Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Homemade Hush Puppies – Light, Crispy & So Easy!

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Golden and crispy on the outside with a tender, fluffy center, these homemade hush puppies are a classic Southern side dish. Quick to prepare with simple pantry ingredients, they deliver restaurant-quality flavor in just 20 minutes.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 20–24 hush puppies (about 6 servings)

Ingredients

  • 1 box (8.5 ounces) cornbread mix
  • 1 cup finely grated onion
  • 5 tablespoons buttermilk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 to 3 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

  1. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine cornbread mix, flour, baking powder, sugar, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
  3. Add grated onion, buttermilk, and egg to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until a thick batter forms. Do not overmix.
  4. Carefully drop tablespoon-sized spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding.
  5. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
  6. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  7. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside seafood, barbecue, or chili.

Notes

  • Ensure oil reaches 350°F to prevent greasy hush puppies.
  • Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light and fluffy.
  • Bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes in a mini muffin tin for a lighter option.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat in a 350°F oven or air fryer to restore crispness.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Southern American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 hush puppies
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 480 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg