Easy Hush Puppies

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Golden, crispy, and deeply comforting, hush puppies are one of those Southern classics that bring warmth to any table. Whether served alongside fried catfish, shrimp, or a big plate of barbecue, these bite-sized cornmeal fritters are always welcome. The best part? You don’t need a culinary degree or fancy equipment to whip up a batch right at home.

This Easy Hush Puppies recipe gives you everything you love: a crisp, golden exterior and a fluffy, flavorful center packed with just the right touch of onion and spice. They’re made with everyday pantry staples and take only a few minutes to fry up. Once you try them fresh and hot out of the oil, you’ll never want the store-bought version again.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Hush Puppies Recipe

These hush puppies strike the perfect balance between crispy and tender. They are budget-friendly, ready in under 30 minutes, and a great way to use up cornmeal sitting in your pantry. The mix of savory and sweet flavors makes them incredibly addictive. They’re also versatile—serve them with dips, use them as a side dish, or just enjoy them on their own as a snack.

What Kind of Cornmeal Should I Use for Hush Puppies?

For the best texture and flavor, go with medium-grind yellow cornmeal. It gives your hush puppies a hearty texture without being too gritty. Avoid using fine cornmeal alone, as it can lead to a denser, less airy result. If you like a more rustic bite, feel free to mix in a little coarse cornmeal.

Ingredients for the Easy Hush Puppies

Every ingredient in these hush puppies plays a role in creating that perfect crisp-tender texture and deep flavor. Here’s what you need:

Cornmeal – The backbone of the recipe. Medium-grind gives the best balance of texture.

All-purpose flour – Lightens the mixture so the hush puppies don’t turn out too dense.

Baking powder – Adds the rise and fluffiness that makes these fritters puff up when fried.

Sugar – A small amount helps balance the savory flavors and enhance the golden browning.

Salt – Brings out all the other flavors.

Onion – Grated or finely chopped, it adds moisture and a sharp savory note.

Buttermilk – The slight tang pairs beautifully with the cornmeal and helps create a tender crumb.

Egg – Binds everything together while adding richness.

Oil for frying – Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola or peanut oil.

How To Make the Easy Hush Puppies

Step 1: Prep the Batter

In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Stir in the finely chopped onion.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Don’t overmix—you want the batter to be thick but scoopable.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F. Use a thermometer to keep the temperature steady.

Step 5: Fry the Hush Puppies

Use a small scoop or spoon to gently drop dollops of batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Remove the hush puppies with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve warm.

How to Serve and Store These Crispy Bites

Hush puppies are at their absolute best when enjoyed hot and fresh, right out of the fryer. The crispy crust and tender inside offer a satisfying contrast that’s hard to beat. They feed about 4 to 6 people as a side dish, depending on how generous your scoops are.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes until heated through and crisped back up. Avoid microwaving as it softens the exterior.

What to Serve With Hush Puppies?

Fried Catfish

This classic pairing brings out the best in both. Crispy fish and fluffy hush puppies are a Southern dream combo.

Barbecue Pulled Pork

The smoky richness of pulled pork balances beautifully with the slight sweetness of the hush puppies.

Spicy Remoulade Sauce

Dip your hush puppies into a creamy, spicy remoulade for an elevated snack or appetizer.

Creamy Coleslaw

Add a refreshing crunch to your plate with a cool and tangy coleslaw.

Southern Greens

Collard or mustard greens simmered low and slow complement the rich texture of the hush puppies.

Gumbo or Jambalaya

Use them to sop up the last bites of a spicy Southern stew or rice dish.

Deviled Eggs

For a picnic-style spread, deviled eggs add another classic Southern bite.

Want More Appetizer Ideas?

If you love these easy hush puppies, you’ll probably enjoy these other tasty favorites too:

• Crispy and Delicious Easy Chinese Egg Rolls Recipe with a crunchy exterior and savory filling.
• Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese for a fun, melty twist on a snack.
• Canned Biscuit Sugar Donuts that fry up quick and sweet.
• Deviled Egg Pasta Salad to complete your Southern-inspired table.
• Loaded Cheese Fries Recipe for the ultimate game day or party treat.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you stick with the classic or add jalapeños or cheese? Do you prefer them with fish or as a snack on their own?

I love hearing your kitchen stories. Questions welcome—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore more homemade favorites on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your next craving!

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