Perfect Gluten-Free Hushpuppies

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Golden, crispy, and incredibly satisfying, these Perfect Gluten-Free Hushpuppies are the ultimate sidekick for any Southern-inspired meal. Made with a blend of cornmeal and gluten-free flour, they boast a delightfully crunchy exterior with a tender, fluffy interior. Whether you pair them with fried fish, grilled meats, or just dip them in your favorite sauce, they’re bound to steal the show.

These hushpuppies are a celebration of simplicity and comfort. Infused with a hint of onion, subtly sweet, and seasoned just right, they’re fried to perfection without any of the gluten. And the best part? You can whip them up in less than 30 minutes with pantry staples!

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Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free Hushpuppies Recipe

These hushpuppies check all the right boxes:

• Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside
• Naturally gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free
• Quick to make – less than 30 minutes from start to finish
• Customizable with add-ins like chopped jalapeños or cheese
• Perfect for snacking, sides, or appetizers

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What Kind of Cornmeal Works Best?

For this recipe, use fine or medium-ground yellow cornmeal. Stone-ground cornmeal gives a coarser texture, which some people love, but for that classic hushpuppy mouthfeel, a smoother grind works best. Make sure it’s labeled gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

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Ingredients for the Perfect Gluten-Free Hushpuppies

Each ingredient in this hushpuppy recipe has a purpose, coming together to create a satisfying crunch and flavor in every bite.

• Yellow Cornmeal – The star of the show, giving the hushpuppies their signature texture and flavor.
• Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour – Balances the cornmeal and helps bind the batter.
• Baking Powder – Adds the necessary lift for a light and fluffy inside.
• Sugar – A touch of sweetness enhances the corn flavor.
• Salt – Essential for balance.
• Buttermilk – Brings tanginess and moisture. You can substitute with dairy-free milk plus a splash of vinegar.
• Egg – Helps hold everything together.
• Finely Chopped Onion – Adds savory depth.
• Oil for Frying – Neutral oils like canola or vegetable work best.

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How To Make the Perfect Gluten-Free Hushpuppies

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, gluten-free flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until evenly combined.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Stir in the buttermilk and egg until a thick batter forms. Fold in the chopped onion last. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes while your oil heats up.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). A thermometer is helpful here to maintain steady temperature.

Step 4: Scoop and Fry

Using a small cookie scoop or two spoons, gently drop the batter into the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crisp.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Use a slotted spoon to transfer the hushpuppies to a paper towel-lined plate. Let cool slightly and serve warm.

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How to Serve and Store Gluten-Free Hushpuppies

This recipe makes about 18-20 hushpuppies, enough to feed 4 to 6 people as a side dish.

Serve immediately while warm for that irresistible crispiness. They pair beautifully with dipping sauces, honey butter, or classic Southern mains.

To store leftovers, let them cool completely and place in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F to bring back the crisp.

Freezing? Absolutely! Flash freeze on a tray, then store in a zip-top bag for up to a month. Reheat straight from frozen in the oven.

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What to Serve With Gluten-Free Hushpuppies

Fried Catfish

The classic combo! Crispy fish and golden hushpuppies are made for each other.

BBQ Pulled Pork

Let the hushpuppies soak up the juicy, smoky flavors of pulled pork.

Creamy Coleslaw

A refreshing, crunchy contrast to the warm hushpuppies.

Southern Collard Greens

Add a hearty, earthy side to round out the meal.

Shrimp and Grits

Level up your Southern-style dinner with hushpuppies on the side.

Chili

Dip these puppies in a warm, spicy chili bowl.

Deviled Eggs

For parties and potlucks, these make the perfect bite-sized partner.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

Bright and light, this balances out the richness of the fried bites.

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Want More Appetizer Ideas?

If you loved these Perfect Gluten-Free Hushpuppies, check out some of our other irresistible starters and snacks:

• Easy Veggie Patties – A Crispy, Flavorful Delight
• Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs
• Taco Ranch Bites – A Flavor-Packed Mini Delight
• Deep Dish Pizza Cupcakes
• Creamy Irresistible Crack Dip

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

And if you make these hushpuppies, let me know in the comments below! Did you try any add-ins like cheese or spices? What did you serve them with?

I love hearing how you put your own spin on it. Questions welcome too — let’s make your next batch even better!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and comfort food recipes on Nora Nosh Recipes and discover your new go-to favorites!

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