Name: Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 4 ounces room temperature cream cheese; 1/3 cup sour cream; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1-2 grated garlic cloves; 1 tablespoon fresh chives (chopped); Salt and pepper to taste; 3/4 cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese; 1 pound of short pasta; 1 head romaine lettuce (shredded); 2 cups grilled or roasted corn (from 3-4 fresh ears); 1/2 cup fresh basil (torn); 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped); 1/2 cup spicy cheddar cheese (diced); 1 avocado (diced); 4 tablespoons salted butter; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1/2 to 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (adjust to preference); 1/4 cup mayonnaise or yogurt; 2 tablespoons lime juice

Jump to Recipe

If you’re dreaming of a dish that fuses the bold, zippy flavors of Mexican street corn with the comfort of a creamy pasta salad, look no further than this Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad. This recipe captures all the crave-worthy charred corn flavor, zingy lime, and cooling dairy—then tosses them with tender pasta, creamy cheeses, and a hint of spice. It’s hearty enough to star at your next cookout yet totally portable for picnics, and each bite is a celebration of color and texture you’ll want to make again and again.

Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad plays a starring role, contributing either a punch of flavor, a pop of freshness, or a creamy element that pulls everything together. Simple, accessible, but outrageously delicious—let’s break down what you’ll need for pasta salad greatness.

Cream cheese (4 ounces, room temperature): Gives the salad its signature creamy, tangy base—make sure it’s soft for easy mixing.
Sour cream (1/3 cup): Adds an extra level of richness and a bit of tang that rounds out the dressing.
Extra virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons): Lends smoothness and a fruity note to the dressing.
Garlic (1-2 cloves, grated): Just enough to bring a gentle bite without overpowering the other flavors.
Fresh chives (1 tablespoon, chopped): Brightens the dish and adds a subtle oniony flavor.
Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing flavors—don’t be shy!
Cotija or feta cheese (3/4 cup, crumbled): Brings a salty, crumbly texture that mimics street corn’s best topping.
Short pasta (1 pound): Any bite-sized shape works—think rotini, penne, or shells to hold the creamy sauce.
Romaine lettuce (1 head, shredded): Adds crunch and a burst of green freshness.
Grilled or roasted corn (2 cups, from 3-4 ears): Charred corn is a must for that authentic street corn vibe—sweet, smoky, and juicy.
Fresh basil (1/2 cup, torn): Herbaceous and aromatic, it layers in summer flavor.
Fresh cilantro (1/2 cup, chopped): A classic street corn herb—refreshing and so fragrant.
Spicy cheddar cheese (1/2 cup, diced): A pop of heat and sharpness that lifts the salad’s richness.
Avocado (1, diced): Creamy, cooling, and ultra-satisfying in every forkful.
Salted butter (4 tablespoons): Creates a decadent base for the smoky chili drizzle.
Smoked paprika (2 teaspoons): Brings deep, smoky undertones that make the chili butter irresistible.
Chili powder (2 tablespoons): Adds color and a gentle burn that warms up the dressing.
Cayenne pepper (1/2 to 2 teaspoons, to taste): Dial up or down for your ideal level of spice.
Mayonnaise or yogurt (1/4 cup): Becomes a tangy, luscious drizzle—choose your favorite!
Lime juice (2 tablespoons): Wakes up the whole salad with fresh citrus zing.

How to Make Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Dressing

Start by grabbing your largest salad bowl and combining the room temperature cream cheese, sour cream, extra virgin olive oil, grated garlic, fresh chives, salt, pepper, and crumbled cotija or feta cheese. Mix it all together until it’s velvety smooth. This base is the heart of our Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad, so be generous—make sure everything is well blended to coat the pasta later.

Step 2: Cook Pasta & Combine Salad

Cook your favorite short pasta shape in salted boiling water until it’s perfectly al dente. Drain it, but don’t let it cool—hot pasta is key! Toss the warm noodles right into the bowl with your creamy cheese dressing. Now, pile on the shredded romaine, grilled (or roasted) corn, torn basil, chopped cilantro, spicy cheddar, and avocado. Gently toss until every piece is kissed with creaminess and Vermont-level vibrancy.

Step 3: Make the Chili Butter

In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the salted butter, waiting until it turns beautifully golden. Stir in smoked paprika, chili powder, your chosen amount of cayenne pepper, and a generous pinch of salt. Let the spices bloom and sizzle for about one minute; you’ll smell that smoky-rich aroma immediately. Remove from heat and set aside—this chili butter is the flavor-packed secret weapon of Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad.

