Name: Southern Hush Puppies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 cup cornmeal; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 3/4 cup buttermilk; 1 large egg; Vegetable oil for frying

Golden, crispy, and delightfully tender on the inside, Southern Hush Puppies are the ultimate comfort side. These bite-sized cornmeal fritters have long been a staple of Southern cuisine, typically served alongside fried fish or barbecued meats. But let’s be honest—they’re so good, they often steal the spotlight.

Each hush puppy is a little flavor bomb of slightly sweet cornmeal, savory onion, and just the right hint of spice. Fresh from the fryer, they offer an irresistible crunch followed by a warm, pillowy center. Whether you’re planning a backyard fish fry, holiday meal, or just craving something fried and delicious, these hush puppies will not disappoint.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Hush Puppies

Southern Hush Puppies are a nostalgic, crave-worthy bite that instantly transports you to a Southern kitchen or a seaside fish shack. You’ll love them because:

They’re incredibly quick and easy to whip up.
They offer a perfect balance of crunchy exterior and soft, flavorful interior.
You can customize them with extras like chopped jalapeños, cheese, or even bits of crispy bacon.
They’re ideal for pairing with seafood dishes, barbecue, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
They freeze well, so you can make them ahead for gatherings.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the batter, it helps to gather the right tools—each playing a role in crafting the perfect hush puppy:

Mixing Bowls: You’ll need one for the dry ingredients and one for the wet to combine them smoothly without overmixing.
Whisk & Spatula: A whisk helps break up lumps in your cornmeal and flour, while a spatula is ideal for folding ingredients without deflating the batter.
Ice Cream Scoop or Small Cookie Scoop: For evenly sized hush puppies that fry up uniformly.
Deep Fryer or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: Even heat distribution is crucial, and these tools help maintain a steady frying temperature.
Thermometer: Essential to monitor the oil and ensure it stays around 350°F for that golden, non-greasy finish.
Slotted Spoon or Spider Strainer: For safely retrieving your hush puppies without excess oil.

Ingredients for the Southern Hush Puppies

Cornmeal: The foundation of any hush puppy, offering that classic Southern texture and flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: Balances the cornmeal and gives structure to the batter.
Baking Powder: Ensures the hush puppies puff up lightly and aren’t dense.
Salt: Brings out all the savory flavors in the batter.
Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savoriness.
Onion (grated or finely chopped): Adds depth of flavor and a subtle kick.
Buttermilk: Brings moisture and a slight tang for richer taste.
Egg: Binds everything together for a cohesive dough.
Oil (for frying): Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable or peanut oil.

How To Make the Southern Hush Puppies

Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. This helps distribute everything evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 2: Add the Flavor Boosters

Mix in the finely chopped onion. If you like heat or flavor twists, this is where you can fold in chopped jalapeños or shredded cheese.

Step 3: Stir in Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk and egg together. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir with a spatula until just combined. Don’t overmix—lumps are okay!

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a deep fryer or heavy pot, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F. Use a thermometer to maintain the temperature for even frying.

Step 5: Fry the Hush Puppies

Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, carefully drop tablespoon-sized portions of batter into the oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown all over.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Remove the hush puppies using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. Serve hot and enjoy the crunch!

How to Serve & Store Southern Hush Puppies

Southern Hush Puppies shine brightest when served fresh from the fryer. Pair them with fried catfish, shrimp, or even barbecue for a classic Southern combo. You can also serve them with a dipping sauce like honey butter, spicy remoulade, or even a creamy ranch.

To store, let them cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5–8 minutes to revive the crispiness.

They also freeze beautifully. Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake hush puppies instead of frying them?

Yes, but they won’t be quite the same. Baking results in a drier texture. Use a mini muffin tin at 400°F for about 12–15 minutes.

What’s the best oil for frying hush puppies?

Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best because they handle high heat and don’t add flavor.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to fry them fresh. But you can mix the dry ingredients ahead and store in a jar, adding wet ingredients when you’re ready.

How do I keep hush puppies warm for a crowd?

Place cooked hush puppies on a wire rack set over a baking sheet in a 200°F oven until serving time.

Why are my hush puppies greasy?

If your oil isn’t hot enough (350°F), the batter absorbs too much oil. Always use a thermometer to monitor temp.

Want More Appetizer Ideas?

If you love these Southern Hush Puppies, you’ll probably enjoy these other savory bites:

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

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add jalapeño? Cheese? Maybe both? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other fry smarter.

Hungry for more Southern-inspired bites? Come join me on Pinterest @Americanrecipesbyheart for daily recipes straight from my kitchen to yours!

Southern Hush Puppies

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Author: Kate Walton
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: About 20 hush puppies
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Southern Hush Puppies are the ultimate Southern comfort side—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with cornmeal flavor. These golden bites pair perfectly with seafood and BBQ, making them a crowd-favorite appetizer or side dish.