Air Fryer Hush Puppies Recipe: 5 Crispy Joys to Savor

Name: Air Fryer Hush Puppies Recipe: 5 Crispy Joys to Savor
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 cup cornmeal; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1/2 cup milk; 1 large egg; 1 cup corn kernels

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 27, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Oh, let me tell you about air fryer hush puppies! These little golden bites are like a crispy hug from the South, and once you try this air fryer hush puppies recipe, you’ll be hooked! I remember the first time I had hush puppies at a family gathering – they were served hot and fresh, with that beautiful crunch on the outside and a soft, corny center. The aroma wafting through the air had everyone gathering around the table, eagerly waiting for their share. With my air fryer, I can whip up a batch in no time without the mess of deep frying. Trust me, you’ll love how easy they are to make and how delicious they taste! Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that’s bound to bring joy to your gatherings or even just a cozy night in.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Hush Puppies Recipe

This air fryer hush puppies recipe is a game changer! You’ll find that it’s not just about taste; it’s about convenience and satisfaction. Here’s why you’ll fall head over heels for these delicious bites:

Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these tasty morsels on your table in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those last-minute cravings!
Crispy Texture: The air fryer gives you that perfect crunch without all the oil, meaning you can enjoy guilt-free indulgence. It’s crispy on the outside and soft inside—just the way hush puppies should be!
Delicious Flavor: The combination of cornmeal, fresh corn, and green onions creates a burst of flavor in every bite. They’re savory and satisfying, making them a great appetizer or side dish.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite spices or even cheese to mix things up! You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste.

Trust me, once you make these, you’ll be sharing them with everyone!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Hush Puppies Recipe

Gather these simple ingredients to create your air fryer hush puppies. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering that delightful flavor and texture!

1 cup cornmeal: This is the star of the show! It provides that signature corny flavor and a base for your hush puppies.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour: A little flour helps bind everything together and gives the hush puppies a lovely structure.
1 tablespoon baking powder: This is your leavening agent, ensuring your hush puppies rise and stay light and fluffy.
1/2 teaspoon salt: A must for enhancing all the flavors—don’t skip it!
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Just a hint of spice to elevate the taste!
1/4 cup chopped green onions: These add a fresh, savory kick that complements the corn beautifully.
1/2 cup milk: This brings moisture to the mix, making everything come together nicely.
1 large egg: The egg helps bind the ingredients, giving your hush puppies that perfect texture.
1 cup corn kernels: Fresh or frozen, these little bursts of sweetness will make your hush puppies irresistible!

With these ingredients at hand, you’re all set to create a batch of tasty hush puppies that will wow your family and friends!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Hush Puppies

Now let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to whip up a batch of air fryer hush puppies that are sure to impress. Don’t worry; I’ll walk you through each part to make it as easy as pie!

Step 1 – Mix Dry Ingredients

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk or a fork to mix everything together until it’s well combined. This will help ensure that the baking powder is evenly distributed, which is key for that perfect rise!

Step 2 – Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, it’s time to whisk together the milk, egg, and chopped green onions. Once mixed, pour this wet mixture into your bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—don’t over-mix! You want a few lumps to keep those hush puppies light and fluffy. Now, fold in the corn kernels for that extra sweetness.

Step 3 – Preheat Air Fryer

Preheating your air fryer is crucial for achieving that ideal crunchy exterior. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it heat up for about 5 minutes while you finish your batter. This little step makes a big difference!

Step 4 – Form and Cook Hush Puppies

Once your batter is mixed and the air fryer is preheated, it’s time to form your hush puppies! Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the batter and drop them into the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd the basket; you want some space for air to circulate. Cook the hush puppies for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. They should come out golden brown and oh-so-crispy!

Tips for Success with Air Fryer Hush Puppies Recipe

Want to ensure your air fryer hush puppies turn out perfectly every time? I’ve got some handy tips to help you avoid common pitfalls and elevate your cooking game!

Don’t Overmix: When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough hush puppies. A few lumps are perfectly fine!
Adjust Cooking Time: Every air fryer is a little different. Keep an eye on your hush puppies as they cook, especially the first time you make them. You want them golden brown, not burnt!
Use Parchment Paper: If you’re worried about sticking, line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or use a silicone mat designed for air fryers. This helps with cleanup and ensures they come out easily.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add spices like cayenne pepper or garlic powder for an extra kick! You can even toss in some cheese for a delicious twist.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be a hush puppy pro in no time!

Nutritional Information for Air Fryer Hush Puppies Recipe

Curious about the nutritional value of these delicious air fryer hush puppies? Here’s a quick breakdown per serving, which consists of four hush puppies. Keep in mind that these values are estimates, so adjust accordingly based on your specific ingredients:

Calories: 150
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 200mg
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 4g

These hush puppies are a tasty treat that won’t break the calorie bank, making them a great appetizer or snack option!

Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Hush Puppies

Now that you’ve got these crispy little gems ready, it’s time to think about how to serve them! Hush puppies shine when paired with a variety of dipping sauces. I love serving them with a zesty remoulade or a classic honey mustard for a sweet and tangy kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, a spicy aioli adds a nice heat!

For a complete meal, enjoy your hush puppies alongside fried catfish or a refreshing coleslaw. They also make a fantastic appetizer at gatherings, so feel free to set them out with some drinks for a delightful snack that everyone will love!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare because they’re so delicious!), you’ll want to store your air fryer hush puppies properly to keep them fresh. Let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can stay in the fridge for up to three days.

When it’s time to enjoy them again, the air fryer is your best friend! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C), then pop the hush puppies in for about 5-7 minutes. This will bring back that delightful crispy texture without drying them out. Trust me, they’ll taste almost as good as when they were first made!

FAQ About Air Fryer Hush Puppies Recipe

Can I use frozen corn in the recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen corn works great in this air fryer hush puppies recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the batter. It’ll give you that sweet burst of flavor you love, just like fresh corn would!

What dipping sauces pair well with hush puppies?

There are so many delicious options! Here are a few of my favorites:

Remoulade: A zesty, tangy sauce that complements the flavors beautifully.
Honey Mustard: This sweet and tangy dip is always a crowd-pleaser.
Spicy Aioli: For those who like a kick, this creamy sauce adds a delightful heat.

Can I make hush puppies ahead of time?

You can definitely prepare the batter ahead of time! Just mix everything together and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to cook, give it a good stir and then pop them in the air fryer. This makes it super convenient for parties or busy weeknights!

How do I know when the hush puppies are done?

Great question! You’ll want to look for a beautiful golden-brown color. Give them a gentle press with your fingers; they should feel firm and spring back slightly. You can also do the toothpick test—insert one into the center, and if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready to enjoy!