This Crack Corn Salad is an irresistible blend of sweet corn, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and creamy ranch with a zesty kick from jalapeño and lime. It's the ultimate crowd-pleasing side dish—cool, crunchy, and bursting with bold flavor in every bite!
4cupssweet cornfresh, canned, or thawed frozen12 slices cooked bacon, finely chopped¼ cup green onions, chopped1 jalapeño, finely diced½ cup Ranch salad dressing (store-bought or homemade)1 cup cheddar cheese, shreddedJuice of 1 lime1 teaspoon garlic powderKosher salt, to tasteFreshly ground black pepper, to taste
For homemade ranch dressingoptional:1½ cups mayonnaise½ cup sour cream⅓ cup whole milk¼ cup buttermilk¼ teaspoon onion powder2 garlic cloves, minced2 tablespoons lemon juice1 teaspoon fresh dillSalt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
If making homemade ranch dressing, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, buttermilk, onion powder, garlic, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside or refrigerate.
In a large bowl, combine sweet corn, bacon, green onions, jalapeño, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
Add ½ cup of ranch dressing to the mixture and stir until everything is well coated. Add more dressing if a creamier texture is desired.
Optional: Chill for 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill if desired.
Notes
You can use fresh grilled corn for a smoky depth of flavor. Adjust spice level by using more or less jalapeño—or substitute with bell pepper for a milder version. Great for BBQs, potlucks, or as a make-ahead side for any gathering.