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Cheesy Corn Fritters Recipe

I can’t wait to share this Cheesy Corn Fritters Recipe with you! It’s one of those snacks that always feels like a celebration in your mouth—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with sweet corn and gooey cheese. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weekend brunch, a quick appetizer, or even a fun side dish for dinner, these fritters deliver comfort and flavor in every bite.

What makes this Cheesy Corn Fritters Recipe stand out is how easy it is to make with simple ingredients you probably already have. Plus, it’s super versatile—you can use fresh, frozen, or even canned corn, making it a great go-to for busy days. I’m confident once you try this, it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen, just like it is for me and my family!

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Simple, Flexible Ingredients: You can use fresh, frozen, or canned corn without losing flavor or texture.
  • Perfect Crispy Texture: The combination of flour, baking powder, and eggs makes for fritters that are perfectly golden and crispy on the outside.
  • Cheesy Goodness: Cheddar cheese adds a wonderful melty richness that turns each bite into a little indulgence.
  • Quick & Easy: You’ll have them crispy and hot in under 40 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this Cheesy Corn Fritters Recipe serves a purpose, whether it’s building flavor, texture, or helping the fritters hold together. Let me walk you through why I chose each one and how to pick the best options when you shop.

  • Corn kernels: Fresh is fantastic if you can get it, but frozen corn works really well too—and canned is a handy backup just make sure it’s well drained.
  • All-purpose flour: It acts as the binder, helping the fritters stick together but still stay tender.
  • Paprika: Adds a subtle, smoky warmth that lifts the overall flavor without overpowering it.
  • Cayenne pepper: Just a touch, to give a gentle kick and balance the sweetness of the corn and cheese.
  • Granulated sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness of the corn without making the fritters overly sweet.
  • Baking powder: This helps the fritters puff up slightly and stay light instead of dense.
  • Eggs: They provide structure and richness while helping everything stick together.
  • Whole milk: Makes the batter smooth and slightly thins it to the right consistency for frying.
  • Green onion: Gives a fresh, mild onion flavor and adds a bit of color.
  • Cheddar cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor and melting qualities.
  • Vegetable oil: For frying—neutral oil lets the fritters crisp without changing the flavor.
  • Kosher salt and black pepper: To season and balance the tastes perfectly.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

One of my favorite things about making this Cheesy Corn Fritters Recipe is how easy it is to tailor it to your liking. I often experiment with spices and cheese types depending on my mood or what I have on hand, and you can easily do the same to keep it exciting.

  • Variation: I sometimes swap out cheddar for pepper jack for a bit more heat, or add fresh herbs like cilantro or chives for an herbaceous touch.
  • Make it gluten-free: Try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and you’re all set without losing texture.
  • Veggie boost: Adding finely diced bell peppers or grated zucchini sneaks in some extra nutrition and color.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Cheesy Corn Fritters Recipe

Step 1: Mixing the Dry Ingredients Just Right

First, I like to combine all the dry things—corn kernels, flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, sugar, baking powder, salt, and black pepper—in a large bowl. Stir them together well because this ensures the spices are evenly spread and every bite has that perfect flavor balance. It feels like building a solid foundation for what’s next!

Step 2: Adding the Wet Ingredients and Cheese

Next up, beat the eggs and milk together, then pour them into your dry mix. Stir gently so everything starts to come together—the trick here is not to overmix. Add in the chopped green onion and grated cheddar cheese, folding them in carefully so the cheese doesn’t get lost and green onions stay fresh and crunchy.

Step 3: Frying to Golden Perfection

Heat enough vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat so that it generously coats the bottom—that’s key for getting that crispy edge. When the oil shimmers, spoon 2-tablespoon dollops of batter into the skillet, flattening them a bit with the back of the spoon. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Be patient and don’t rush flipping—they need time to get that crusty exterior we all love.

Step 4: Draining and Serving

Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to soak up any excess oil—this keeps them lighter and prevents sogginess. Then, get ready to enjoy right away for the best warm, cheesy experience!

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Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Corn Fritters Recipe

  • Don’t Skip Draining the Corn: Extra moisture can make the batter too runny—if using canned or frozen, drain well and pat dry with a kitchen towel.
  • Use a Nonstick Skillet: This helps the fritters release easily and develop an even, golden crust without sticking.
  • Moderate the Heat: Medium heat is ideal—too high and they’ll brown outside but stay raw inside, too low and they absorb too much oil.
  • Work in Batches: Overcrowding the pan drops the oil temperature and you won’t get that satisfying crispiness.

