Craving the crispy, golden flavor of onion rings without the mess of deep frying and battering? These Old-Fashioned Onion Patties deliver all the crunchy satisfaction in a much simpler, skillet-friendly form. Made with chopped onions, flour, and cornmeal, these savory fritters come together in one bowl and cook up in just minutes. They’re the perfect snack, side dish, or appetizer — easy, comforting, and packed with flavor.
Who is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
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Busy home cooks who want a fast, flavorful dish
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Budget-conscious families looking for low-cost comfort food
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Onion lovers who enjoy bold, savory bites
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Anyone who enjoys southern-style cooking and vintage recipes
Whether you’re planning a casual dinner or a party platter, these patties hit the spot.
Why It’s Great
✅ Crispy like onion rings without the hassle
✅ No fancy ingredients — just pantry staples
✅ Budget-friendly and easy to double
✅ Versatile — serve with burgers, eggs, soup, or dips
✅ Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly
Ingredients
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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2 tablespoons cornmeal (yellow or white)
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2 teaspoons granulated sugar
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2 teaspoons baking powder
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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2½ cups finely chopped onions (about 1½ large onions)
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1 cup milk
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½ cup cooking oil (for frying – canola or vegetable oil preferred)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Large mixing bowl
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Whisk or fork
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Skillet (cast iron preferred for best crisp)
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Spoon or ¼-cup scoop
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Paper towels for draining
Instructions
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Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in chopped onions until coated. Add milk and mix until a thick batter forms. -
Heat the Oil
In a skillet over medium heat, pour in about ¼ inch of cooking oil. Let it heat until shimmering. -
Fry the Patties
Scoop about ¼ cup of batter for each patty and drop into the hot oil. Flatten slightly with the back of the spoon. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. -
Drain and Serve
Transfer patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side to any meal.
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze cooked patties between layers of parchment paper in a sealed container for up to 1 month.
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Reheat: Use an air fryer, oven, or skillet to bring back the crispiness — avoid microwaving, as they may get soggy.
Quick Tips
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Don’t overcrowd the skillet — fry in batches for best texture
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Use finely chopped onions to ensure even cooking
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Want an extra-crispy edge? Use a cast iron skillet
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Customize with spices like garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne
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Add cheese or fresh herbs for a flavor twist
Make It Your Own
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes
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Cheesy Version: Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar
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Herb Upgrade: Add chopped parsley, thyme, or chives
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Onion Variations: Use red, yellow, or green onions—or a mix
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Store them in the fridge and reheat in a skillet or air fryer before serving.
Q: Can I bake or air fry instead of frying?
You can air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. Baking is an option too, but they won’t be quite as crisp.
Q: What oil is best for frying?
Neutral oils like canola, vegetable, or sunflower oil are ideal due to their high smoke points.
Q: What type of onions work best?
White, yellow, red, or even green onions all work great. Mix and match for deeper flavor.
Q: How do I keep patties warm for a group?
Place finished patties on a wire rack over a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven to stay warm and crisp while cooking the rest.
Conclusion
Old-Fashioned Onion Patties are a nostalgic comfort food that’s crispy, satisfying, and simple to prepare. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, as a savory side dish, or as an anytime snack, these golden patties deliver big flavor with little fuss. Once you try them, they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
