Shrimp Stuffed Hush Puppies

If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly marries crispy, savory flavors with tender, juicy shrimp, then Shrimp Stuffed Hush Puppies are calling your name. These golden bites are packed with delicious shrimp inside a flavorful cornmeal batter, delivering a delightful combination of texture and taste with every mouthful. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side, Shrimp Stuffed Hush Puppies bring that irresistible Southern charm to your table and are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crunchy on the outside: Each hush puppy fries to a perfectly crispy golden brown exterior that’s utterly addictive.
• Juicy shrimp center: A tender, flavorful shrimp filling adds a delightful seafood surprise inside every bite.
• Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it a go-to recipe for cooks of all levels.
• Versatile serving options: Great as a party appetizer, a side dish, or even a main course with your favorite dipping sauce.
• Authentic Southern flavor: Combines traditional hush puppy ingredients with a seafood twist that honors Southern cuisine.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind Shrimp Stuffed Hush Puppies lies in their simple yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each element adds to the taste, texture, and eye-catching golden color that make these hush puppies so special.

• Cornmeal: The base of the batter, providing that iconic grit and crispy texture.
• All-purpose flour: Helps bind the batter and gives the hush puppies a tender crumb.
• Baking powder: Ensures your hush puppies rise nicely and become light inside.
• Buttermilk: Adds tanginess and moisture for a soft, flavorful batter.
• Seasoned shrimp: The star ingredient, chopped shrimp seasoned with spices for a burst of flavor.
• Onion and scallions: Provide a fresh, subtle sharpness that complements the shrimp perfectly.
• Garlic powder and cayenne pepper: Add a warm, spicy kick without overpowering the flavors.
• Egg: Binds all ingredients together for a smooth, scoopable batter.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the best taste.
• Vegetable oil: For deep frying, ensuring each hush puppy crisps up just right.

Variations for Shrimp Stuffed Hush Puppies

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to make it your own depending on what you have in the kitchen or your specific dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to explore.

• Spicy Cajun style: Add more cayenne, smoked paprika, and a bit of hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Cheesy stuffed hush puppies: Incorporate shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese inside the batter for a melty surprise.
• Gluten-free version: Swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends to suit gluten sensitivities.
• Herb-infused batter: Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill for a fresh, aromatic flair.
• Vegetarian option: Replace shrimp with finely chopped mushrooms or corn for a meat-free treat.

How to Make Shrimp Stuffed Hush Puppies

Step 1: Prepare the shrimp filling

Start by cleaning and finely chopping fresh shrimp, then season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the batter.

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and any additional spices you prefer. Whisk them thoroughly to ensure even distribution.

Step 3: Combine wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the egg and whisk in buttermilk, chopped onions, and scallions. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing.

Step 4: Form the stuffed hush puppies

Take a tablespoon of batter and flatten it slightly in your hand, place a small spoonful of the seasoned shrimp filling in the center, then cover with another dollop of batter, sealing it around the shrimp to form a ball.

Step 5: Fry to golden perfection

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the hush puppies into the hot oil in batches, frying until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Step 6: Drain and serve

Remove the hush puppies with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Pro Tips for Making Shrimp Stuffed Hush Puppies

• Oil temperature matters: Maintain frying oil between 350°F and 360°F to ensure a crisp exterior without overcooking the shrimp.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Stir enough to combine but keep the batter slightly lumpy for better texture.
• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp give a sweeter, more succulent bite than frozen varieties.
• Drain properly: Use paper towels to soak up excess oil, keeping the hush puppies light and not greasy.
• Test a small batch first: Fry one hush puppy initially to adjust cooking time and seasoning if needed.

How to Serve Shrimp Stuffed Hush Puppies

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro on top for a bright, herbal lift and a pop of color that makes the hush puppies look as good as they taste.

Side Dishes

Pair with creamy coleslaw, tangy tartar sauce, or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the fried batter. Southern-style baked beans or cornbread also complement nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Shrimp Stuffed Hush Puppies on skewers as fun party bites or arrange them on a rustic wooden board with dipping bowls of spicy remoulade or garlic aioli to impress guests visually and gastronomically.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This helps maintain freshness without the hush puppies becoming soggy.

Freezing

Freeze uncooked hush puppies on a parchment-lined tray individually, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 2 months. Freeze cooked hush puppies after cooling in a single layer, wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until crisp and heated through. Avoid microwaving which can soften their gorgeous crunch.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Stuffed Hush Puppies?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain the shrimp thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the batter, which can make the hush puppies soggy.

What dipping sauces go well with Shrimp Stuffed Hush Puppies?

Classic options include tartar sauce, spicy remoulade, garlic aioli, or a cool buttermilk ranch. You can also try cocktail sauce for a more traditional seafood pairing.

How do I know when the hush puppies are done frying?

Look for a deep golden brown color and a firm texture when gently pressed. The cooking time is usually 3-4 minutes per batch at the right oil temperature.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

You can bake them at 400°F on a greased baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes but expect less crispiness compared to frying.

Are Shrimp Stuffed Hush Puppies gluten-free?

Traditional recipes use all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with gluten-free blends designed for frying.

Final Thoughts

Shrimp Stuffed Hush Puppies combine the best of Southern cooking with a seafood twist that’s simply irresistible. Their crunchy exterior, flavorful shrimp center, and comforting texture make them a perfect addition to any meal or party spread. Give these golden bites a try—I promise they’ll become a favorite you’ll want to make time and time again!

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