Easy Homemade Hush Puppies

Introduction

Few things say Southern comfort quite like a basket of freshly fried hush puppies. These little golden nuggets are the perfect blend of crispy on the outside and tender, fluffy goodness inside. Whether you’re serving them alongside fried fish, barbecue, or enjoying them as a snack, hush puppies always bring smiles to the table. Today, I’ll share my easy and delicious recipe for homemade hush puppies using Jiffy cornbread mix. This shortcut makes them quick, foolproof, and absolutely irresistible.

My recipe story

Growing up, hush puppies were a staple at family fish fries. My grandmother always had a bowl of batter ready, and we kids would eagerly wait by the fryer to snatch up the first golden bites. Over the years, I’ve experimented with different recipes, but I found that using Jiffy mix delivers consistent results without compromising flavor. The sweetness of Jiffy pairs beautifully with the savory onion, and the result is a hush puppy that’s light, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. Now, every time I make these hush puppies, it feels like a taste of home and cherished memories shared around the table.

Ingredient breakdown

The beauty of this hush puppy recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a classic Southern side that tastes like it came straight from a family-owned fish shack.

Jiffy Cornbread Mix: This pre-made mix is the secret to quick and fluffy hush puppies. It adds just the right amount of sweetness and structure to the batter, making it practically foolproof.

Grated Onion: Fresh onion not only enhances the flavor but also adds a slight moisture that keeps the hush puppies tender. A fine grate works best to evenly distribute throughout the batter.

Milk & Egg: These bind the ingredients together while creating a rich, fluffy texture inside. The milk adds moisture, while the egg helps with structure and golden color.

Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika or garlic powder are common additions to give hush puppies a savory kick. You can also add cayenne for a bit of heat if you like spice.

Equipment you’ll need

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon
• Box grater (for onion)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
• Slotted spoon or spider strainer
• Paper towels (for draining)

Step-by-step directions

1. Prepare the batter: In a mixing bowl, combine one box of Jiffy cornbread mix, the grated onion, one beaten egg, and about 1/3 cup of milk. Stir gently until the batter comes together. The mixture should be thick enough to scoop but not runny. If it feels too dry, add a splash of milk.
2. Heat the oil: In a deep fryer or a heavy pot, pour enough oil to reach at least 2–3 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Maintaining the correct temperature is crucial for crispy, golden hush puppies that aren’t greasy.
3. Scoop and fry: Using a spoon or a small cookie scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the pot, as this will lower the oil temperature and affect the cooking.
4. Cook until golden: Fry the hush puppies for about 2–3 minutes per side, turning occasionally for even browning. They should be deeply golden on the outside and cooked through in the center.
5. Drain and serve: Remove hush puppies with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces or alongside your main dish.

Variations & substitutions

One of the best things about hush puppies is their versatility. Here are a few fun ways to make them your own:

• Cheesy hush puppies: Stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese for a richer, gooey bite.
• Spicy twist: Add finely diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to give them a kick.
• Seafood hush puppies: Mix in a small amount of chopped shrimp or crab for a coastal-inspired version.
• Herb boost: Fresh parsley, chives, or dill can add freshness and color to your hush puppies.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

Hush puppies are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers if needed. Keep cooled hush puppies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 4 days.

To freeze, place cooled hush puppies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They will keep for up to 2 months. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore their crispy exterior. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

If you want to make them ahead, you can prepare the batter a few hours before frying, but be sure to keep it refrigerated until ready to cook.

Serving ideas & pairings

Hush puppies are traditionally paired with fried fish, but their versatility makes them a wonderful addition to many meals:

• Serve with fried catfish or shrimp for a classic Southern feast.
• Pair with barbecue ribs or pulled pork sandwiches for a comforting combo.
• Offer them as a side at seafood boils or clam bakes.
• Serve with dipping sauces like honey butter, ranch, or remoulade.
• Enjoy them as a party appetizer with a variety of sauces for dipping.

FAQ

Can I bake hush puppies instead of frying them?
Traditional hush puppies are fried for their crispy texture, but you can bake them in a mini muffin tin at 375°F for 12–15 minutes for a healthier alternative.

What oil is best for frying hush puppies?
Neutral oils with high smoke points, such as vegetable oil, peanut oil, or canola oil, work best for frying hush puppies.

Why are my hush puppies greasy?
If your oil temperature is too low, the hush puppies will absorb more oil and turn greasy. Always check the temperature before frying.

Can I make hush puppies gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free cornbread mix in place of Jiffy for a delicious gluten-free version.

How do I know when hush puppies are done?
They should be golden brown on the outside and no longer doughy in the center. Frying for 2–3 minutes per side usually does the trick.

Final thoughts

Homemade hush puppies are a true Southern classic that deserves a spot on your table. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple method, you can whip up a batch of these golden bites in no time. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout, a seafood dinner, or just craving a little comfort food, these hush puppies will never disappoint. Give them a try, and soon they’ll become one of your favorite go-to recipes for sharing with family and friends.

Homemade Hush Puppies

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• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: About 20 hush puppies
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Crispy golden hush puppies with a soft, fluffy center. A quick and easy Southern favorite perfect for seafood dinners, BBQs, or snacking.

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Ingredients

• 1 box Jiffy cornbread mix
• ½ cup onion, grated

• 1 large egg, beaten

• ⅓ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• Oil, for frying

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine Jiffy mix, grated onion, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir just until blended; do not overmix.

2. Heat 2–3 inches of oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C).

3. Drop spoonfuls of batter into hot oil, cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding.
4. Fry 2–3 minutes per side until hush puppies are golden brown and cooked through.

5. Remove with a slotted spoon, drain on paper towels, and serve warm.
   

Notes

For extra flavor, stir in chopped jalapeños, shredded cheese, or fresh herbs. Best served fresh, but leftovers can be reheated in the oven or air fryer.

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