24 Best Side Dishes to Serve with Corn Cakes

Corn cakes are a delicious and unique side dish that can add flavor and texture to any meal.

Whether you’re making them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, corn cakes are the perfect way to add a bit of variety to your plate.

They’re easy to make, inexpensive, and oh-so-delicious. 

But what about the side dishes? Don’t worry – we have some creative ideas that will help you kick up your dinner game!

So, just stay with me to taste all these beautiful combinations.

A Quick solution for what to serve with corn cakes –

Stir-Fried Veggies, Fruit Salad, Tomato Salsa, Green Beans With Garlic Butter Sauce, Fruity Salsas, Creamy Salads, Savory Toppings, Baked Beans, Guacamole, Salsa, Cheese, Sour Cream, Honey, Bacon Bits, Chili Powder, Avocado, Chopped Herbs, Shredded Coconut, Crumbled Bacon, Nut Butter, Maple Syrup, Jam or Jelly, Shredded Cheese, Spices.

What are corn cakes? What do corncakes taste like?

Corn cakes are a type of cornbread that is made with flour, sugar, eggs, butter or oil, and cornmeal.

They are usually shallow-fried in a skillet and served as a side dish. 

Corn cakes vary in flavor depending on the ingredients used to make them; however, they typically have a sweet, savory taste with hints of buttery goodness.

Depending on how they’re prepared, they can also be crispy on the outside while still being light and fluffy inside.

Corn cakes can be served as an appetizer or side dish for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and often come topped with sour cream or honey.

They also pair well with various sauces, such as salsa or guacamole, for added flavor. Corn cakes are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways.

Best foods to serve with corn cakes

1. Stir-Fried Veggies

For a quick and healthy side dish, you can try stir-frying vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, bell peppers, and mushrooms.

Just add a bit of oil to a hot pan and let the veggies cook until they’re tender. You can also apply spices like garlic powder or red pepper flakes to give them some extra flavor.

2. Fruit Salad

Fruit salad is always a crowd-pleaser and goes perfectly with corn cakes. Use whatever fruits are in season, or mix it up with your favorite fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, pineapple, kiwi, and oranges.

For added sweetness, you can drizzle on some honey or maple syrup.

3. Tomato Salsa

For something a bit spicier, you can whip up a batch of tomato salsa! It’s super easy.

Just chop up some tomatoes (or use canned tomatoes if you don’t have fresh ones), onion, jalapeno (optional), and cilantro leaves (optional) and combine all of the ingredients together into one bowl.

tomato salsa is good to serve with corn cakes
Tomato Salsa

Apply pepper and salt to taste, and serve it with your corn cakes!

4. Green Beans With Garlic Butter Sauce

This one might sound fancy, but it’s really not that hard to make! You can just blanch the green beans in boiling water for about 3 minutes, then drain them and set them aside.

In the same pot melt butter over medium heat then add minced garlic cloves until fragrant. 

Add the green beans back into the pot, then season with salt and pepper before serving them alongside your corn cakes!

More: What to serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp

5. Fruity Salsas 

Adding fruity salsas is an easy way to bring vibrant flavors into your meal. For example, you can try making mango salsa as a pairing for sweet corn cakes. 

This is a great method to increase your flavor profile while adding a bit of crunch and color. You can also mix in some diced jalapenos for extra spice.

For an even sweeter version, you can try making pineapple salsa! It pairs well with savory meats like pork or chicken, as well as sweet corn cakes.

6. Creamy Salads 

For something more substantial, pair your corn cakes with creamy salads. One great option is potato salad topped with bacon bits and diced chives.

The creamy potatoes will balance out the sweetness of the corn cakes while adding texture and flavor.

Another great option is broccoli slaw made with Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise – it’s healthier but just as delicious! 

You can also mix in diced apples or dried cranberries for added sweetness and crunch.

7. Savory Toppings 

Finally, top off your corn cakes with savory toppings like crispy bacon bits, diced tomatoes, or shredded cheese. 