Step 4: Make the Lime Mayo Dressing

In a mini bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise or yogurt, fresh lime juice, and a pinch of salt. This takes less than a minute but transforms the whole salad with a burst of brightness and coolness that counters the spicy chili butter.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad warm, room temperature, or cold—whatever calls to you in the moment! Drizzle generously with the Lime Mayo Dressing and crown each portion with a spoonful of that fragrant Chili Butter. If you have time, let the salad rest for a bit so the flavors can meld; it only gets better with a little patience.

How to Serve Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad

Garnishes

Bring out the best of this already vibrant dish with fresh bursts of flavor and color: consider scattering extra cotija or feta, snipped chives, more torn basil, or even thinly sliced jalapeños on top. A handful of crushed tortilla chips or some extra fresh corn also never hurts for texture. The right garnish makes your Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad pop on the plate and the palate.

Side Dishes

This pasta salad shines alongside grilled meats like steak, chicken, or pork, but is equally at home with light sides such as watermelon wedges, a cool cucumber salad, or classic chips and guac. The Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad can even be the main event for a fun vegetarian dinner, paired with a zesty soup or tangy slaw.

Creative Ways to Present

Jazz up your presentation by serving Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad in individual Mason jars for easy picnicking or potlucks. For a party, spoon it into lettuce cups or top crostini for an appetizer twist. Mini bowls, small taco shells, or even as a filling in bell peppers—give your pasta salad the star treatment and watch it become the talk of your gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have extra Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad, simply cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making leftovers especially satisfying—just give it a gentle stir before serving.

Freezing

Because of the creamy cheeses and fresh herbs, this dish isn’t ideal for freezing—the textures can become grainy once thawed. For best results, enjoy it fresh or from the fridge.

Reheating

If you prefer your Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad warmed up, gently microwave in 15-20 second bursts, stirring in between. Just be careful not to overheat, or the cheeses may separate. You can also let it come to room temperature naturally—either way, the flavors shine.

FAQs

Can I use frozen or canned corn instead of fresh?

Absolutely! While fresh, grilled corn adds the most flavor, you can use well-drained canned corn or thawed frozen corn in a pinch. Just give it a quick sauté in a dry pan to mimic that charred, roasted finish that sets Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad apart.

What pasta shape works best?

Short shapes like rotini, penne, or shells are best because their nooks and ridges grab the creamy dressing and all those juicy bits. Feel free to use gluten-free pasta if you prefer—this recipe is wonderfully adaptable.

How spicy is this dish?

You have full control over the heat. Start with less cayenne pepper and taste as you go, or use a mild cheddar instead of spicy. Likewise, dial up the chili powder for extra kick or go light for a milder Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad.

Is there a lighter version?

Definitely! Swap in Greek yogurt for mayonnaise or sour cream, use reduced-fat cheeses, and load up on extra salad greens. The flavor stays incredible while keeping things on the lighter side.

Can I make Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad the night before?

Yes, it’s a great make-ahead option! Just wait to add the avocado and drizzle toppings until you’re ready to serve, so everything stays fresh and vibrant. The flavors will only get better overnight.

Final Thoughts

If you love bold flavor, creamy dressing, and summer in every bite, you can’t go wrong with Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad. Give it a spin for your next gathering or weeknight dinner—you’ll be hooked from the very first forkful. Enjoy making (and sharing) this vibrant, feel-good favorite!

Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 22 reviews

Author: Ava
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining creamy cheese dressing, grilled corn, fresh herbs, and a zesty chili-lime butter. This pasta salad is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a side dish for your favorite grilled dishes.

Instructions

Prepare the Creamy Cheese Dressing: In a large salad bowl, combine room temperature cream cheese, sour cream, extra virgin olive oil, grated garlic, chopped fresh chives, salt, pepper, and crumbled cotija or feta cheese. Mix well.
Cook Pasta & Combine Salad: Cook short pasta until al dente. Drain immediately and toss the hot pasta with the prepared dressing in the salad bowl. Add shredded romaine lettuce, grilled or roasted corn, torn fresh basil, chopped fresh cilantro, diced spicy cheddar cheese, and diced avocado. Toss everything thoroughly to combine.
Make the Chili Butter: In a skillet over medium heat, melt salted butter until golden. Stir in smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper (adjust to preference), and a pinch of salt. Cook for one minute to allow spices to bloom, then remove from heat.
Make the Lime Mayo Dressing: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise (or yogurt) with fresh lime juice and a pinch of salt until well combined.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the pasta salad warm or cold, as preferred. Drizzle with the Lime Mayo Dressing and top with a generous spoonful of the Chili Butter. For deeper flavors, let the salad sit for a bit before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad, Side Dish
Method: Grilling, Roasting, Mixing
Cuisine: Fusion