Classic Deviled Eggs
A quintessential American potluck favorite, these deviled eggs feature perfectly hard-boiled eggs halved and filled with a rich, creamy yolk mixture, finished with a sprinkle of paprika and fresh chives.
🧂 Ingredients
- 12 Large Eggs(Fresh eggs are harder to peel; slightly older eggs (a week or so) are ideal.)
- 1/3 cup Mayonnaise(Full-fat mayonnaise will yield the creamiest filling.)
- 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard(Adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor.)
- 1/4 tsp Salt(Or to taste.)
- 1/8 tsp Black Pepper(Freshly ground, or to taste.)
- for garnish Paprika(Smoked paprika or sweet paprika both work well.)
- 1 tbsp Fresh Chives(Finely chopped, for garnish.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Place the eggs in a single layer in a medium saucepan. Cover with cold water by about 1 inch. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
⏱️ 1 minute - 2
Once boiling, immediately remove the saucepan from the heat. Cover the pan tightly with a lid and let stand for 10-12 minutes. The residual heat will cook the eggs.
⏱️ 10-12 minutes - 3
While the eggs are standing, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice and cold water. Once the eggs have stood, carefully transfer them to the ice bath using a slotted spoon. Let them cool completely for at least 10 minutes. This stops the cooking and makes them easier to peel.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Gently tap each egg on a hard surface to crack the shell all over. Starting from the wider end, carefully peel the eggs under cool running water or submerged in the ice bath. Rinse off any small shell fragments.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 5
Slice each peeled egg in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the yolks into a medium bowl. Arrange the egg white halves on a serving platter.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 6
Mash the egg yolks with a fork until they are fine and crumbly. Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir or whisk until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 7
Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the hollows of the egg white halves. For a professional look, use a piping bag fitted with a star tip.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 8
Garnish each deviled egg with a sprinkle of paprika and a pinch of fresh chives. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For easier peeling, use eggs that are about a week old rather than very fresh ones.
- ✓An ice bath is crucial for stopping the cooking process and preventing the dreaded green ring around the yolk.
- ✓For a smoother filling, you can press the mashed yolks through a fine-mesh sieve before mixing with the other ingredients.
- ✓Using a piping bag with a decorative tip creates a more elegant presentation, but a small spoon works perfectly well.
- ✓Deviled eggs are best served chilled. Cover the platter with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add 2-3 slices of cooked, crumbled bacon to the yolk mixture.
- Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of finely chopped dill pickles or sweet pickle relish for a tangy crunch.
- Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Add 1 teaspoon of finely minced onion or shallot for extra flavor.