Some recipes never go out of style, and Old-Fashioned Onion Patties are one of those timeless comfort foods. They’re crisp on the outside, tender inside, and bursting with sweet onion flavor. If you’ve never had them before, imagine an onion ring’s rustic, hearty cousin—no breading station, no deep fryer, just a simple batter and a skillet of hot oil.
This recipe takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where she would fry up a big batch to go alongside soups, burgers, or hearty breakfast plates. The smell of onions sizzling in oil would fill the house, drawing everyone to the table before they were even ready to serve.
Perfect as a side dish or even a snack, these patties are budget-friendly, easy to make, and irresistibly good when paired with a cool, creamy dip. They’re also a great alternative to onion rings if you want all the flavor without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love These Onion Patties
- Simple ingredients – Everything is pantry-friendly.
- Quick to make – Ready in under 20 minutes.
- Versatile – Serve as a side dish, snack, or appetizer.
- Crispy & golden – Perfectly fried for a satisfying crunch.
- Budget-friendly – Uses inexpensive, everyday ingredients.
Ingredients (Makes About 8–10 Patties)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornmeal (regular or self-rising)
- 2 teaspoons white sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 1/2 cups chopped onions (about 1 1/2 large onions)
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup cooking oil (canola or vegetable oil for frying)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Add chopped onions and stir until coated. Pour in milk and mix until you have a thick batter.
2. Heat the Oil:
Pour enough oil into a skillet to coat the bottom generously (about 1/4 inch deep). Heat over medium until shimmering.
3. Fry the Patties:
Using a 1/4 cup measuring scoop or large spoon, drop batter into the hot oil. Flatten slightly with the back of the spoon. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp. Flip carefully to avoid splashing.
4. Drain & Serve:
Transfer patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm with dipping sauce or as a side to burgers, soups, or breakfast platters.
Tips & Variations
- Make them spicier – Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the batter.
- Cheesy twist – Mix in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar for extra flavor.
- Add herbs – Fresh parsley or chives brighten the flavor.
- Crispier patties – Make sure the oil is fully heated before frying.
- Lighter version – Pan-fry in less oil or air-fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
FAQ
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes—store it covered in the fridge for up to 1 day, but it’s best fried fresh.
What onions work best?
Yellow onions are classic, but sweet onions like Vidalia add extra sweetness.
Can I freeze onion patties?
Yes—cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a bag. Reheat in an oven or air fryer.
Can I bake them instead of frying?
Yes—bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway, though they won’t be as crispy.
What dipping sauces go well?
Ranch, spicy mayo, chipotle sauce, or ketchup are all great options.
Final Thoughts
Old-Fashioned Onion Patties are proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients to make something truly delicious. They’re crispy, flavorful, and comforting in that old-school way that only fried food can be. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they’re a recipe worth keeping in your back pocket for when you want something quick, satisfying, and a little nostalgic.
Old-Fashioned Onion Patties
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornmeal regular or self-rising
- 2 teaspoons white sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 1/2 cups chopped onions about 1 1/2 large onions
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup cooking oil canola or vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Mix the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Add chopped onions and stir until coated. Pour in milk and mix until you have a thick batter.
Heat the Oil:
- Pour enough oil into a skillet to coat the bottom generously (about 1/4 inch deep). Heat over medium until shimmering.
Fry the Patties:
- Using a 1/4 cup measuring scoop or large spoon, drop batter into the hot oil. Flatten slightly with the back of the spoon. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp. Flip carefully to avoid splashing.
Drain & Serve:
- Transfer patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm with dipping sauce or as a side to burgers, soups, or breakfast platters.
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