Classic Deviled Eggs: Easy Traditional Recipe for Perfect Party Appetizers

There’s something irresistible about biting into a perfectly prepared deviled egg. This classic Southern appetizer has been a staple on countless tables at parties, picnics, and family gatherings for generations. What makes these traditional deviled eggs so special is their simplicity – just a few basic ingredients create an appetizer that disappears within minutes of being served. I’ve never put out a platter of these creamy, tangy treats without the plate returning empty! Best of all, they’re budget-friendly and can be prepared ahead of time, making them the perfect stress-free party food.

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Why This Recipe Works

The perfect balance of creamy mayonnaise, tangy mustard, and savory seasonings creates a filling that’s rich and satisfying without being overpowering. By using simple, traditional ingredients, these deviled eggs let the classic flavors shine through. The make-ahead convenience factor makes them ideal for entertaining, and they taste better when prepared in advance as the flavors have time to meld together beautifully.

Classic Deviled Eggs Ingredients

• Hard-Boiled Eggs – Provide the perfect vessel for the creamy filling
• Mayonnaise – Creates the smooth, creamy base for the filling
• Dijon Mustard – Adds tanginess and depth of flavor
• Red Onion – Contributes a mild, sweet bite and subtle crunch
• Smoked Paprika – Adds depth, color and a subtle smoky flavor
• Dill Pickle Relish – Delivers briny flavor and textural contrast
• Salt – Enhances all the other flavors
• Black Pepper – Provides subtle warmth and seasoning

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Place eggs in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch.
2. Bring water to a rolling boil over high heat.
3. Once boiling, remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 10 minutes.
4. Transfer eggs to an ice bath and cool for 5 minutes.
5. Peel eggs carefully under cold running water.
6. Slice eggs in half lengthwise.
7. Gently remove yolks and place them in a medium-sized bowl.
8. Mince yolks with a fork until they have a fine, uniform texture.
9. Add mayonnaise, dijon mustard, finely diced red onion, smoked paprika, and dill pickle relish to the yolks.
10. Stir until well blended.
11. Spoon mixture into egg white shells.
12. Sprinkle with paprika for garnish.
13. Top with capers if desired.

How to Make Perfect Hard-Boiled Eggs

The foundation of great deviled eggs starts with perfectly cooked hard-boiled eggs. For ideal results:

1. Use eggs that are at least 5-7 days old, as very fresh eggs are harder to peel
2. Start eggs in cold water to prevent cracking
3. After boiling, shock them in ice water to stop the cooking process
4. Peel under running water for easiest shell removal
5. For foolproof results, consider using an Instant Pot (6 minutes on high pressure with natural release)

Classic Southern Deviled Eggs

Perfect creamy, tangy deviled eggs made with traditional ingredients for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that disappears in minutes!

5 from 2 votes

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Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Deviled Eggs, Egg Recipes, Keto, Low Carb

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes minutes

Servings: 12

Calories: 144kcal

Author: Stephanie Manley

Ingredients

• 12 hard boiled eggs
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons finely diced red onion
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon dill pickle relish

Instructions

• Hard boil eggs if you have not already done so. Split eggs in half, and separate out the egg yolks. Place egg yolks into a medium sized bowl. Mince yolk with a fork until the yolks have a fine uniform texture.
• Mix in mayonnaise, mustard, red onion, smoked paprika, and dill pickle relish. Stir until well blended.
• Spoon mixture into egg white shells. Sprinkle with paprika.
• Top with capers if desired.

Video

Notes

For the smoothest filling, make sure your eggs are thoroughly cooled before peeling, and use room temperature mayonnaise.

If you prefer a more elegant presentation, use a piping bag with a star tip to fill the egg whites.

For perfect hard-boiled eggs every time, try using an Instant Pot – they cook evenly and the shells practically slide off when peeled under running water.

Nutrition

Calories: 144kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 190mg | Sodium: 163mg | Potassium: 66mg | Fiber: 0g | Sugar: 0g | Vitamin A: 285IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 26mg | Iron: 0.7mg

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

One of the best features of deviled eggs is their make-ahead convenience:

• Prepare Ahead: You can make deviled eggs up to 2 days in advance
• Storage: Keep prepared deviled eggs covered in the refrigerator
• Filling Separately: For best results beyond 24 hours, store the filling and egg whites separately, then assemble just before serving
• Temperature: Always keep deviled eggs refrigerated until about 30 minutes before serving

Variations and Flavor Enhancements

While these classic deviled eggs are perfect as-is, here are some delicious variations:

• Truffle Deviled Eggs: Add a few drops of truffle oil to the filling for an elegant twist
• Bacon Lover’s: Mix in crumbled bacon bits and top with additional bacon
• Spicy Version: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the filling
• Herb Garden: Mix in fresh chopped herbs like dill, chives, or parsley
• Avocado: Replace half the mayonnaise with mashed avocado for a modern update

Serving Suggestions

• Arrange deviled eggs on a specialized deviled egg platter for best presentation
• Garnish with fresh herbs, bacon bits, or a light dusting of paprika
• Serve alongside other finger foods for a complete appetizer spread
• For a beautiful presentation, use a variety of garnishes to create a colorful assortment