Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

I absolutely love sharing this Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe because it’s one of those dishes that feels both fresh and comforting at the same time. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just looking to brighten up a weeknight dinner, this salad ticks all the boxes. The creamy dressing combined with smoky chili butter gives it a seriously addictive flavor that I just can’t get enough of.

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how the textures came together — the pasta, crunchy romaine, sweet grilled corn, and creamy avocado. You’ll find that the blend of fresh herbs and cheeses adds so much personality. Plus, the best part? It’s super simple to whip up and perfect for making ahead, which is why it’s become a go-to in my kitchen.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients combine creamy, smoky, and fresh elements that complement each other beautifully in this Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe. I recommend using fresh, high-quality corn and cheese for the best results.

• Cream cheese: Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Sour cream: Adds tang and creaminess to the dressing.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Use a good quality one for richness.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly grated garlic brings just the right kick.
• Fresh chives: These provide a delicate onion flavor that brightens the dressing.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing the flavors.
• Cotija or feta cheese: Crumbled; choose your favorite for that salty touch.
• Short pasta: I like using penne or rigatoni—the ridges hold the dressing well.
• Romaine lettuce: Shredded; offers crispy crunch.
• Grilled or roasted corn: Fresh corn from 3-4 ears works best for sweetness.
• Fresh basil: Torn; adds sweet herbal notes.
• Fresh cilantro: Chopped; brings a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Spicy cheddar cheese: Diced for a little heat and texture contrast.
• Avocado: Diced; creamy and indulgent addition.
• Salted butter: For making the chili butter, adds richness.
• Smoked paprika: Its smokiness deepens the chili butter flavor.
• Chili powder: Provides warmth without overwhelming heat.
• Cayenne pepper: Adjust to your preferred spice level.
• Mayonnaise or yogurt: For the lime mayo dressing, choose based on your preference for creaminess or tang.
• Lime juice: Freshly squeezed for bright, zesty notes.

Variations

I love making this Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe my own by switching up herbs or cheeses depending on the season or what’s in the fridge. Feel free to play around with the spice levels to suit your taste—this salad is super forgiving!

• Vegetarian variation: Skip the cheddar cheese or swap with a plant-based alternative for a fully vegetarian dish.
• Extra protein: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier main course version.
• Herb swaps: Try parsley or mint in place of basil or cilantro for a fresh twist.
• Mild spice option: Reduce or omit cayenne pepper if you prefer a gentler heat.

How to Make Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Whip up the Creamy Cheese Dressing

This is where the magic starts. In a large salad bowl, use a spatula or a hand mixer to combine room temperature cream cheese, sour cream, olive oil, grated garlic, chopped chives, salt, pepper, and crumbled cotija or feta cheese. I like to mix it until it’s smooth and fluffy because it coats the pasta better that way. This step is crucial — a well-mixed dressing makes all the difference.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Toss the Salad

Cook your short pasta according to the package instructions until just al dente — don’t overcook it! Drain immediately and toss the hot pasta into your dressing bowl; the warmth helps the flavors meld beautifully. Next, add shredded romaine lettuce, grilled or roasted corn, torn basil, chopped cilantro, diced spicy cheddar cheese, and diced avocado. Toss everything thoroughly but gently to avoid mushing the avocado.

Step 3: Make the Chili Butter

In a skillet over medium heat, melt your salted butter until it’s golden and fragrant. Stir in smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper (adjust as you like), and a pinch of salt. Let the spices bloom for about a minute—this step brings out their full flavor. Remove from heat and set aside to drizzle over the salad later.

Step 4: Prepare the Lime Mayo Dressing

Mix mayonnaise (or yogurt if you prefer something lighter) with fresh lime juice and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. This tangy dressing adds a refreshing contrast when drizzled over the pasta salad before serving.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

You can serve this pasta salad warm right after tossing, or chill it for an hour or so if you want it cold. Just before serving, drizzle the lime mayo dressing and spoon over the chili butter. Trust me, letting it sit a bit helps the flavors soften and mingle — it’s the perfect balance of creamy, smoky, and fresh.

How to Serve Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

Garnishes

I typically garnish this salad with a little extra cotija cheese and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or chives. A wedge of lime on the side always adds a lovely pop of citrus if you want to brighten things up even more. These small touches take the presentation over the top and boost the flavors.

Side Dishes

This salad is fantastic alongside grilled meats like chicken or steak, or even as a hearty side at taco nights. I’ve also served it with black bean burgers and it’s a refreshing counterpoint to spicy mains.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, I love serving this salad in clear glass bowls so the vibrant colors shine through. You can also assemble portions in individual mason jars for a fun, portable twist that’s perfect for picnics or potlucks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep any leftovers covered tightly in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again to redistribute the dressing and chili butter. The avocado may brown a little, so eating within a day or two is best for freshness.

Freezing

This Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe doesn’t freeze well because of the avocado and creamy dressing, which can separate. I recommend making it fresh or saving leftovers for fridge storage only.

Reheating

If you prefer it warm, gently reheat your portion in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a little extra olive oil or a splash of water to keep it from drying out. Avoid overheating as the avocado and cheese can become grainy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe has truly become one of my favorites because it balances indulgence and freshness in a way few dishes do. I love how it stays interesting bite after bite with its mix of textures and flavors. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for it whenever you want something that feels both comforting and special. Give it a go—you won’t regret it!

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