — it has a similar salty, crumbly character. For a milder version, try queso fresco, or use shredded Parmesan if that’s what you have on hand.

How spicy is this salad?

You control the heat! If you’re feeding a spicy-loving crowd, use the full amount of cayenne pepper; for a milder version, start with just half a teaspoon. You can also offer sliced jalapeños or a little hot sauce on the side for those who want extra fire.

Can I make this salad in advance?

Definitely — Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad actually gets better after a little time in the fridge. Just hold off adding the avocado until right before serving to keep things looking fresh and vibrant. Otherwise, mix it up to a day ahead for the best flavor meld.

What’s the best way to grill corn if I don’t have a grill?

No grill? No problem. You can roast corn right in the oven: spread the kernels on a baking sheet, drizzle with a little oil, and broil for 2–3 minutes until lightly charred. Or use a hot cast-iron skillet for beautiful caramelization.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to impress at your next gathering — or just treat yourself to something seriously delicious — give Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad a try. With its creamy textures, bold spices, and punchy flavors, it’s a true crowd-pleaser that always disappears fast. I hope it becomes your go-to summer salad, just like it has in my kitchen!

Print