Squash Puppies

Get ready to fall in love with these crispy, golden little bites of pure comfort—Squash Puppies! Think tender, flavorful squash mixed into a perfectly seasoned batter, fried until crispy on the outside and fluffy inside. They’re like the ultimate snack or sidekick to any meal. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want to make them again and again.

Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a fun finger food for game day, or a tasty way to sneak some veggies into your family’s diet, these puppies deliver every time. Plus, they’re super simple to make and absolutely addictive!

Why You’ll Love Squash Puppies

Crunchy & Soft: That golden crust gives way to a tender, savory inside that’s just irresistible.

Vegetable-Packed: A sneaky way to get more squash on the table without anyone even noticing!

Perfect for Any Occasion: Game day, family dinners, potlucks—these puppies fit right in.

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients you likely have on hand.

Easy to Customize: Add spices, cheese, or herbs to suit your taste.

Ingredients in Squash Puppies

Here’s what makes these little delights so special:

Squash: Freshly grated for the best texture and flavor.

Cornmeal & Flour: Create that crispy, crunchy coating.

Eggs: Bind everything together into perfect little balls.

Onion & Garlic: Bring savory depth to every bite.

Seasonings: A pinch of salt, pepper, and maybe a little cayenne for a subtle kick.

Optional Extras: Cheese, fresh herbs, or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to make these crispy wonders? Here’s how:

Prepare the Squash

Grate your squash and squeeze out excess moisture for the best texture.

Mix the Batter

Combine squash with cornmeal, flour, eggs, onion, garlic, and seasonings until just mixed.

Heat the Oil

Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to the right temperature for frying.

Form and Fry

Drop spoonfuls of batter into hot oil, frying until golden brown and crispy on all sides.

Drain and Cool

Remove puppies with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to keep them crisp.

Serve Warm

Enjoy right away with your favorite dipping sauce or just as they are!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: [Number of servings]
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]

Preparation Time

Prep Time: [Time to prepare ingredients]
Cook Time: [Time to fry puppies]
Total Time: [Total time needed]

How to Serve Squash Puppies

• With Dips: Ranch, spicy mayo, or a tangy remoulade all pair beautifully.
• As a Side: Perfect alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad.
• Party Snack: Serve on a platter for easy finger food.
• Lunchbox Treat: Great cold or warm for on-the-go snacking.

Additional Tips

• Dry the Squash Well: Removing moisture helps the puppies crisp up nicely.
• Don’t Overmix: Keeps the texture light and fluffy.
• Oil Temperature: Maintain a steady 350°F for perfect frying.
• Try Different Squash Varieties: Zucchini or yellow squash both work great.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the batter and refrigerate before frying for convenience.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I bake instead of fry?
A1: You can! Bake at 400°F on a greased sheet until golden, but frying gives the best crisp.

Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A2: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

Q3: Can I add cheese?
A3: Absolutely! Cheddar or Parmesan add a delicious twist.

Q4: Are squash puppies gluten-free?
A4: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Q5: What’s the best oil for frying?
A5: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable or canola oil.

Q6: Can I use frozen squash?
A6: Fresh is best, but if using frozen, thaw and squeeze out all moisture before mixing.

Q7: Can I make these vegan?
A7: Use a flax egg or another egg substitute to bind the batter.

Q8: How do I keep them crispy?
A8: Drain well and serve immediately or reheat in the oven.

Q9: Can I add spices?
A9: Yes! Try smoked paprika, cayenne, or garlic powder for extra flavor.

Q10: Are these kid-friendly?
A10: Totally! Mild flavors and fun size make them a hit with kids.

Conclusion

There you have it—Squash Puppies that bring a crispy, savory bite of happiness to your table. Easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion, these puppies will quickly become your go-to snack or side dish. So grab some squash and get frying—you’re in for a treat!

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