Get ready to fall in love with the irresistible crunch and savory goodness of Crispy Cheddar Corn Potato Fritters! These golden-brown delights combine the fluffy heartiness of potatoes, sweet pops of corn, and melty cheddar cheese into a fritter that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a fun appetizer, a comforting vegetarian side, or a snack that steals the show at brunch, this recipe is about to become a go-to staple in your kitchen. Every bite is packed with flavor and texture, making it impossible to stop at just one.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Crispy Cheddar Corn Potato Fritters is in their simplicity. Each ingredient brings its own charm, whether it’s the earthiness of potatoes, the creamy tang of cheddar, or the brightness of green onions. Here’s what you’ll need to make these fritters shine:
- Shredded russet potatoes (2 cups, peeled): The backbone of your fritters, lending the perfect starchy texture and crispiness when fried.
- Corn kernels (1 cup, fresh, frozen, or canned): Adds bursts of sweetness and a pop of color. If using frozen, thaw first; if canned, drain well.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully into the fritters, ensuring every bite is rich and savory.
- Finely chopped green onions (1/4 cup): Provides a gentle onion flavor and a bit of fresh green color.
- All-purpose flour (1/4 cup): Binds everything together so your fritters don’t fall apart in the pan.
- Large eggs (2): Acts as the glue, holding your mixture together and giving structure.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Complements the green onions and rounds out the savory notes.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings out the natural flavors of every ingredient.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a gentle kick and a little complexity.
- Smoked paprika (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Adds a hint of smokiness and a touch of color—totally optional but highly recommended!
- Vegetable oil for frying (2–4 tablespoons): Ensures the fritters get their signature crispy exterior.
How to Make Crispy Cheddar Corn Potato Fritters
Step 1: Prep the Veggies and Cheese
Start by peeling and shredding your russet potatoes. If you want extra crispy fritters, take a minute to squeeze out excess moisture from the potatoes using a clean kitchen towel. Combine these with your corn kernels, shredded cheddar cheese, and finely chopped green onions in a large mixing bowl. This colorful mix is already promising big flavor!
Step 2: Whisk the Binding Ingredients
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). This flavorful mixture is what will bind your fritters together and infuse every bite with seasoning.
Step 3: Combine and Mix
Pour your egg and flour mixture over the potato, corn, and cheese blend. Using a spatula or your hands, gently stir until everything is evenly coated and well mixed. It should look thick and cohesive—if it seems a bit dry, you can add a tablespoon of milk; if too wet, sprinkle in a touch more flour.
Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Scoop about 1/4 cup of the mixture for each fritter, placing it in the pan and flattening it slightly with a spatula. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until each fritter is golden brown and crispy on the edges. Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches and add more oil as needed.
Step 5: Drain and Serve Hot
As the fritters finish cooking, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve your Crispy Cheddar Corn Potato Fritters hot, with your favorite dipping sauces like sour cream, salsa, or even a zesty aioli. Prepare yourself for the most satisfying crunch!
How to Serve Crispy Cheddar Corn Potato Fritters
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra green onions, a dash of smoked paprika, or a handful of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley instantly elevates these fritters. For an extra layer of flavor, try a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of your favorite salsa right on top.
Side Dishes
Pair Crispy Cheddar Corn Potato Fritters with a fresh green salad, a bowl of tomato soup, or a tangy coleslaw for a well-rounded meal. They’re also fabulous alongside scrambled eggs and fruit salad for a hearty brunch spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the fritters high for a show-stopping appetizer platter, or make mini versions for party bites. Try serving them open-faced as a base for poached eggs, or tuck them into a wrap with greens and a drizzle of chipotle mayo for a fun lunch twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow manage to have leftovers, keep your Crispy Cheddar Corn Potato Fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They hold their flavor and texture really well, making them perfect for next-day snacking.
Freezing
To freeze, let the fritters cool completely, then lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 months—just grab and reheat whenever the craving strikes!
Reheating
For best results, reheat the fritters in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy again. You can also use an oven or air fryer for a few minutes. The microwave works in a pinch, but you’ll lose a bit of that trademark crunch.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes bring a lovely touch of sweetness and a gorgeous orange hue. Just be aware they may be a bit softer, so squeeze out extra moisture before mixing.
What’s the best way to prevent soggy fritters?
Squeezing the shredded potatoes to remove excess moisture is the secret to keeping your Crispy Cheddar Corn Potato Fritters light and crunchy. Also, don’t crowd the pan when frying—they need space to brown properly.
Can I make the fritter mixture ahead of time?
You can prep everything up to mixing, but wait to add the eggs and flour until you’re ready to fry. This prevents the potatoes from oxidizing and keeps the mixture fresh.
What dipping sauces go well with these fritters?
Classic sour cream is always a hit, but these fritters also love spicy chipotle mayo, salsa verde, or a tangy yogurt dip. Feel free to get creative based on your mood!
Are Crispy Cheddar Corn Potato Fritters gluten-free?
The traditional recipe uses all-purpose flour, but you can swap it for a gluten-free blend or even chickpea flour to make these fritters completely gluten-free without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of biting into these Crispy Cheddar Corn Potato Fritters! They’re truly one of those recipes that brings people together and disappears from the plate in a flash. Give them a try and watch your friends and family light up with every crunchy, cheesy, flavor-packed bite.
Print
Crispy Cheddar Corn Potato Fritters Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 fritters
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Crispy Cheddar Corn Potato Fritters are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that combines shredded russet potatoes, sweet corn kernels, sharp cheddar cheese, and savory seasonings. Golden and crispy on the outside with a cheesy, flavorful inside, they are perfect for serving with sour cream, salsa, or your favorite dipping sauce. Ideal for vegetarian diets and quick stovetop preparation.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded russet potatoes (peeled)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
Binding and Seasoning
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For Frying
- 2–4 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
- Combine the main ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the shredded potatoes, corn kernels, shredded cheddar cheese, and finely chopped green onions until evenly distributed.
- Prepare the egg mixture: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until smooth and well combined.
- Mix wet and dry ingredients: Pour the egg and flour mixture over the potato mixture, then stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated and a cohesive batter forms.
- Heat the oil: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, allowing it to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Form and cook fritters: Using a 1/4 cup measure, scoop portions of the batter into the hot skillet. Flatten each slightly with a spatula for even cooking. Cook each fritter for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain excess oil: Remove cooked fritters from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
- Repeat cooking: Add more oil to the skillet if necessary and continue cooking the remaining batter in batches until all fritters are done.
- Serve: Serve the fritters hot with sour cream, salsa, or your preferred dipping sauce for an enjoyable appetizer or side dish.
Notes
- Substitute green onions with chives or finely chopped red onions for a different flavor profile.
- For extra crispiness, squeeze out excess moisture from the shredded potatoes before mixing.
- To add heat, incorporate a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the batter.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fritter
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
