Southern Deviled Eggs are a classic treat that’s creamy and packed with flavor! Made with hard-boiled eggs, mayo, mustard, and a sprinkle of paprika, they are always a hit at parties.
These little bites are so fun to make and eat. I like to add a dash of hot sauce for a kick—nothing wrong with a little spice, right? 😄 They’re perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Fresh, large eggs are best for deviled eggs. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-hard-boiled eggs from the store, although I believe nothing beats the freshness of boiling and peeling them yourself.
Mayonnaise: Classic mayo is key for creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It adds a tangy flavor and more protein!
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice kick! If you prefer a milder taste, you can use yellow mustard instead. For a twist, try spicy brown mustard for added depth.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a bit of tang. White vinegar or lemon juice can be good alternatives if you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand.
Smoked Paprika: It gives a nice smoky flavor and color. If you can’t find smoked paprika, regular paprika or even a dash of cayenne pepper can work, though the flavor will vary.
How Do You Peel Hard-Boiled Eggs Easily?
Peeing hard-boiled eggs can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be! Here’s a little trick: after boiling, transfer the eggs directly into a bowl of ice water. This helps loosen the shells.
- Let the eggs chill for at least 5 minutes.
- Gently tap the egg on a hard surface to crack the shell all around.
- Start peeling from the wider end, where there’s usually an air pocket – it makes it easier!
Taking the time to cool the eggs will make your life so much easier when it comes to peeling.
How to Make Southern Deviled Eggs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Eggs:
- 6 large eggs
For the Filling:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 teaspoons sweet pickle relish
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley or dill
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of preparation time, plus about 12 minutes for cooking the eggs and an additional 5 minutes for cooling. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Eggs:
Start by placing the eggs in a single layer in a saucepan. Cover the eggs with enough water so that it’s about an inch above them. Put the pan on the stove over high heat and bring the water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, cover the pan, turn off the heat, and let the eggs sit for 12 minutes. This is where the magic happens!
2. Cool the Eggs:
After the 12 minutes are up, carefully transfer the eggs to a bowl filled with ice water. Let them cool for at least 5 minutes. This cooling step helps make peeling the eggs a breeze!
3. Prepare the Filling:
Once the eggs have cooled, peel them and slice each one in half lengthwise. Gently remove the yolks and place them into a mixing bowl. Use a fork to mash the yolks until they’re crumbly. Then, add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and sweet pickle relish. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
4. Fill the Eggs:
Now it’s time to fill the egg whites! You can either spoon the yolk mixture back into each half or use a piping bag if you want to make it look fancy. Either way, make sure they’re filled up nicely!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle a little extra smoked paprika on top for some flavor and a pop of color. If you like, add fresh parsley or dill for an extra touch. You can serve them right away or refrigerate until you’re ready to enjoy these tasty Southern deviled eggs!
Can I Use Different Types of Mustard?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute Dijon mustard with yellow mustard. For a bolder taste, consider using spicy brown mustard or even a flavored mustard like honey mustard for a touch of sweetness!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Deviled Eggs?
Store any leftover deviled eggs in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re best eaten within 1-2 days. To prevent them from drying out, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the egg filling before sealing the container.
Can I Make the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the yolk mixture a day in advance! Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill the egg whites right before serving for the freshest taste.
How to Make Perfect Hard-Boiled Eggs?
If you want to ensure perfect hard-boiled eggs, try using older eggs as they tend to peel easier than fresh ones. Also, adding a bit of vinegar or salt to the boiling water can help with peeling. Remember to cool the eggs quickly in ice water after boiling!
