Creamy, tangy, and visually refined, these Classic Deviled Eggs with Chives and Crumb Topping are a quintessential appetizer for any occasion. Featuring a smooth, flavorful yolk filling and an elegant garnish of grated yolk and fresh chives, they strike a perfect balance of tradition and sophistication. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, holiday dinner, or cocktail party, these deviled eggs are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These deviled eggs stand out not only for their creamy texture and zesty flavor but also for their refined presentation. The combination of a classic mustard-mayo filling with a topping of grated egg yolk and chives elevates them beyond ordinary. They are easy to prepare ahead of time, naturally gluten-free, and endlessly customizable. Whether served as a party hors d’oeuvre or a holiday staple, they always disappear fast.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

6 large eggs
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 teaspoon yellow mustard
1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon finely chopped chives
1 hard-boiled egg yolk, grated (for topping)

Directions

Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, cover the pot, remove it from heat, and let the eggs sit for 10–12 minutes.
Transfer the eggs to an ice bath and allow them to cool completely.
Peel the eggs, then slice them in half lengthwise. Carefully remove the yolks and place them in a mixing bowl.
Mash the yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Spoon or pipe the filling back into the egg white halves.
Top each filled egg with a sprinkle of finely chopped chives and a dusting of grated hard-boiled yolk.
Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 deviled egg halves (6 whole eggs), serving approximately 4–6 people. Preparation and cooking take around 25–30 minutes, including chilling time.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for heat.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika or add a touch of smoked salmon to the yolk mixture.
Herb-Infused: Substitute chives with fresh dill, parsley, or tarragon for a different herbal profile.
Avocado Deviled Eggs: Replace some or all of the mayo with mashed avocado for a modern twist.
Pickled Relish: Mix in a spoonful of sweet pickle relish for extra tang and texture.

storage/reheating

Store deviled eggs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain freshness, place a layer of plastic wrap directly over the eggs to prevent the filling from drying out. These eggs should not be frozen or reheated, as the texture and quality will deteriorate.

FAQs

Can I boil the eggs in advance?

Yes, you can boil the eggs up to 3 days in advance. Store them unpeeled in the refrigerator until you’re ready to prepare the filling.

How do I make the yolk filling extra smooth?

Use a food processor or fine mesh sieve to achieve a silky-smooth consistency in the yolk mixture.

What’s the best way to pipe the filling?

Use a piping bag with a star or round tip for a clean and decorative look. A zip-top bag with a snipped corner also works well.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, the filling can be made a day ahead and stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Assemble just before serving for best results.

How do I avoid overcooked eggs with green yolks?

Follow the boiling method closely—remove the pot from heat after boiling and let the eggs sit covered for 10–12 minutes, then transfer them immediately to an ice bath.

Are there dairy-free alternatives?

Yes, ensure the mayonnaise used is dairy-free (most are), and avoid any dairy-based garnishes or additions.

Can I use Dijon mustard instead of yellow mustard?

Absolutely. Dijon mustard adds a sharper, more robust flavor to the yolk filling.

What if I don’t have vinegar?

You can substitute vinegar with lemon juice or omit it entirely, though it adds a nice brightness to the filling.

How do I store leftover deviled eggs?

Place them in a single layer in an airtight container and refrigerate. Consume within 48 hours.

Can I double or triple the recipe?

Yes, simply scale up the ingredient quantities proportionally. This recipe is easy to multiply for larger gatherings.

Conclusion

Classic Deviled Eggs with Chives and Crumb Topping are a timeless appetizer that never goes out of style. Easy to prepare, visually appealing, and full of flavor, they bring elegance to any meal or event. Whether you’re preparing them for a family dinner or an upscale party, these deviled eggs deliver sophistication and satisfaction in every bite.