Cracked Corn Salad

Cracked corn salad combines sweet corn, crispy bacon, and a creamy dressing for a quick and delicious side dish. Perfect for any occasion, it's easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

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Table of Contents

Cracked Corn Salad Ingredients
Substitutions and Additions
How To Make This Cracked Corn Salad Recipe
More Troubleshooting Tips For this Easy Corn Salad
How To Serve Cracked Corn Bacon Salad
How To Store Your Cracked Corn Side Dish
Why This Cracked Corn Salad Is The Best
Frequently Asked Questions
More Corn Side Dishes for BBQs
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Cracked corn salad is a must-try for any cook looking to whip up something quick and delicious. With crispy bacon, sweet corn, and a zesty dressing in just under 30 minutes of prep time, it’s perfect for busy days when you want something fresh and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

At Spaceships and Laser Beams, we spent over a decade perfecting our process to provide you with easy-to-follow recipes that anyone can make at home. Because of our clear, step-by-step instructions and practical tips, millions of readers confidently cook tasty recipes for their families. You can trust our years of experience and expertise to guide you in making a salad that’s sure to impress.

With a simple list of ingredients, this fresh corn salad will be ready to serve in no time! It’s the perfect side dish for light summer dinners, picnics, and BBQs, and just like our dozes of 5-star fresh salad recipes, we know this one will be a hit with your friends and family.

Cracked Corn Salad Ingredients

Cracked Corn Salad raw ingredients that are labeled

Cracked corn salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines simple ingredients to make a creamy, tasty side. Combine fresh veggies and stir together with a tangy dressing for an easy side dish everyone will devour.

You’ll need:

½ pound (approximately 6 slices) thick cut bacon
2 cans yellow corn, drained well
¼ cup + 1 tablespoon sliced green onions, divided
2 tablespoons finely diced jalapeno pepper, seeds & veins removed before dicing
½ cup finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
¼ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sour cream
2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
2 teaspoons ranch seasoning mix
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Substitutions and Additions

Making this crack corn salad recipe is versatile and allows for plenty of substitutions and additions to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Here are some ideas to help you customize this recipe:

Bacon: You can use turkey bacon or a vegetarian bacon substitute for a lighter or meat-free option.

Yellow Canned Corn: If fresh sweet corn is in season, feel free to use it. Grill or boil the corn, then cut it off the cob. Frozen corn can also be used—just thaw and drain it well before adding it to the salad.

Green Onions: Red onions or shallots can be used for a stronger onion flavor. They will add a different texture and color to the salad.

Jalapeno Pepper: For less heat, substitute with a milder pepper such as poblano or green peppers. This will maintain the crunch without the spice.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese: If you prefer a different cheese, try using pepper jack for extra spice or mozzarella for a milder taste. The texture will stay creamy with these cheeses. For a Mexican flair, try using Cotija cheese or even feta.

Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute, providing a similar creaminess with added protein. It will slightly change the tanginess of the dressing.

Sour Cream: An equal amount of plain Greek yogurt can be used here as well. This substitution will keep the dressing thick and creamy with a tangy flavor.

Fresh Lime Juice: Lemon juice can be used as a substitute if you don’t have lime juice on hand. The citrus flavor will still brighten the dish, though it will be slightly different.

Ranch Seasoning Mix: Try making your own homemade ranch seasoning. It will last in your cupboard for months.

Additions: Ideas for more mix-ins to this corn salad with ranch:

Cherry tomatoes
Avocados
Crushed Frito chips (although it’s best to mix them in just before serving)
Chopped red onion
Fresh basil
Diced red, yellow, or green bell peppers
Black beans
Fresh chopped cilantro
Sliced black or green olives
Green chilies (will add more heat)
Sunflower seeds

How To Make This Cracked Corn Salad Recipe

This easy corn salad is quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion. To make it simple, we’ve included tips and helpful photos to guide you. Follow these detailed instructions to make your own corn salad with bacon in just 30 minutes:

STEP ONE: Start by cooking the bacon. Dice six slices of thick-cut bacon into ½ inch pieces. Heat a medium or large skillet over medium heat, then add the diced bacon. Cook until fully cooked and crispy.

PRO TIP: Use a splatter screen to avoid any mess from the bacon grease.

STEP TWO: Using a slotted spoon, remove the cooked bacon pieces from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate. This will help drain any excess fat from the bacon, leaving it crispy and ready to add to the salad.

