If you’ve never had Cornmeal Onion Patties before, get ready for a little crispy, golden miracle on your plate. These beauties are rustic, humble, and oh-so-satisfying like hush puppies met a savory pancake and had a delicious baby. The onions get sweet and tender inside, while the cornmeal crisps up into a mouthwatering crust on the outside. They’re perfect for when you want something comforting, a little nostalgic, and absolutely packed with flavor. Trust me, once you try these, they’re going to be on repeat in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Cornmeal Onion Patties

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Serve them as a side, a snack, or even the main event with a salad or soup. They’re the kind of dish that plays well with others.

Budget-Friendly: Simple, pantry-staple ingredients make this recipe easy on the wallet without sacrificing taste.

Quick and Easy: No need to stress just mix, scoop, and fry. You’ll have something crave-worthy in no time.

Customizable: Love spice? Add a little chopped jalapeño. Want more herbs? Go wild with it. These patties are as flexible as your cravings.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Cornmeal Onion Patties

Here’s the magic of these patties they use simple ingredients, but the flavor payoff is huge. Let’s break it down:

Cornmeal

The heart of the patties. It gives that signature crunch and a subtle sweetness that balances beautifully with the onions.

All-Purpose Flour

Helps bind everything together and gives the patties a bit more structure.

Baking Powder

Adds a bit of lift so the patties don’t feel too dense.

Salt and Pepper

Essential seasonings that bring everything to life. Don’t skimp here!

Chopped Onions

The co-star of the show. They soften and sweeten as they cook, adding loads of flavor and a bit of bite.

Milk

Helps to bring the dry ingredients together and create a batter-like consistency.

Vegetable Oil

For frying. It gives the patties their crispy, golden exterior arguably the best part!

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add enough vegetable oil to lightly coat the bottom. You want it hot enough to sizzle but not smoke.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the chopped onions and then pour in the milk. Mix until you have a thick but scoopable batter.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel

Your skillet should be hot and shimmering with oil by now. This step ensures the patties develop that perfect crisp crust without soaking up too much oil.

Assemble the Dish

Drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot skillet and gently flatten with the back of the spoon to shape into patties. Don’t overcrowd the pan give them room to breathe!

Cook to Perfection

Fry the patties for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crisp. Flip carefully and adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning.

Finishing Touches

Remove from the skillet and let drain on a paper towel-lined plate. This helps get rid of any excess oil and keeps that outer crunch intact.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm and enjoy! Whether it’s paired with a creamy dip, tucked into a sandwich, or eaten straight from the plate, these patties deliver comfort with every bite.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~220
(put them as notes)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve Cornmeal Onion Patties

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a cool contrast
• Pair with a bowl of chili or tomato soup perfect for dipping
• Layer into a sandwich with greens and a swipe of spicy mayo
• Top with a fried egg for a savory breakfast twist
• Offer them alongside roasted veggies or a crisp salad for a complete meal

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Make sure your oil is hot before frying if it’s not sizzling, the patties will soak up oil and get soggy
• Dice the onions finely so they cook evenly and blend into the batter
• You can swap in green onions or add chives for a milder onion flavor
• A pinch of paprika or cayenne adds a subtle kick if you’re into that
• Leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven or air fryer perfect for snacking later

FAQ’s

1. Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can try using whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend, though the texture might be slightly different.

2. What type of cornmeal is best?
Medium-grind cornmeal gives the best texture crispy outside and tender inside.

3. Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely! Brush with a little oil and bake at 400°F for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

4. Are these freezer-friendly?
Yes! Let them cool completely, then freeze on a tray before transferring to a bag. Reheat in the oven for best results.

5. How do I make them spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeño to the batter.

6. Can I add cheese to the mix?
Definitely. A bit of shredded cheddar or Parmesan can add richness and depth.

7. What kind of oil should I use for frying?
A neutral oil like vegetable or canola works best because it doesn’t overpower the flavor.

8. Can I make these vegan?
Sure! Use plant-based milk and skip any dairy additions. They’re naturally egg-free.

9. Do I need to rest the batter before cooking?
No need this batter is ready to go as soon as you mix it.

10. Can I double the recipe?
Of course! Just make sure to fry in batches so they cook evenly.

CONCLUSION

Cornmeal Onion Patties are the kind of recipe that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. Crispy, golden, and packed with savory flavor, they’re a little nostalgic, a little surprising, and totally addictive. Whether you’re whipping them up as a side, snack, or main dish, these patties deliver every time. So go ahead mix up a batch and get ready to fall in love.

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