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Light and fluffy on the inside, perfectly crispy on the outside, with just a touch of spice, these Jalapeno Hush Puppies are the perfect accompaniment for a true Southern meal.

This recipe was originally published in February 2018. It has been updated for photos and content.

Whenever I make fried dishes like these Fried Alligator Bites, Cajun Chicken Wings or these Southwest Egg Rolls, I like to reuse the oil to make these Jalapeno Hushpuppies. Or sometimes I just like to make the hush puppies.

Because they go great with this Chicken Etouffee, New Orleans Gumbo, or this New Orleans BBQ Shrimp.

The tang of the buttermilk, spice of the jalapenos and sharp flavor of cheddar cheese make these hush puppies some of the best ever.

Ingredients

The buttermilk in this recipe adds a touch of tangy flavor while helping to keep the hush puppies moist and tender. Learn how to make buttermilk.

I prefer to use a sharp cheddar cheese as it has a stronger flavor than the mild, but you can use whichever you prefer.

The remaining ingredients are listed in the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

Step By Step Instructions

Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix to combine, being careful not to over mix. It's ok if it's a little lumpy.

Heat about 2-3 cups of oil to 350F in a dutch oven. To test the temperature of the oil, I like to use an Instant Read thermometer like this Thermapen. Any one will work, I just really like this one as it's incredibly quick and accurate.

Using a medium sized cookie scoop, drop scoops of the batter in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.

Fry for about 2-3 minutes then flip over and fry another 2-3 minutes. They should be golden brown on all sides.

Using a skimmer strainer (or large slotted spoon), remove the hushpuppies from the oil and drain them on paper towels.

Serve them with Cajun Remoulade, ranch dressing or ketchup. These are also perfect serviced alongside this sous vide fried chicken - while you have the oil out you might as well fry some more!

Expert Tips

Don't overcrowd the pan or the temperature of the oil may drop too much. This can cause hush puppies to become soggy.
If making more than 2-3 batches, keep the cooked ones warm in a 200F oven.
Add an additional jalapeno (or other pepper) for more heat.
Add in some crumbled bacon for a meaty flavor.

If jalapenos are your thing, you may also like these air fryer jalapeno poppers!

Did you make this recipe? Rate the recipe and leave a comment to let me know how they turned out!

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