Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad (Creamy, Bold, and Crowd-Pleasing)
If you love the bold, tangy flavors of Mexican street corn, also known as elote, this Mexican street corn pasta salad is about to become your new favorite side dish. It takes everything you love about classic street corn — charred corn, creamy sauce, citrusy brightness, and a hint of spice — and turns it into a hearty, irresistible pasta salad that’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, and summer gatherings.
This salad is creamy without being heavy, vibrant without being overpowering, and packed with texture in every bite. Tender pasta, smoky corn, salty cheese, fresh herbs, and a zesty dressing come together in a dish that feels indulgent yet balanced. Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on its own, it’s the kind of recipe people ask for again and again.
Why Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Is So Popular
The popularity of elote pasta salad comes down to flavor layering. Sweet corn pairs beautifully with tangy lime, creamy dressing, and salty cheese. Adding pasta turns a beloved street food flavor profile into a filling, shareable dish that works for any occasion.
Unlike traditional pasta salads that rely heavily on mayonnaise alone, this recipe blends mayonnaise with sour cream and lime juice for a smoother, brighter dressing. Chili powder and garlic add warmth and depth, while cilantro brings freshness that keeps the salad from feeling too rich.
Ingredients
- Short pasta (rotini, penne, or shells)
- Corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- Olive oil
- Mayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Lime juice
- Garlic, minced
- Chili powder
- Smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Cotija cheese, crumbled
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add corn and cook until lightly charred, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add cooked pasta and charred corn to the bowl.
- Toss gently until pasta is fully coated in dressing.
- Fold in cotija cheese and chopped cilantro.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, lime juice, or chili powder if needed.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook pasta until al dente and cool.
- Char corn in skillet until lightly browned.
- Whisk dressing ingredients until smooth.
- Toss pasta and corn with dressing.
- Fold in cheese and cilantro; chill before serving.
Notes
Creamy Texture with Bold Flavor
What sets this mexican corn pasta salad apart is its perfectly balanced dressing. The mayonnaise provides richness, the sour cream adds tang, and the lime juice keeps everything bright and fresh. Chili powder delivers gentle heat without overwhelming the dish, while cotija cheese adds a salty finish that ties everything together.
The charred corn is essential. Cooking it until lightly blistered enhances its sweetness and gives the salad that unmistakable street-corn flavor.
Tips for the Best Street Corn Pasta Salad
Char the corn well
Those golden-brown spots add smoky depth and prevent blandness.
Use short pasta shapes
They hold the creamy dressing better than long noodles.
Don’t overdress
Add dressing gradually to keep the salad creamy, not heavy.
Chill before serving
Resting time allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Easy Variations
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeño or cayenne
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp
- Extra Veggies: Mix in red onion or bell peppers
- Cheese Swap: Use feta if cotija isn’t available
What to Serve with Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
This salad pairs perfectly with grilled and casual dishes:
- Grilled chicken or steak
- Burgers or hot dogs
- BBQ ribs
- Tacos or quesadillas
It also works beautifully as a standalone lunch or picnic dish.
Make-Ahead and Storage
This creamy corn pasta salad is ideal for preparing in advance.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days
- Make Ahead: Prepare the day before and stir before serving
- Not Freezer-Friendly: Creamy dressing doesn’t thaw well
A Modern Take on Elote
Mexican street corn has long been a beloved street food, celebrated for its bold flavors and simple ingredients. This pasta salad version keeps the spirit of elote alive while making it easier to serve to a crowd — no skewers required.
Final Thoughts
This Mexican street corn pasta salad is creamy, vibrant, and bursting with flavor. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to stand out at any gathering. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something bold and comforting, this recipe delivers every single time.