These all make great additions that will help enhance the flavor of the dish without overpowering it. Or, if you want something more unique, you can try topping them with sliced olives or capers!

The salty briny flavor will be the perfect complement to the sweetness of the corn cakes.

8. Baked Beans

Rich in protein, baked beans are a great partner to serve with corn cakes as they provide a savory flavor and texture that complements the crunchy texture of the cakes.

9. Guacamole

The creamy texture of guacamole pairs perfectly with the crunchy exterior of a corn cake. It adds a zesty flavor that is sure to bring your meal up a notch!

10. Salsa

For those looking for a more tangy option, salsa makes an excellent topping for corn cakes.

The combination of the spiciness of the salsa and the sweetness of the corncake will be sure to tantalize your taste buds.

11. Cheese

Adding some cheese to your corn cakes is a great way to add protein and extra flavor to your dish. 

Whether you are using cheddar or mozzarella, this classic topping will make your meal complete.

12. Sour Cream

If you’re searching for something a little bit different than just plain old butter, sour cream makes an excellent match.

The sourness of the cream adds an interesting flavor to your corn cakes that will leave you wanting more.

13. Honey

For those looking for something a little bit sweeter, honey is a great topping option. Drizzle some over the top of your warm corn cakes and enjoy the sweet taste that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.

14. Bacon Bits

Bacon bits make a great topping choice as they add a crunchy texture and smoky flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the corncakes.

bacon bits are great to serve with corn cakes
Bacon Bits

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some diced jalapenos or chili peppers for a spicier kick!

15. Chili Powder

Sprinkling some chili powder over your corn cakes is a great way to add some extra flavor and spice. 

The combination of the sweetness from the corncake and the smokiness of the chili powder is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

16. Avocado

Adding some avocado to your corn cakes will give them an added oomph in flavor and texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some diced tomatoes or onions for even more flavor!

17. Chopped Herbs

For a simple but flavorful topping, you can be chopped herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or chives make an excellent choice.

These aromatic herbs will bring out the natural flavors of your corn cakes and are sure to be a hit with all your guests.

18. Shredded Coconut

For a sweeter and more tropical twist, you can try adding some shredded coconut to your corn cakes.

The combination of the crunchy texture of the coconut and the sweetness of the corncake is sure to be a hit with everyone at your table.

19. Crumbled Bacon

For an extra smoky flavor, you can try adding crumbled bacon to your corn cakes. The combination of salty and sweet will be a favorite among all your family and friends!

20. Nut Butter

Adding nut butter such as peanut or almond butter gives your corn cakes an added level of richness in flavor. 

This creamy topping taste perfectly with the crunchiness of the corncakes for a meal that will satisfy any craving.

21. Maple Syrup

For a classic topping that never fails, you can try adding some maple syrup to your corn cakes. The combination of sweet and salty is sure to leave everyone at the table wanting more!

22. Jam or Jelly

If you’re looking for something a little bit sweeter, you can try adding some jam or jelly as a topping for your corn cakes. 

This sugary treat will add an extra level of sweetness that is sure to please everyone in attendance!

23. Shredded Cheese

A great way to make your corn cakes extra cheesy is by topping them with shredded cheese. Cheddar, mozzarella, or any other kind of melting cheese works great and adds an extra level of flavor that everyone will love.

shredded cheese is great to serve with corn cakes
Shredded Cheese

24. Spices

For those looking to spice up their corn cakes, you can add some spices such as cinnamon, cumin, or chili powder makes a great topping.

The combination of the sweetness from the corncake and the spiciness from the spices is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table!

What are the best flavors to go with corncakes?

There are many wonderful flavor combinations that work well with corn cakes.

Some of the most popular include honey and butter, maple syrup, cinnamon and sugar, jam or jelly, applesauce, sour cream and chives, cheddar cheese and bacon bits, or simply served plain with a dollop of butter. 

Whatever your preference is, there’s sure to be a delicious combination you’ll love.

Another great way to enjoy corn cakes is to top them with fresh fruits such as blueberries, raspberries or strawberries for a sweet treat.

