Easy Hush Puppies

Save this recipe on:

Crispy on the outside, soft and tender inside—these Easy Hush Puppies are the ultimate Southern comfort food snack. Whether you’re frying up a batch for a backyard barbecue or serving them alongside a hearty seafood dinner, hush puppies add a golden, satisfying crunch that disappears faster than you can say “pass the hot sauce.”

Made with simple pantry staples and no-fuss technique, these hush puppies are lightly sweet with just the right savory kick. Cornmeal creates the signature texture, while onion adds an aromatic layer of flavor in every bite. They’re quick to prep and fry, making them ideal for last-minute cravings or crowd-pleasing appetizers.

---

Why You’ll Love This Easy Hush Puppies Recipe

These hush puppies are more than just a side dish—they’re a crave-worthy treat in their own right. They pair perfectly with fried fish, chili, or even just a drizzle of honey butter. The recipe uses affordable ingredients and requires minimal kitchen tools, making it a budget-friendly favorite you’ll come back to often.

---

What Type of Cornmeal Is Best for Hush Puppies?

Opt for finely ground yellow cornmeal for the best texture and classic flavor. Coarse cornmeal can make the hush puppies too gritty, while a fine grind ensures a smooth, tender bite. If you love a little extra crunch, you can use a mix of fine and medium-ground cornmeal.

---

Ingredients for the Easy Hush Puppies

Every ingredient in this hush puppy recipe contributes to its golden, fluffy, flavor-packed result:

Cornmeal – This is the heart of hush puppies. It gives them their signature taste and crispy edge.

All-Purpose Flour – Helps bind the dough and softens the texture slightly so it isn’t overly gritty.

Sugar – Just a touch adds balance to the savory flavors.

Baking Powder & Baking Soda – These are the leavening agents that help create a fluffy, light interior.

Salt – Brings out the full flavor of all ingredients.

Buttermilk – Adds tang and moisture to the batter, and reacts with the baking soda for extra lift.

Egg – Helps hold the batter together while enriching the dough.

Grated Onion – Adds sharpness and depth, a classic hush puppy must.

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

---

How To Make the Easy Hush Puppies

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Make a well in the center and add buttermilk, egg, and grated onion. Stir gently just until the batter is moistened and everything comes together. Don’t overmix—a slightly lumpy batter is perfect.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Pour oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven to about 2 inches deep. Heat it to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to keep it consistent for even frying.

Step 4: Fry the Hush Puppies

Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, carefully drop rounded tablespoons of batter into the hot oil. Fry 5-6 at a time for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until deep golden brown.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. Let them cool slightly before serving. Best enjoyed warm.

---

How to Serve and Store Hush Puppies

These hush puppies serve up to 6 people as a side or appetizer. They’re best eaten fresh out of the fryer when they’re at peak crispiness. If you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, which can make them soggy.

---

What to Serve With Easy Hush Puppies?

Fried Catfish

A Southern classic! The flaky, seasoned fish with crispy hush puppies is unbeatable.

Chili or Chowder

Dip these into a rich, meaty chili or creamy corn chowder for cozy comfort.

BBQ Pulled Pork

Balance smoky meat with the sweet-savory crunch of hush puppies.

Creamy Coleslaw

A cool, tangy slaw adds contrast to the warm, crunchy bites.

Fried Chicken

Double the crispy goodness with a side of hush puppies and hot sauce.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna

The buttery, garlicky pasta pairs beautifully with the texture of hush puppies. Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna

Easy Veggie Patties

Want to go meatless? These hush puppies go perfectly with Easy Veggie Patties

Spicy Sailor’s Dip

Dip those crispy balls into something bold like our Spicy Sailor’s Dip.

---

Want More Snack & Appetizer Ideas?

If these golden bites hit the spot, check out more crispy favorites from the kitchen:

• Crispy Fried Mushrooms when you want a meaty crunch with a vegetarian twist.
• Deep Dish Pizza Cupcakes for a cheesy, saucy surprise.
• Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs if you’re in the mood for beefy bites.
• Taco Ranch Bites that burst with southwest flair.
• Cowboy Caviar for a fresh and zesty scoopable side.

---

Save This Pin For Later

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

Let us know how your batch turned out in the comments below! Did you add a spicy twist or a dash of cheese? Share your version with us.

Explore more beautifully curated snack recipes on Nora Nosh Recipes Pinterest for your next crispy craving!

Print

Save this recipe on: