Holiday Deviled Eggs: 3 Easy & Festive Recipes

Holiday Deviled Eggs: A Classic Appetizer with a Festive Twist

Deviled eggs are a timeless appetizer, gracing potluck tables and holiday spreads for generations. Their simple yet satisfying combination of creamy yolk filling nestled in a smooth egg white has made them a party favorite. But where did this classic dish come from?

The concept of stuffing eggs dates back to ancient Rome, where boiled eggs were served with spicy sauces. The term “deviled,” however, appeared much later, around the 18th century, to describe any food that was spicy or zesty. Today, deviled eggs are a holiday staple because they’re easy to make in large batches, can be prepared ahead of time, and appeal to a wide range of tastes. They are the perfect bite-sized snack to enjoy while mingling with family and friends.

This guide will walk you through creating the perfect classic deviled egg and then introduce three festive variations that will elevate your holiday appetizer game. Whether you prefer traditional flavors or something with a modern kick, there’s a deviled egg recipe here for you.

The Perfect Classic Deviled Egg Recipe

Mastering the classic deviled egg is the first step to creating countless variations. The key is achieving perfectly cooked eggs and a smooth, flavorful filling. This recipe is simple, reliable, and delicious every time.

Ingredients:

• 6 large eggs
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar or lemon juice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Paprika, for garnish
• Fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Boil the Eggs: Place the eggs in a single layer in a saucepan and cover with cold water by at least one inch. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, turn off the heat, cover the pan, and let the eggs sit for 10-12 minutes.
2. Cool the Eggs: After 12 minutes, transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let them cool for at least 5 minutes. This makes them easier to peel and helps prevent that dreaded green ring around the yolk.
3. Peel and Halve: Gently tap each egg on a hard surface and roll it to crack the shell all over. Peel under cold running water. Once peeled, slice each egg in half lengthwise.
4. Make the Filling: Carefully scoop out the yolks into a small bowl. Place the egg white halves on a serving platter. Mash the yolks with a fork until they are a fine crumble.
5. Mix the Ingredients: Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and vinegar to the mashed yolks. Mix until the filling is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
6. Fill the Eggs: You can use a spoon to fill the egg white halves, but for a more elegant look, transfer the yolk mixture to a piping bag fitted with a star tip and pipe the filling into the whites.
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with paprika and fresh herbs, if using. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.

Tips for Perfect Hard-Boiled Eggs

• Use older eggs: Eggs that are a week or two old are often easier to peel than fresh ones.
• Start with cold water: Placing eggs in boiling water can cause them to crack. Starting them in cold water allows for more even cooking.
• Don’t overcook: Overcooking is what causes the greenish-gray layer around the yolk. Stick to the 10-12 minute timeframe for perfectly cooked yolks.

3 Festive Variations to Try

Once you have the classic recipe down, it’s time to get creative! These three variations add unique flavors and textures that are perfect for any holiday gathering.

1. Bacon and Cheddar Deviled Eggs

This combination is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The salty crunch of bacon and the sharp flavor of cheddar cheese make these deviled eggs hearty and irresistible. They’re perfect for a casual Christmas get-together or a New Year’s Day football party.

Ingredients:

• 6 classic deviled egg halves (prepared as above)
• 3 slices of bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled
• 1/4 cup finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped chives

Instructions:

1. Prepare the classic deviled egg filling as directed.
2. Gently fold in the crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, and chopped chives.
3. Pipe or spoon the mixture into the egg white halves.
4. Garnish with a little extra bacon and chives before serving.

2. Spicy Sriracha Deviled Eggs

For those who like a bit of heat, these Sriracha deviled eggs deliver a spicy kick that is balanced by the creamy yolk filling. The vibrant red hue of the Sriracha drizzle also adds a festive touch to your appetizer platter.

Ingredients:

• 6 classic deviled egg halves
• 1-2 teaspoons Sriracha (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• Thinly sliced jalapeño or cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the classic deviled egg filling, adding the Sriracha and lime juice along with the mayonnaise and mustard.
2. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated. Taste and add more Sriracha if you prefer more heat.
3. Fill the egg white halves with the spicy mixture.
4. Garnish with a thin slice of jalapeño or a sprig of fresh cilantro.

3. Smoked Salmon and Dill Deviled Eggs

If you’re hosting a more elegant affair, these smoked salmon and dill deviled eggs are the perfect choice. The sophisticated flavors of smoked salmon, fresh dill, and a hint of lemon create an appetizer that feels luxurious and special.

Ingredients:

• 6 classic deviled egg halves
• 2 ounces smoked salmon, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Capers or extra dill sprigs, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the classic deviled egg filling.
2. Gently stir in the finely chopped smoked salmon, fresh dill, and lemon juice.
3. Fill the egg white halves with the salmon and dill mixture.
4. Garnish with a few capers or a small sprig of fresh dill for a beautiful presentation.

Essential Tools for Deviled Egg Success

Having the right tools can make the process of making deviled eggs much smoother and more enjoyable. Here are a few Amazon product recommendations to help you create perfect deviled eggs every time.

• Egg Cooker: An electric egg cooker, like the Dash Rapid Egg Cooker, takes the guesswork out of boiling eggs. It consistently produces perfectly cooked eggs, whether you want them soft, medium, or hard-boiled.
• Piping Bags and Tips: For that professional, polished look, use a piping bag. A set like the Wilton Decorating Bag and Tip Set offers various tips so you can create beautiful designs with your filling.
• Deviled Egg Serving Tray: Prevent your beautifully crafted eggs from sliding around with a dedicated serving tray. A platter like the Libbey Crisa Moderno Deviled Egg Platter has indentations to keep each egg securely in place.

Serving and Make-Ahead Tips

Proper presentation and planning can make your holiday hosting stress-free.

• Garnishing Ideas: Beyond paprika, try garnishing with fresh herbs, crumbled bacon, sliced olives, capers, or even a sprinkle of smoked sea salt. Match the garnish to the filling for a cohesive look and taste.
• Holiday Pairings: Deviled eggs are a great starter for a traditional holiday meal of turkey or ham. Their light yet satisfying nature won’t spoil appetites for the main course.
• Make-Ahead Tips: You can boil and peel the eggs up to two days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The filling can also be made a day ahead and stored separately in an airtight container or a sealed piping bag. When you’re ready to serve, simply pipe the filling into the egg whites and garnish.

Read More: Easy Reindeer Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Share Your Egg-cellent Creations

Deviled eggs are a wonderfully versatile dish that you can tailor to any occasion. From the timeless classic to zesty Sriracha or savory bacon and cheddar, these recipes provide a fantastic starting point for your holiday menu. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your own flavor combinations to create a signature deviled egg that your guests will talk about for years to come.

We encourage you to try these recipes and share your delicious creations with us on social media! Tag us and use the hashtag #HolidayDeviledEggs so we can see what you’ve whipped up in your kitchen.