Description
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these Quick and Easy Pan-Fried Corn Fritters are a flavor-packed side dish or appetizer that’s guaranteed to please. Made with sweet corn, fresh herbs, jalapeño, and gooey Monterey Jack cheese, these golden corn cakes are perfect for any meal. Serve them hot with a dollop of sour cream, salsa, or your favorite dipping sauce, and you’ve got a dish that everyone will be asking for again and again.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
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Busy home cooks looking for a quick and flavorful side dish.
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Families who want a fun and kid-friendly way to eat vegetables.
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Party hosts searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
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Anyone who loves Tex-Mex inspired flavors with a crispy twist.
Why it’s Great
✅ Ready in 30 minutes – perfect for weeknights or entertaining.
✅ Loaded with flavor – jalapeño, cilantro, and cheese give it a bold kick.
✅ Versatile – works as a side dish, snack, or even a vegetarian main course.
✅ Crispy & cheesy – golden crust outside with melty cheese inside.
✅ Budget-friendly – made with pantry staples and canned corn.
Ingredients
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3 cups corn (about 2 cans sweet whole kernel corn, drained)
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¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
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¼ cup green onion, chopped
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1 jalapeño, deseeded and finely diced
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1 Tbsp fresh lime juice
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1 tsp baking powder
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½ tsp kosher salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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¼ tsp chili powder
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2 large eggs, lightly beaten
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¼ cup whole milk
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2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
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4 Tbsp olive oil (for frying)
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine corn, cilantro, green onion, jalapeño, and lime juice. Set aside.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and chili powder.
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Add the dry mixture to the corn mixture and stir gently.
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Fold in eggs, milk, and shredded cheese until combined.
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Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat.
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Using a scoop or spoon, drop portions of the batter into the hot skillet. Flatten slightly with a spatula.
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Cook each fritter for 3–5 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
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Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil.
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Sprinkle with salt and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Large mixing bowl
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Small mixing bowl
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Whisk
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Skillet or frying pan
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Spatula
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Ice cream scoop or spoon
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Paper towels
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store cooled fritters in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer for best results.
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Freezer: Freeze cooked fritters in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Store for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen.
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Make Ahead: Prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying.
FAQ
1. Can I use fresh or frozen corn instead of canned?
Yes! Fresh corn cut from the cob or thawed frozen corn works perfectly.
2. How can I make these fritters spicier?
Keep the jalapeño seeds, or add diced serrano peppers for extra heat.
3. What dipping sauces go best with corn fritters?
Sour cream, chipotle mayo, ranch dressing, or fresh salsa are all delicious choices.
4. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes—just substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour.
Conclusion
These Quick and Easy Pan-Fried Corn Fritters are the perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, and flavorful. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they’re guaranteed to be a hit at your dinner table. With simple ingredients and bold flavor, this recipe is one you’ll make again and again. ✨
