Name: Corn Nuggets
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: Canola oil, for frying; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tsp granulated sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp kosher salt, plus more for sprinkling; ½ cup whole milk; 2 Tbsp salted butter, melted; 1 large egg; 1 (12-oz) package frozen yellow corn, thawed and drained (about 2⅓ cups); Barbecue sauce or Alabama white sauce, for serving (optional)

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Short description

These crispy, golden corn nuggets are a Southern treat that combines sweet corn with a light, crispy batter. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, they’re packed with flavor and easy to make at home. They’re crispy on the outside and tender inside, with a delightful contrast of textures.

Corn Nuggets

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy and satisfying these corn nuggets are. They come together quickly with ingredients I usually have on hand, and the results are always amazing. The sweetness of the corn and the crispy batter work perfectly together, making these nuggets a crowd favorite every time. Plus, they’re versatile and can be customized with different spices or cheeses if I feel like changing things up.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Canola oil, for frying
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tsp granulated sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp kosher salt, plus more for sprinkling
½ cup whole milk
2 Tbsp salted butter, melted
1 large egg
1 (12-oz) package frozen yellow corn (about 2 ⅓ cups), thawed and drained
Barbecue sauce or Alabama white sauce, for serving (optional)

directions

I begin by heating the canola oil in a deep pot (about 1 inch deep) to 350°F (175°C), and I place a wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet to drain the fried nuggets.
In a bowl, I whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, I mix the milk, melted butter, and egg.
I then pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. I gently fold in the corn, making sure not to overmix the batter.
Working in small batches, I drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. I fry them for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy.
Once done, I transfer the nuggets to the wire rack and sprinkle them lightly with salt. I repeat the process until all the batter is fried.
I serve the corn nuggets immediately with a side of barbecue sauce or any dipping sauce I prefer.

Servings and timing

Yields: 8 servings
Active time: About 35 minutes
Total time: About 35 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add shredded cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for extra richness.
A dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño can bring some heat to the recipe.
For a fresher taste, I like to mix in chopped green onions or fresh herbs like cilantro.
If I need a gluten-free version, I swap the flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornmeal.

storage/reheating

I store leftover corn nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes until they’re crispy again. If freezing, I store them in a sealed bag for up to 1 month.

FAQs

What kind of corn works best?

I use frozen yellow sweet corn for these nuggets, but fresh or canned corn can be used as well. Just make sure to drain them well if using canned corn.

Can I make these ahead?

Yes, you can mix the batter a day ahead and refrigerate it. Then, when you’re ready, fry them up fresh for the best texture.

What sauces should I serve with these?

Barbecue sauce or ranch dressing is a great choice, but I also love serving them with garlic aioli, comeback sauce, or even sweet chili sauce.

Are corn nuggets the same as hushpuppies?

Although they are both deep-fried corn dishes, hushpuppies are typically made with cornmeal and are a bit denser. Corn nuggets use flour and feature whole kernels of corn, which give them a lighter, sweeter texture.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or fine cornmeal. The texture might be a bit different, but they will still turn out delicious.

Conclusion

These corn nuggets are a perfect snack or side dish to add a little Southern flair to any meal. Crispy, sweet, and so satisfying, they’re always a hit at family gatherings, parties, or just a cozy dinner at home. I know they’ll become a favorite in your kitchen, just as they are in mine!