Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad – A Party-Worthy Side for Cheap

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Get ready to wow your guests (or just your taste buds) with this vibrant, zesty Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad. It’s a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and smoky flavors that’s easy on the wallet and big on flavor. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, potluck, or weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

🥣 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Budget-friendly – Costs less than $5 to make!
✅ Ready in under 30 minutes
✅ Packed with bold flavors
✅ Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or meal prep
✅ Easily customizable to suit your preferences

🛒 Ingredients

Ingredient	Approx. Cost
2 cups elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)	$1.00
2 cups frozen corn (or fresh corn if in season)	$1.00
1/2 cup mayonnaise	$0.50
1/4 cup sour cream	$0.50
1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as a budget alternative)	$1.00
1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional for heat)	$0.30
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped	$0.20
1 tsp chili powder	$0.10
1 tsp smoked paprika	$0.10
1 lime, juiced	$0.30
Salt and pepper to taste	Pantry staple
Crushed tortilla chips for garnish (optional)	$0.50

Total Estimated Cost: ~$5.00

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the corn and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly charred. This gives it that authentic “street corn” flavor.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta, corn, jalapeño, cilantro, and crumbled cheese to the dressing. Toss everything together until well coated.

Step 5: Serve

Top with crushed tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch. Serve immediately or chill for 1 hour for even bolder flavor!

🌟 Tips for Success

✅ For extra flavor, grill fresh corn on the cob and slice the kernels off.
✅ Add diced avocado for creamy richness.
✅ Crumbled bacon makes an excellent addition if you want to take it up a notch.
✅ Spice lovers can add hot sauce or extra chili powder for a kick.

🍴 What to Serve With It

Pair this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad with these dishes for a complete meal:

💰 How to Make It Even Cheaper

Swap cotija cheese for shredded cheddar or feta to reduce cost.
Use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen.
Mix in leftover chicken or beans to stretch this salad into a full meal.

🥄 Storage Tips

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Avoid freezing; the creamy dressing doesn’t hold up well when thawed.

🔥 Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to impress your guests or treat yourself to bold, exciting flavors. Enjoy a budget-friendly fiesta in your mouth with this easy-to-make dish!

👉 Have you tried this recipe? Let us know your favorite twist or serving suggestion in the comments below!