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Classic Hush Puppies Recipe for a Perfect Side Dish


  • Author: Sara McKenney
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 20 hush puppies

Description

Crispy on the outside, fluffy and flavorful on the inside — this Classic Hush Puppies recipe is a must-have side dish for any Southern-inspired meal. Made with simple pantry ingredients like cornmeal, buttermilk, and onion, these golden bites come together quickly and fry up in minutes. Whether you’re hosting a fish fry or looking for easy dinner ideas, quick comfort food, or a savory snack, these hush puppies are the perfect solution. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a cozy night in — these are the easy recipe your table needs.


Ingredients

1 cup yellow cornmeal

½ cup all-purpose flour

1½ teaspoons baking powder

¼ teaspoon baking soda

1 tablespoon sugar

½ teaspoon salt

¾ cup buttermilk

1 large egg

½ cup finely chopped onion

Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut)


Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt.

2. In a separate bowl, beat the buttermilk and egg until smooth.

3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently fold until just combined.

4. Stir in the chopped onion, being careful not to overmix.

5. Heat 2 inches of oil in a skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).

6. Scoop small balls of batter (about 1 tablespoon each) and gently drop into hot oil.

7. Fry in batches, turning occasionally, for 3–4 minutes or until golden brown.

8. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

9. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside fried fish, chili, or BBQ.

Notes

Let the batter rest for 5–10 minutes before frying to improve texture.

Keep the oil temperature consistent to avoid greasy or undercooked hush puppies.

Add-ins like jalapeños or cheddar cheese can enhance flavor and variety.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 hush puppy
  • Calories: 85
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 140mg
  • Fat: 4.5g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Protein: 1.5g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: hush puppies, Southern side dish, easy fried recipe, classic hush puppies, comfort food, party snack