Fried Hushpuppies

Name: Fried Hushpuppies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cornmeal; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 large egg; 1 small onion, finely chopped; Vegetable oil for frying

Highlighted under: Slow Cooker Meals

I absolutely love making fried hushpuppies, especially during summer cookouts. These little golden nuggets of cornbread are incredibly easy to make and pair perfectly with just about any Southern dish. Each bite is crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, making them irresistibly delicious. I always find myself sneaking a few before dinner is served, and my family can’t get enough of them either. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make them a regular addition to your meals!

Created by

The Chefannaskitchen Team

Last updated on 2026-03-16T10:07:29.728Z

Making fried hushpuppies has always been a favorite activity in my kitchen. I recall the first time I attempted them, and the house was filled with that amazing frying aroma that instantly made my mouth water. The key to achieving the perfect texture lies in cooking them at the right temperature—not too hot, or they'll burn, and not too cool, or they'll absorb too much oil.

Over the years, I've experimented with various additions such as diced jalapeños and spices, but I've found that keeping it simple really lets the cornbread flavor shine. I also recommend serving them immediately after frying for that irresistible crunch that everyone loves!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Crispy outside and fluffy inside for the perfect bite
Versatile – great as a side dish or snack
Quick to prepare, making them ideal for a last-minute treat

The Role of Cornmeal

Cornmeal is the star ingredient in hushpuppies, providing not only the base for the batter but also contributing to their unique texture. The coarseness of cornmeal creates the characteristic crunch on the outside while allowing for a tender interior. It's crucial to choose the right grind; fine cornmeal will yield a denser hushpuppy, while medium or coarse will enhance the texture more. If you find cornmeal too grainy for your taste, consider sifting it or mixing in a bit of all-purpose flour to achieve your ideal consistency.

Additionally, the flavor of the cornmeal will impact your hushpuppies significantly. If you want to experiment, look for stone-ground cornmeal, which has a richer corn flavor and retains more nutrients. It may require slight adjustments in the liquid ratio due to its absorbency, but the resulting flavor enhancement is worth it.

Frying Tips for Perfect Hushpuppies

When frying your hushpuppies, maintaining the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) is critical for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust. Using a deep-fry thermometer can prevent the oil from becoming too hot, which could cause the hushpuppies to burn on the outside while remaining raw on the inside. If you notice that they are browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly to allow the insides to cook through without sacrificing the outer crispiness.

To ensure uniformly shaped hushpuppies, consider using a cookie scoop or a small ice cream scoop. This technique not only keeps your hushpuppies consistent in size but also helps them cook evenly. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to a drop in oil temperature; instead, fry them in batches, allowing each to achieve that sought-after crunch before moving onto the next.

Ingredients

Hushpuppy Ingredients

1 cup cornmeal
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup buttermilk
1 large egg
1 small onion, finely chopped
Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the chopped onion.

Heat the Oil

In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) over medium heat. A deep-fry thermometer can help ensure the right temperature for frying.

Fry the Hushpuppies

Using a tablespoon or small ice cream scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the hushpuppies to a paper towel-lined plate.

Serve

Serve the hushpuppies warm with your favorite dipping sauce, or enjoy them as is!

Pro Tips

For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the batter. Also, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid greasy hushpuppies.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover hushpuppies, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place cooled hushpuppies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.

If reheating fried foods makes you wary of losing that crunch, you can also re-fry them briefly. Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet, then add the hushpuppies for a quick fry, just until they're warm and the outside is crispy again. This method provides the best texture compared to microwaving, which can cause them to become soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Hushpuppies are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide array of dishes. Serve them with traditional Southern meals like fried catfish, shrimp, or barbecue. They also make a fantastic accompaniment to spicy dishes, as their fluffy, slightly sweet interior can help temper heat. For a little twist, try drizzling them with honey or serving them alongside a zesty remoulade for an exciting flavor contrast.

To elevate your hushpuppies, consider mixing other ingredients into the batter. Chopped jalapeños, bell peppers, or herbs can infuse additional flavor, while shredded cheese can offer a delightful gooeyness. Experimenting with different mix-ins can make this recipe feel fresh and new every time you prepare it!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make hushpuppies in advance?

Hushpuppies are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the batter ahead of time and fry them just before serving.

→ What can I serve with hushpuppies?

Hushpuppies pair well with fried fish, coleslaw, or even as a snack with some hot sauce.

→ What type of cornmeal is best?

For fried hushpuppies, use medium or coarse-ground cornmeal for the best texture.

→ Can I bake hushpuppies instead of frying them?

While frying gives the best texture, you can bake hushpuppies at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes for a healthier alternative.