Fried Hush Puppies
- Brianne Thomas
- Sep 22
- 4 min read
These golden-brown morsels are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them an irresistible treat that pairs perfectly with Southern favorites like gumbo, fish, and BBQ!
We are inching our way closer to cooler temperatures, friends, and that can only mean one thing. Gumbo! And what pairs better with Mobile Bay Style Gumbo than these mouth-watering fried Hush Puppies? No plate of fried fish, bowl of gumbo, or BBQ feast feels complete without a few of these crunchy, fluffy morsels that are bursting with savory cornbread goodness!
What Is A Hush Puppy?
A hush puppy is a thick cornmeal-based batter with simple spices that is formed into a ball shape and then deep-fried to perfection.
The name behind these delicious fried bites has quite a history! I’ve heard the story of fishermen feeding them to their dogs in an attempt to pacify and “hush” them. However, Robert Moss shares other fascinating variations, “that range from silly to stupid.”
Why You’ll Love This Fried Hush Puppy Recipe
Budget Friendly. With just a few affordable pantry staples, this recipe is easy on the pocketbook.
Easy to Prepare. These beauties fry up in no time!
Meal Prep. Fried Hush Puppies can be prepared and frozen, making for easy meal prep.
How To Serve Fried Hush Puppies
Hush Puppies aren’t just for fish fries! I like to serve these right next to a heaping bowl of Mobile Bay Style Gumbo or Slow Cooker Red Beans & Rice. Try them with my Creamy Cajun Dip or drizzled with a bit of raw honey!
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Helpful Tips for Making Fried Hush Puppies
Rest the Batter. Allowing the batter to rest 10-15 minutes before frying allows it to thicken and create a fluffy inner texture.
Don’t Overcrowd. Working in batches will ensure each hush puppy is fried to perfection.
Deep Pot. Use a heavy-bottomed stock pot with high sides or a Dutch oven to avoid excessive grease splatter.
Can I Bake Instead of Fry This Hush Puppies Recipe?
I don’t recommend it. Baked hush puppies tend to result in more of a soft cornbread rather than a crispy outside and tender inside.
Craving More Southern Classics? Check Out These Fan Favorites!
Yield: Approximately 12-15 Hush Puppies
Ingredients
1 ½ cups cornmeal
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 Tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 large egg
1/4 cup grated onion
1 Tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Vegetable oil for frying
Directions
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup cornmeal, ½ cup all-purpose flour, 1 Tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper.
In a separate bowl, whisk together ½ cup buttermilk, 1 large egg, ¼ cup grated onion, and 1 Tablespoon melted unsalted butter.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined.
In a heavy-bottomed stock pot or Dutch oven, heat approximately 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays at a consistent temperature.
Using a small scooper or tablespoon, carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan.
Fry the hush puppies for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Remove them from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate or a wire cooling rack on a baking sheet to drain any excess oil.
Serve the hush puppies warm as a side dish with your favorite Southern meal. They are especially delicious with a Creamy Cajun Dip or a drizzle of honey.
How to Store Fried Hush Puppies
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat them on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
How to Freeze Fried Hush Puppies
Prepare and fry as directed. Allow the Hush Puppies to drain on a paper-towel-lined plate to remove any excess oil. Once they have cooled completely, store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. To reheat, place frozen Hush Puppies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for approximately 12-15 minutes in a 350°F oven.
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