Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cheesy Corn Fritters are incredibly easy to whip up and full of flavor. They’re golden and crisp, cheesy without being heavy, and perfect for dipping or serving alongside your favorite mains. They work well for breakfast, brunch, or even game day, and they’re endlessly customizable with herbs and spices.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Eggs
- Milk
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Green onions, chopped
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder (optional)
- Paprika or chili powder (optional)
- Oil, for frying
Directions
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and any optional spices like garlic powder or paprika.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and milk until combined.
- Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Fold in corn, cheese, and green onions until evenly mixed.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of batter per fritter into the hot oil, pressing down slightly.
- Cook 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crisp.
- Remove and drain on a paper towel–lined plate.
- Serve warm with sour cream, salsa, or a dipping sauce of your choice.
Servings and timing
Makes: 12–14 fritters
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Use pepper jack or mozzarella instead of cheddar for a different cheesy flavor.
- Add chopped jalapeños for heat.
- Mix in cooked bacon bits for a smoky twist.
- Use chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro for freshness.
- Serve with spicy mayo, chipotle aioli, or avocado crema for dipping.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until crisp or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes. For freezing, place cooked fritters in a single layer on a tray to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven or toaster oven.
FAQs
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to cook the fritters soon after mixing for the fluffiest texture, but you can prep the ingredients and mix just before frying.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What kind of corn works best?
Any kind! Fresh is ideal, but frozen (thawed) or canned (drained) corn works perfectly too.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to keep the texture similar.
Why are my fritters soggy?
Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying and don’t overcrowd the pan. Drain on paper towels immediately after frying.
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely—try feta, gouda, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
How thick should the batter be?
It should be thick but spoonable—like pancake batter. Add a splash of milk if it’s too thick.
What can I serve these with?
They’re great with sour cream, hot sauce, salsa, or even topped with a fried egg for breakfast.
Do they reheat well?
Yes! Use a hot skillet or oven to bring back the crispness.
Can I air fry them?
Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Conclusion
Cheesy Corn Fritters are a quick and flavorful way to turn simple ingredients into a crispy, cheesy, golden treat. With their satisfying texture and sweet-savory balance, they’re perfect as a snack, side dish, or starter. Serve them fresh and hot for best results—and don’t forget the dipping sauce!
PrintCheesy Corn Fritters
Cheesy Corn Fritters are golden, crispy fritters filled with sweet corn, gooey cheese, and savory seasonings. Quick to make with pantry staples, they’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12–14 fritters
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp paprika or chili powder (optional)
- Oil, for frying
Instructions
In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and optional spices.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs and milk until combined.
- Add wet ingredients to dry, stirring until just mixed.
- Fold in corn, cheese, and green onions.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Scoop 2 tbsp of batter per fritter into the skillet, pressing slightly.
- Cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm with dipping sauce.
Notes
- Fresh corn gives the sweetest flavor, but frozen or canned work too.
- Ensure oil is hot before frying to avoid soggy fritters.
- Bake or air fry for a lighter version.
- Add jalapeños, herbs, or bacon for variations.
- Reheat in a skillet or oven to keep crispy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fritter
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg