Southern Hush Puppies

These Southern hush puppies are golden, crispy, and perfectly fluffy on the inside. Made with cornmeal, buttermilk, and onion, they fry up light and tender and make the perfect side for fish fries, barbecue, seafood, or any Southern-style meal.

Contributor: Aunt Ally
Southern Hush Puppies

Prep

10 min

Cook

6 min

Temp

350°F–375°F Oil

Yield

6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 3/4 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 small onion, grated (about 1/4 to 1/2 cup)
  • Peanut or vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. Step 1
    1

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cayenne pepper.

  2. Step 2
    2

    In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and buttermilk. Stir into the dry ingredients along with the grated onion and its juices until combined.

  3. Step 3
    3

    Pour about 2 inches of oil into a large cast iron skillet or Dutch oven. Heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350°F to 375°F.

  4. Step 4
    4

    Using two spoons or a small scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches for 2 to 3 minutes, turning partway through, until golden brown and crisp.

  5. Step 5
    5

    Transfer the hush puppies to a wire rack or paper towel-lined pan to drain. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

  • Use a small cookie scoop for evenly sized hush puppies.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan or the oil temperature will drop too quickly.
  • Add a little extra cayenne pepper if you prefer more heat.
  • Serve with ranch, honey butter, tartar sauce, or comeback sauce for dipping.
  • Leftovers reheat best in an air fryer or oven to crisp the outside back up.