Get ready to bring a touch of golden, savory magic to your table with these Cornmeal Onion Patties! Imagine crispy edges, fluffy centers, and little bursts of sweet onion in every bite. This recipe is one of those simple pleasures that’s almost too easy to whip up, yet so incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving them as a crowd-pleasing side or quick lunch, Cornmeal Onion Patties deliver pure comfort and flavor with nothing but a skillet and pantry basics. Trust me, this is the kind of homespun dish you’ll want to make again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Cornmeal Onion Patties is how everyday ingredients come together to create something so deliciously satisfying. Each element adds its own special touch— from the earthiness of cornmeal to the sweetness of fresh onion, there’s no skipping or substituting here if you want that perfect bite!
- Yellow Cornmeal: Delivers that classic crunch and sunny color, forming the sturdy and rustic base of every patty.
- All-Purpose Flour: Helps bind the patties together for a tender, yet cohesive texture that holds up in the skillet.
- Baking Powder: Adds just the right lift, ensuring your patties are light and never dense.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors, especially those sweet onions.
- Black Pepper: Lends a subtle background heat and earthy depth.
- Garlic Powder: Rounds out the flavor with a mild, savory kick that’s never overpowering.
- Smoked Paprika (optional): Infuses a whisper of smoky warmth that pairs beautifully with onion and cornmeal.
- Finely Chopped Onion: The star ingredient! It melts in the pan, sweetening the patties with every bite.
- Milk: Loosens the batter and ensures a soft, creamy crumb inside.
- Large Egg: Acts as the glue, holding everything together so your patties are easy to flip and serve.
- Vegetable Oil (plus more for frying): Needed for both the batter and skillet, giving each patty its irresistible crisp crust.
How to Make Cornmeal Onion Patties
Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients
Before you even think about heating up the skillet, have everything measured and ready to go. There’s something wonderfully relaxing about prepping onions and whisking together pantry staples. Chop your onion as finely as you can for even distribution and the best texture in every bite.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and (if you’re in a smoky mood) smoked paprika. This is the backbone of your Cornmeal Onion Patties, ensuring every patty comes out light, tasty, and perfectly seasoned.
Step 3: Stir in the Onion
Next, tumble your finely chopped onion into the dry mixture. Toss gently to coat every little onion piece with cornmeal and flour—this means those sweet onion bits will be tucked throughout the patties, not just settling at the bottom.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients and Make the Batter
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until completely blended. Pour this mixture into your dry ingredients, stirring just until everything is combined and a thick, spoonable batter forms. Don’t overmix—lumpy is good here!
Step 5: Fry the Patties
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, drop heaping tablespoons of batter into the pan, flattening each one slightly with the back of your spoon. Let them sizzle for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning only when golden brown and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, and repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil as necessary.
Step 6: Serve and Savor!
Serve the Cornmeal Onion Patties while they’re still warm, so the outsides remain perfectly crunchy. The contrasting soft, onion-spiked middle makes each bite irresistible! Add your favorite sauce or enjoy them just as they are—simple food at its very best.
How to Serve Cornmeal Onion Patties
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, green onions, or chives over your Cornmeal Onion Patties for a vibrant shot of color and a fresh contrast. A dollop of sour cream or drizzle of hot sauce gives a tangy (or spicy) kick that balances the patties’ earthy warmth.
Side Dishes
These are an absolute dream alongside classic comfort food: think creamy coleslaw, a crisp garden salad, or even a hearty bean soup on chilly days. For a Southern-inspired spread, serve with collard greens or a big bowl of chili—Cornmeal Onion Patties make everything a little more special.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform these patties into flavorful sliders by topping with a slice of tomato, cheese, and a swipe of aioli, all tucked inside a soft bun. Alternatively, serve mini patties as delightful appetizers on skewers with dipping sauces, or stack two as the star of a rustic vegetarian lunch plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep leftover Cornmeal Onion Patties crispy and fresh, let them cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container with parchment between layers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This keeps them from getting soggy and makes grabbing one for a quick snack so easy!
Freezing
Cornmeal Onion Patties freeze beautifully! Once cooled, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then store in a zip-top bag or airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen for a quick, delicious side at any time.
Reheating
For best results, reheat patties in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and re-crisped, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. An oven or toaster oven is great for larger batches; heat at 350°F until hot, around 8-10 minutes. Microwaving is convenient but won’t bring back that irresistible crispness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish
Absolutely! Sweet onions yield the mildest flavor, but yellow, white, or even red onions all work beautifully. For a more subtle taste, try mixing in some green onions as well.
Is it possible to make Cornmeal Onion Patties gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s a cup-for-cup variety for best results, and the patties will still cook up fluffy and delicious.
Can I add cheese or extra vegetables to the batter?
Definitely! Shredded cheddar, pepper jack, or a sprinkle of parmesan make these even more flavorful, and chopped bell peppers or corn kernels add color and crunch. Just don’t overload the batter so it stays nice and sturdy.
What’s the best oil for frying Cornmeal Onion Patties?
A neutral oil like vegetable, canola, or sunflower is perfect, as it lets the natural flavors of the patties shine through and gives you maximum golden crunch without smoking.
Can I make mini patties for appetizers?
Mini versions are fantastic for parties or snacking! Just use a teaspoon to portion out the batter and fry for a little less time. They crisp up quickly and make wonderful bite-sized treats.
Final Thoughts
Give these Cornmeal Onion Patties a place in your kitchen, and I guarantee they’ll earn a regular spot on your menu! Warm, humble, and endlessly customizable, they’re a testament to how comforting and delicious simple ingredients can be. Grab your skillet, invite someone you love, and share this golden-crisp treat today.
Print
Cornmeal Onion Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cornmeal Onion Patties are a delightful combination of crispy cornmeal, flavorful onions, and a hint of spice. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch, these savory patties are quick and easy to make.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (plus more for frying)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir in chopped onion.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk egg and milk, then add to dry ingredients. Mix until a thick batter forms.
- Fry the Patties: Heat oil in a skillet, drop batter by spoonfuls, flatten slightly, and cook until golden brown and crisp on both sides.
- Drain and Serve: Transfer patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat with remaining batter and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try adding chopped green onions or shredded cheese.
- These patties pair well with sour cream or a spicy dipping sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 patties
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