STEP THREE: In a large mixing bowl, add two drained cans of yellow corn. Add the sliced green onions (reserve 1 tablespoon for a garnish), finely diced jalapeno pepper, and finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix these ingredients together.

yellow corn, sliced geen onions, finely diced jalapeno pepper, and finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese added to a bowl

STEP FOUR: In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh lime juice, ranch seasoning mix, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is thick and smooth.

mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh lime juice, ranch seasoning mix, salt, and black pepper combined in a bowl

STEP FIVE: Pour the dressing over the corn mixture in the large bowl. Stir well to fully combine all the ingredients, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the dressing.

ranch dressing added to the corn mixture in the large bowl

STEP SIX: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one to two hours. This chilling period allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the salad is completely chilled before serving.

PRO TIP: Stir the salad after refrigeration to make sure all ingredients are well distributed.

STEP SEVEN: Before serving, garnish the salad with the remaining 1 tablespoon of sliced green onions. This adds a fresh, bright touch to the dish.

salad garnished with sliced green onions

More Troubleshooting Tips For this Easy Corn Salad

Problem: Bacon isn’t crispy enough.

Solution: Cook the bacon longer and stir frequently to achieve the desired crispiness.

Problem: Dressing is too runny.

Solution: Use full-fat mayonnaise and sour cream to achieve a thicker consistency.

Problem: I don’t want my salad to be spicy.

Solution: Remove all seeds and veins from the jalapeno or use a milder pepper like green peppers.

Problem: Cheese clumps together.

Solution: Shred the cheese finely and mix it with the corn before adding the dressing.

Problem: Corn is too wet.

Solution: Make sure to drain the canned corn thoroughly before adding it to the salad.

Problem: Bacon becomes soggy.

Solution: Allow the bacon to cool completely on a paper towel-lined plate before mixing it into the salad.

Problem: Salad lacks flavor.

Solution: Ensure you use fresh lime juice and the correct amount of ranch seasoning mix.

Problem: Dressing separates after refrigeration.

Solution: Stir the salad well before serving to redistribute the dressing evenly.

Problem: Salad is too salty.

Solution: Use low-sodium bacon and adjust the salt in the dressing to taste.

Problem: Ingredients are not evenly mixed.

Solution: Toss the salad gently but thoroughly to ensure even distribution of all ingredients.

How To Serve Cracked Corn Bacon Salad

Cracked corn salad is versatile and so easy to serve. Whether you’re planning a casual family meal or a festive gathering, this salad can be the perfect addition.

Classic Side Dish: Serve the cracked corn salad as a classic side dish alongside grilled meats like chicken or beef kabos. The smoky bacon and creamy dressing complement the charred flavors of grilled foods well.

Picnic or BBQ Staple: Bring this salad to picnics or summer cookouts. It pairs wonderfully with burgers, hot dogs, and barbecued ribs. The cool, creamy texture of the salad contrasts nicely with the smoky, tangy flavors of BBQ sauces and grilled meats.

Taco Topping: Use the cracked corn salad as a unique topping for tacos. It adds a crunchy, creamy element to beef or chicken tacos.

Salad Base: Turn this dish into a hearty main course by serving it over a bed of mixed greens. Add some grilled chicken on top for extra protein. The dressing from the bacon ranch corn salad serves as a built-in dressing for the greens, making it a complete and easy meal.

Party Appetizer: Serve the cracked corn salad with tortilla chips as a party appetizer. It’s a refreshing and unexpected alternative to the usual salsas and dips, and guests will love scooping up the corn and bacon with crispy chips.

Brunch Addition: Incorporate the cracked corn salad into your brunch spread. The salad’s fresh flavors and creamy dressing add a nice balance to richer breakfast dishes.

Complementary Drinks: Pair the salad with refreshing drinks like a spicy margarita or a mango mojito. For a non-alcoholic option, strawberry lemonade will make a fresh and fruity pairing.

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How To Store Your Cracked Corn Side Dish

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and flavor of your can corn salad recipe. Follow these tips to ensure your salad stays delicious whether you’re making it ahead, refrigerating leftovers, or reheating it.

MAKE AHEAD: Cracked corn salad can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy days or planned events. Prepare the salad as directed, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Make it up to 24 hours in advance to allow the flavors to meld while keeping the ingredients fresh.

IN THE FRIDGE: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. cracked corn salad will last for up to three days. Stir the salad before serving to redistribute the dressing and maintain its creamy consistency.

IN THE FREEZER: It’s not recommended to freeze cracked corn salad as the ingredients may lose their texture and become mushy once thawed. The dressing might also separate, leading to a less appealing texture.

Why This Cracked Corn Salad Is The Best

Cracked corn salad has become a favorite for many reasons, offering a perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and versatility. It’s not just about how it tastes but also about how it fits seamlessly into any meal plan.

Easy to Prepare: Use common ingredients and just stir this salad together. It’s so easy, any home cook can make this.

Packed with Flavor: The combination of sweet corn, smoky bacon, and tangy dressing creates a memorable dish.

Crowd-Pleaser: This salad is always a hit at gatherings, making it a go-to recipe for entertaining.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it in advance for stress-free meals and events.

Colorful and Appealing: The vibrant colors make it an attractive addition to any table.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh corn instead of canned corn?

Yes, you can use fresh corn. Simply grill or boil the corn, then cut it off the cob before adding it to the salad.

How spicy is this salad with the jalapeno peppers?

The salad has a mild kick. For less heat, remove the seeds and veins or substitute with milder peppers like bell pepper.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of shredding my own?

Yes, pre-shredded cheese is convenient and works well in this recipe.

Is there a substitute for ranch seasoning mix?

You can use a blend of dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley as a substitute.

How can I make this cracked corn salad suitable for vegetarians?

Simply omit the bacon or use a vegetarian bacon substitute to make the salad vegetarian-friendly.

Is cracked corn salad served warm or cold?

Cracked Corn Salad is best served cold, making it a refreshing side dish.

How can I reduce the spiciness of the crack corn salad?

To reduce the spiciness, remove the seeds and veins from the jalapeno or use a milder pepper like bell pepper.

What type of corn is best for this cracked corn salad?

Canned yellow corn is recommended, but you can also use fresh or frozen corn that has been thawed and drained.

How can I make the dressing creamier?

To make the dressing creamier, ensure you are using full-fat mayonnaise and sour cream. You can also blend the dressing ingredients for a smoother consistency.

Can this salad be part of a larger meal?

Absolutely, Cracked corn salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a topping for tacos.

What’s the best way to mix the ingredients?

Gently fold the ingredients together to avoid breaking the corn kernels and to ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing.

Can I use this salad as a filling for other dishes?

Yes, this salad works great as a filling for wraps or as a topping for nachos and tacos.

Is it okay to use low-fat ingredients?

Yes, you can use low-fat mayonnaise and sour cream, but the texture and taste may be slightly different.

Cracked corn salad is a quick and tasty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the easy preparation and the delicious blend of flavors in every bite!

More Corn Side Dishes for BBQs

Cracked Corn Salad

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Cracked corn salad combines sweet corn, crispy bacon, and a creamy dressing for a quick and delicious side dish. Perfect for any occasion, it’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

Prep Time 25

Total Time 1 25

Servings

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Ingredients

½ pound thick cut bacon, diced into ½ inch pieces (approximately 6 slices)
30.5 ounces yellow corn, drained well (two 15.25 ounce cans)
¼ cup sliced green onions, to mix into the corn
1 tablespoon sliced green onions, for garnish
2 tablespoons finely diced jalapeno pepper, seeds & veins removed before dicing
½ cup finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
¼ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sour cream
2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
2 teaspoons ranch seasoning mix
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

To a medium skillet oven medium heat, add the diced thick cut bacon and cook for 12-16 minutes or until crispy. Be sure to stir often to ensure that the bacon is cooking evenly and not burning.
Using a slotted spoon, remove the cooked bacon pieces and place them onto a paper towel-lined plate to allow all the excess fat to drain from the bacon. Set aside.
To a large mixing bowl, add the yellow corn, ¼ cup sliced green onions, finely diced jalapeno pepper, and finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Set aside.
To a small mixing bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh lime juice, ranch seasoning mix, salt, and black pepper until thick and smooth.
Add the ranch dressing to the bowl of corn and stir to fully combine all the ingredients and coat them evenly in the ranch dressing mix.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to blend and the salad to chill completely before serving. You may want to give it a stir after refrigeration to make sure all the ingredients are well distributed.
Garnish with the remaining 1 tablespoon sliced green onions and serve.

Notes

Use a splatter screen when cooking the bacon to avoid any mess from the bacon grease.
Stir the salad after refrigeration to make sure all ingredients are well distributed.

Nutrition

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Cracked Corn Salad

Cracked Corn Salad Ingredients

Substitutions and Additions

How To Make This Cracked Corn Salad Recipe

More Troubleshooting Tips For this Easy Corn Salad