How to Serve Cheesy Corn Fritters Recipe

A stack of four golden-brown corn fritters with a crispy texture is placed on a white plate. The fritters have visible corn kernels and some brown, slightly charred spots, showing a rich, crunchy surface. The top fritter is drizzled with a white creamy sauce that flows down the sides slightly. In the background, a white rectangular baking dish filled with more fritters sits on a white marbled surface, adding depth to the image. The scene is bright with natural light highlighting the warm colors of the fritters. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I love topping my cheesy corn fritters with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for brightness. Sometimes a squeeze of fresh lime juice just wakes up the flavors beautifully. If you like a bit of spice, a drizzle of sriracha or a spoonful of salsa is amazing too.

Side Dishes

These fritters are great alongside green salads with vinaigrette, grilled veggies, or even a bowl of chili on a cooler day. I’ve also served them with avocado slices and tomato salad for a super fresh, light meal. They pair beautifully with just about anything that adds a fresh contrast to their rich, cheesy flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I’ve arranged these fritters on a platter with small bowls of different dipping sauces—think honey mustard, guacamole, and spicy mayo—to make it feel festive and interactive. Mini fritters on skewers also make a fun finger food option. You can dress them up with edible flowers or microgreens for a special occasion too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (and I bet you will!), I store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They keep well for up to 2 days. To avoid sogginess, I separate layers with parchment paper when stacking.

Freezing

I’ve frozen these fritters successfully by letting them cool completely, then placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. This prevents them from sticking together and makes it easy to grab a few later for quick snacks.

Reheating

To reheat, I find the best way is to pop them in a warm skillet with just a bit of oil or butter to crisp up the outside again—microwaving tends to make them soggy. A quick 3-4 minutes on each side is usually enough to bring back that fresh-from-the-pan magic.

FAQs

  1. Can I make cheesy corn fritters vegan?

    Absolutely! Swap the eggs for a flax or chia seed egg replacer, use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and choose a vegan cheese alternative. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious, especially with a bit of extra seasoning!

  2. What’s the best type of cheese for cheesy corn fritters?

    I usually go for sharp cheddar because it melts nicely and adds a great tangy depth, but mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a smoky smoked gouda work wonderfully too. Feel free to experiment based on what you like!

  3. Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?

    You can mix up the batter and keep it in the fridge for a few hours before frying, but it’s best to fry them fresh to keep them crispy. If the batter thickens too much, just stir in a splash of milk before frying.

  4. How do I prevent fritters from being soggy?

    Drain and dry your corn thoroughly before mixing the batter, don’t overcrowd the pan while frying, and drain cooked fritters on paper towels. Using the right amount of oil and cooking over medium heat also helps maintain crispiness.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Corn Fritters Recipe has become one of my happy go-to dishes whenever I want something cozy and satisfying but quick to pull together. I love how it balances sweet corn, sharp cheese, and a touch of spice with a crispy crust that makes every bite a joy. I hope you’ll give it a try soon—you might just find that it becomes your new favorite for easy entertaining or a comforting weekday treat!

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Cheesy Corn Fritters Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 10 reviews
  • Author: Taylor
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Delicious and crispy cheesy corn fritters made with fresh or frozen corn, cheddar cheese, and a blend of spices, perfect for a savory snack or side dish.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 3 cups corn kernels, fresh, frozen, or canned (thawed, if frozen)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup green onion, chopped
  • 3/4 cup cheddar cheese, grated
  • Vegetable oil, as needed
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste


Instructions

  1. Prepare the batter: In a large bowl, combine the corn kernels, flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, sugar, baking powder, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir to combine all dry ingredients evenly.
  2. Add wet ingredients: Add the beaten eggs and whole milk into the dry mixture, stirring until well mixed. Then gently fold in the chopped green onions and grated cheddar cheese until everything is evenly incorporated.
  3. Heat oil: Place a skillet over medium heat and pour enough vegetable oil to generously coat the bottom of the skillet. Heat the oil until it is shimmering and ready for frying.
  4. Cook fritters: Drop the batter by 2-tablespoon portions into the hot oil, then flatten each portion slightly into a fritter shape. Cook them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and become crispy.
  5. Drain and serve: Remove cooked fritters and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Continue cooking the remaining batter in batches. Serve warm as a delicious snack or side dish.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper to 1/2 teaspoon.
  • You can substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
  • Fresh corn works best, but if using frozen, make sure to fully thaw and drain to prevent soggy fritters.
  • Use a non-stick skillet to avoid sticking and reduce the amount of oil needed.
  • These fritters reheat well in a skillet or oven to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 3 fritters)
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

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