Name: Homemade Hush Puppies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 box Jiffy cornbread mix; 1/2 cup onion, grated; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Vegetable oil, for frying

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There’s nothing quite like a batch of homemade hush puppies fresh from the fryer. I love how they turn out perfectly crispy on the outside while staying light, fluffy, and tender on the inside. The combination of sweet cornbread, savory onion, and simple seasonings creates a classic Southern side dish that pairs beautifully with seafood, barbecue, fried chicken, or even as a delicious snack with my favorite dipping sauce.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 box Jiffy cornbread mix

½ cup onion, grated

½ cup all-purpose flour

1 large egg

½ cup milk

¼ teaspoon garlic powder

¼ teaspoon black pepper

Vegetable oil, for frying

Directions

I combine the Jiffy cornbread mix, all-purpose flour, grated onion, garlic powder, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl.

I add the egg and milk, then stir just until a thick batter forms, making sure not to overmix.

I heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).

Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, I carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil.

I fry the hush puppies in batches for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until they are beautifully golden brown and cooked through.

I remove them with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

I serve them warm with butter, honey, tartar sauce, or my favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: Approximately 210 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes add shredded cheddar cheese for an extra rich and cheesy flavor. When I want a little heat, I mix diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the batter. Chopped green onions or fresh parsley bring a fresh twist, while cooked crumbled bacon makes these hush puppies even more satisfying. For a sweeter version, I like serving them with a drizzle of honey or hot honey.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers, I let the hush puppies cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When I’m ready to enjoy them again, I reheat them in a 375°F oven or in an air fryer for 5 to 8 minutes until they become hot and crispy again. I avoid using the microwave because it softens their crispy exterior.

FAQs

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

I prefer making the batter just before frying because it produces the lightest and crispiest hush puppies. If needed, I can refrigerate the batter for about an hour before cooking.

Why are my hush puppies falling apart while frying?

I make sure the oil is fully heated to 350°F before frying, and I avoid making the batter too thin. A thick batter helps the hush puppies hold their shape.

Can I bake hush puppies instead of frying them?

Yes. I can bake them in a lightly greased mini muffin pan at 400°F until they are golden brown, although they won't be quite as crispy as the fried version.

What can I serve with hush puppies?

I enjoy serving them with fried fish, shrimp, barbecue, pulled pork, fried chicken, chili, or coleslaw. They also pair well with tartar sauce, honey butter, or spicy remoulade.

Can I freeze cooked hush puppies?

Yes. I freeze the cooled hush puppies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. I reheat them directly from frozen in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispy texture.

Conclusion

I always enjoy making these homemade hush puppies because they are quick, comforting, and packed with classic Southern flavor. Their crispy exterior and fluffy center make them the perfect addition to seafood dinners, barbecue feasts, or family meals. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few easy steps, I can prepare a side dish that everyone looks forward to enjoying.

📖 Recipe:

Homemade Hush Puppies

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These homemade hush puppies are crispy on the outside and light, fluffy, and tender on the inside. Made with Jiffy cornbread mix, grated onion, and simple seasonings, they are a classic Southern side dish perfect with seafood, barbecue, or fried chicken.