There’s something so comforting about a basket of warm hush puppies fresh out of the fryer. They’re golden, crunchy, and just the right amount of fluffy inside. I grew up having them with fried fish and barbecue nights, and honestly, they’ve always been the best part of the meal. What I love most about making hush puppies at home is how quick and easy they are. You only need a few pantry staples, and before you know it, you’re biting into a hot, crispy little ball of cornmeal goodness.

Recipe Details

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: About 4 to 6
Calories: Around 190 per serving (for 3 to 4 hush puppies)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy outside, soft and airy inside.
• Easy to make in just one bowl.
• Perfect side dish for fried fish, chicken, or barbecue.
• Delicious plain or with honey butter or tartar sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup cornmeal
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a little kick)
• ½ cup finely chopped onion
• ¾ cup buttermilk
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• Oil for frying

How to Make Hush Puppies

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients
   In a medium bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cayenne pepper. Whisk to blend everything evenly.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients
   Stir in the chopped onion, buttermilk, and egg until a thick batter forms. It should be soft but not runny.
3. Heat the Oil
   Pour about 2 inches of oil into a deep skillet or saucepan and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Test the temperature by dropping a bit of batter in it should sizzle and rise to the top right away.
4. Fry the Hush Puppies
   Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides, about 2 to 3 minutes per batch.
5. Drain and Serve
   Remove the hush puppies with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve them warm with dipping sauce, honey butter, or alongside your favorite main dish.

Tips for Success

• Keep the oil hot enough so the hush puppies cook quickly without soaking up too much oil.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan or they’ll cook unevenly.
• If you like extra flavor, stir in chopped jalapeños or shredded cheese into the batter.