Name: Hush Puppies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups fine cornmeal; 0.5 cup all-purpose flour; 1.25 teaspoons kosher salt (adjust to taste); 2 teaspoons baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon baking soda; 0.25 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust based on spice preference); 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.75 teaspoon granulated sugar; 0.5 small yellow onion (grated); 1 large egg; 1 cup buttermilk; 4 cups canola or vegetable oil (for frying)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself at a Southern seafood joint or a cozy barbecue spot, you’ve likely encountered the delightful crunch of hush puppies. These golden-brown cornmeal fritters, often served alongside fried fish or shrimp, are a comforting side dish that encapsulates the essence of Southern cuisine. With a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful center, they are the perfect accompaniment to any meal, but they shine brightest on their own with a bit of dipping sauce. Today, I’m excited to share my go-to hush puppies recipe that’s simple, delicious, and sure to impress your family and friends.

Why It’s My Go-To

This hush puppies recipe is my favorite because it combines classic ingredients with a few personal touches, making it a unique twist on a beloved Southern staple. The addition of garlic powder and Cajun seasoning gives these hush puppies an extra layer of flavor that elevates them beyond the ordinary. Plus, they are easy to whip up for a weeknight dinner or for a festive gathering. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of frying magic, you can create a dish that brings everyone to the table.

Ingredient Notes

Fine cornmeal: This is the star of the show! Use fine cornmeal for that authentic texture. It creates a tender bite while still providing that beloved corny flavor.
All-purpose flour: Just a bit of flour helps bind the mixture, giving the hush puppies structure.
Kosher salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients. Adjust to taste if needed.
Baking powder: This is crucial for leavening, helping your hush puppies puff up beautifully as they fry.
Baking soda: A little goes a long way in creating that perfect golden crust.
Cajun or Creole seasoning: Adds a lovely kick! Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
Garlic powder: A subtle hint of garlic enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.
Granulated sugar: Just a touch of sweetness balances the savory elements and rounds out the flavors.
Yellow onion: Grated onion adds moisture and a sweet, savory depth to each bite.
Large egg: Acts as a binder, helping to hold everything together.
Buttermilk: The acidity in buttermilk not only tenderizes the batter but also adds a delightful tang.
Canola or vegetable oil: For frying, choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point to achieve that perfect crispy exterior.

Equipment & Tools

Large mixing bowl: For combining all your ingredients.
Whisk: To mix your dry ingredients and incorporate the wet ingredients smoothly.
Grater: For grating the onion finely.
Deep frying pot or heavy skillet: Essential for frying the hush puppies evenly and safely.
Slotted spoon: To scoop out the hush puppies once they’re golden brown.
Paper towels: For draining excess oil after frying.

Stepwise Method: Hush Puppies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of fine cornmeal, ½ cup of all-purpose flour, 1 ¼ teaspoons of kosher salt, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ¼ teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and ¾ teaspoon of granulated sugar. Whisk the dry ingredients together until well blended.

Step 2: Add Onion and Wet Ingredients

Grate ½ small yellow onion and add it to the dry mixture. Then, in a separate bowl, whisk together 1 large egg and 1 cup of buttermilk. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a deep frying pot or heavy skillet, heat 4 cups of canola or vegetable oil over medium-high heat. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface.

Step 4: Fry the Hush Puppies

Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to remove the hush puppies and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your hush puppies warm, with your choice of dipping sauces, such as tartar sauce, remoulade, or even a spicy aioli. They’re best enjoyed fresh but are also delightful at room temperature.

Season-by-Season Upgrades

Spring: Add fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a vibrant touch.
Summer: Incorporate sweet corn kernels for a burst of sweetness and texture.
Fall: Mix in diced jalapeños for a spicy kick, or replace some cornmeal with pumpkin puree for a seasonal twist.
Winter: Use a pinch of smoked paprika for a warm, smoky flavor that’s perfect for chilly nights.

Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary

Hush puppies are incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or add-ins based on your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning, or leave it out altogether. You can also play around with the onion; if you want a sweeter flavor, consider using green onions or shallots instead. The key to perfect hush puppies lies in the frying process—make sure your oil is hot enough to create that crispy exterior without absorbing too much oil.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

Hush puppies are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an air fryer or oven at 350°F until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.

Common Qs About Hush Puppies Recipe

Can I make hush puppies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 hours before frying. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely.

What can I serve with hush puppies?

Hush puppies pair wonderfully with fried fish, shrimp, coleslaw, or even a hearty bowl of gumbo. They also make a great snack on their own!

Can I bake hush puppies instead of frying them?

While frying gives you that classic crispy texture, you can bake hush puppies at 400°F on a greased baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes. They won’t be as crispy, but they will still be delicious!

How do I know when the hush puppies are done frying?

Hush puppies are done when they are golden brown and float to the top of the oil. Typically, they take about 3-4 minutes per side in hot oil. Use a slotted spoon to test one for doneness.

Keep Cooking

Sally’s Baking Addiction – For more delightful baking recipes.
Pinch of Yum – For incredible meal inspirations and food photography.
Minimalist Baker – For simple, delicious recipes with a focus on whole foods.

That’s a Wrap

It’s time to gather your loved ones and whip up a batch of these irresistible hush puppies! With their crunchy exterior and tender interior, they are bound to become a favorite at your table. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed as a snack, this hush puppies recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking!