Introduction to Homemade Southern Hush Puppies
Few things say Southern comfort food like a basket of golden, crispy hush puppies. These deep-fried cornmeal bites are a staple at fish fries, BBQs, and family gatherings across the South. With a crunchy exterior and soft, savory center, they’re the perfect side for just about any fried meal—or delicious on their own.
Hush puppies are simple to make and require basic ingredients like cornmeal, buttermilk, and onion. Their origins trace back to Southern U.S. cooking, often served alongside fried catfish or barbecue. You can explore more about their cultural background in this overview of Southern cuisine and how cornmeal plays a starring role in so many traditional dishes.
From backyard cookouts to weeknight dinners, these hush puppies bring old-school flavor with minimal fuss. Want to dress them up or pair them with dips? Check out these Southern hush puppy variations for flavor add-ins like jalapeño, cheddar, or even seafood.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade hush puppy recipe is everything you love about classic Southern comfort food—crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful inside, and packed with just the right amount of savory seasoning. Whether you’re planning a cookout, fish fry, or weeknight comfort meal, these little cornmeal fritters are always a hit.
Made with finely ground cornmeal, a touch of onion, and a bit of buttermilk, hush puppies offer both texture and taste. Their popularity at Southern tables stretches back decades, and they remain a staple in regional cuisine. For a deeper look into how they became a must-have at every fish fry, check out the history of Southern food traditions, where cornbread-based recipes hold a place of pride.
What’s great about this version is its adaptability. You can stick to the classic, or upgrade with add-ins like jalapeños, cheddar cheese, or even sweet corn kernels. Looking for flavor twists and dipping sauces? Explore these creative hush puppy ideas that pair well with barbecue, seafood, or ranch-based dips.
Reasons to Try These Crispy Southern Hush Puppies
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Quick and easy to make—no mixer or fancy tools needed
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Perfect texture with a golden crust and moist center
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Customizable with sweet, spicy, or cheesy variations
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Great for pairing with fried catfish, BBQ, or chili
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Loved by kids and adults alike
With just one bowl and a skillet, these hush puppies bring classic Southern comfort straight to your table—hot, crunchy, and ready to dip.
Ingredient Breakdown and Substitutions
These crispy hush puppies are made with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. They’re proof that simple food, done right, is all you need for big flavor. Whether you keep them classic or dress them up with mix-ins, the base is always dependable.
Key Ingredients
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Cornmeal – Yellow and finely ground for that signature texture
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Flour – Adds structure and balances the crumb
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Baking powder and soda – Ensures they puff up and stay light
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Salt, pepper, and sugar – Just enough seasoning to bring it all together
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Buttermilk – Adds tang and moisture
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Egg – Binds everything for a scoopable batter
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Onion – Adds classic savory depth
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Melted butter (optional) – For a richer, slightly sweet flavor
This base draws on the long history of cornmeal-based Southern recipes, where corn was a staple due to its wide availability and versatility.
Substitution Tips
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Use self-rising cornmeal mix in place of cornmeal + leavening
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Substitute whole milk + lemon juice for buttermilk in a pinch
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Add minced jalapeños or scallions for a punch of flavor
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Mix in shredded cheddar or corn kernels for extra texture
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Fry in peanut oil or canola oil for best flavor and crispness
Need inspiration for hush puppy upgrades? Browse these Southern side dish twists that add fun flair to this traditional recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Mix the dry ingredients
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Combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, soda, salt, pepper, and sugar in a bowl.
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Add the wet ingredients
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Whisk buttermilk and egg separately. Pour into dry mix with chopped onion and optional melted butter.
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Heat oil
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In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat oil to 350°F.
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Form and fry
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Drop rounded spoonfuls of batter into hot oil. Work in batches. Fry 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
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Drain and serve
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Remove with a slotted spoon. Let drain on paper towels. Serve warm.
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Want to see visual inspiration for shape and size? Check out this hush puppy photo board.
Tips for Perfect Hush Puppies
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Don’t overmix the batter—just stir until combined
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Keep oil hot and consistent—check with a thermometer if needed
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Use a cookie scoop for uniform size and easier frying
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Avoid crowding the pan to keep the oil temperature stable
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Taste test the first batch and adjust seasoning if needed
Learn more about frying techniques in this deep-frying basics guide for home cooks.
How to Serve Hush Puppies
These golden cornmeal bites pair beautifully with:
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Fried catfish or shrimp
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Barbecue platters with ribs or pulled pork
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Collard greens or mac and cheese
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Hot sauce, ranch, or honey butter for dipping
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Chili or seafood stew for hearty meals
Looking for more pairing ideas? Explore these Southern picnic combos for your next gathering.
Storage and Reheating Tips
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Store leftovers in an airtight container for 2–3 days
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Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness
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Microwave briefly, though they’ll be softer
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Freeze cooked hush puppies in a single layer, then store in a bag
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Reheat frozen hush puppies in oven or air fryer—no thawing needed
Want to extend the life of fried foods? Learn more from this fried food storage guide.
Variations and Add-Ons
Try customizing your hush puppy batter with these tasty mix-ins:
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Minced jalapeños or green chiles
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Shredded cheese or crumbled bacon
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Grated zucchini or carrots for moisture
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Fresh corn kernels or creamed corn
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Spices like cayenne, smoked paprika, or Cajun seasoning
See more fun ideas on these hush puppy recipe boards.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Oil too cold – Results in greasy, soggy hush puppies
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Overmixing – Makes them tough instead of tender
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Too much batter per scoop – Leads to raw centers
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Not draining excess oil – Causes sogginess
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Skipping the seasoning – Makes them taste flat
For more cornmeal cooking tips, see this cornmeal recipe overview.
FAQs – People Also Ask
Can I bake hush puppies instead of frying?
You can, but they won’t be as crispy. Use a mini muffin tin at 375°F.
Why are my hush puppies greasy?
Your oil may not have been hot enough. Aim for 350°F consistently.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best used fresh, but you can mix it and refrigerate for a few hours.
Do hush puppies contain dairy?
Yes—this recipe uses buttermilk. For dairy-free, use plant milk + vinegar.
Can I freeze hush puppies?
Yes! Cool completely, freeze in a single layer, then store in a sealed container.
This Easy Hush Puppy Recipe is a Southern Favorite
Description
These homemade hush puppies are crispy, golden cornmeal fritters with a soft, savory center. Perfect for fish fries, BBQs, or any Southern-style meal, they’re quick to make and endlessly customizable with cheese, chiles, or spices.
Ingredients
1 cup cornmeal (yellow, finely ground)
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup buttermilk
1 large egg
¼ cup finely chopped onion
1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for richer flavor)
Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar (if using), baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pepper.
In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg. Add to the dry ingredients along with chopped onion and melted butter (if using). Mix until just combined. Do not overmix — batter should be thick.
Heat 2–3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
Using a small cookie scoop or two spoons, carefully drop heaping spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove hush puppies with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Serve warm with dipping sauce, honey butter, or as a classic Southern side.
Notes
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 25 minutes
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Servings: About 20 hush puppies
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Make Ahead: Batter can rest chilled for a few hours
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Best Served: Fresh and hot
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Storage: 3 days refrigerated or 1 month frozen
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Best Oil for Frying: Vegetable, peanut, or canola
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Optional Add-ins: Cheese, corn, bacon, herbs, chiles