You can also pair them with savory toppings like smoked salmon and crème fraiche for an interesting flavor experience.

Corn cakes are extremely versatile, so don’t be afraid to get creative when it comes to finding the perfect topping!

If you’re searching for a quick and easy meal, corncakes are a great option.

You can top them with anything from scrambled eggs and bacon to chili or even your favorite soup – they make a hearty and delicious meal in no time. Enjoy trying out different flavor combinations with your next batch of corn cakes!

How do you jazz up corncakes?

Adding a variety of toppings can instantly transform plain corn cakes into something more exciting. Try adding diced tomatoes, avocado slices, chopped onions, jalapenos, shredded cheese or salsa for a Tex-Mex twist.

For sweet corn cakes, try a dollop of peanut butter and banana slices or melted marshmallows with chocolate sauce.

You could also try topping them with cream cheese and lox or smoked salmon for a savory flavor.

Other ideas include pesto, hummus and roasted vegetables such as bell peppers and mushrooms. 

Experiment to find the combination that you like best! To make it even easier, you can use store-bought sauces like teriyaki glaze or BBQ sauce to top your corn cakes too. Enjoy

How do you display corn cakes on a platter?

To display corn cakes on a platter, start by arranging them in a single layer on the platter. Place larger cakes or those with more elaborate toppings in the center, if desired.

Next, arrange any garnishes around the perimeter of the cakes for a decorative touch.

Finally, add any accompaniments to the side of the platter in separate dishes, such as butter and jam. Enjoy your presentation!

Conclusion on what to serve with corn cakes

There are so many ways to enjoy corn cakes beyond their traditional accompaniments – all you need is a little creativity!

From fruity salsas to creamy salads to savory toppings, there’s no limit when it comes to finding new ways to enjoy this beloved side dish. 

So don’t be afraid to experiment; you never know what tasty combination you might stumble upon! Bon appetit!

FAQs on what to serve with corn cakes

Q1. How many corn cakes per person?

The number of corn cakes per person can vary depending on how big or small you make them. Generally, it is recommended to plan for about two-three small corn cakes per person as a side dish or one large corn cake as an entree.

If you are serving more than three people and want to ensure everyone has enough, consider making four-five small corn cakes per person.

Additionally, when preparing a meal for a larger family gathering or party, it may be wise to double the recipe so that there will be plenty of food to go around. No matter what, these flavorful little snacks are sure to be crowd-pleasers! Enjoy!

Q2. What meat goes best with corn?

The answer to this question really depends on personal preference and regional cuisine. In the United States, pork is often a popular choice when it comes to cooking with corn. Popular dishes include pork chops with creamed corn, smoked pork shoulder with grilled corn, or bacon-wrapped Cornish game hens stuffed with fresh cornbread stuffing.

Other delicious meats that go well with corn are chicken, beef, lamb, and turkey. Summer barbecue favorites like grilled kebabs featuring cubes of meat and kernels of juicy sweetcorn make for a mouthwatering combination. One of the most classic pairings is roasted turkey served alongside a hearty helping of succotash—a traditional New England dish made from lima beans and sweetcorn.

Q3. How do you serve corn at a party?

Serving corn at a party is a great way to provide your guests with a delicious and nutritious side dish. There are several different ways you can serve corn, depending on the type of food that you’re serving and the size of your gathering.

If you’re hosting an outdoor or casual event, grilled corn on the cob is always a hit. Simply shuck the ears of corn, and sprinkle them with olive oil, seasonings, and salt before wrapping them in foil and grilling over medium heat.

For more formal events, you could choose to bake whole ears of corn in their husks in the oven or slice off kernels to create a succotash salad using vegetables like green beans, onions, peppers, and tomatoes.

If you’re searching for something different, try using corn in recipes like chowder, fritters, or tamales. And don’t forget about sweet corn desserts like cakes, pies, and cobblers! No matter what type of meal you are planning to serve your guests, adding some delicious corn dishes is sure to make your party a hit.

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