Creamy and tangy with just the right touch of seasoning, these classic deviled eggs are topped with fresh chives and a dusting of smoked paprika. They are a beloved party staple—elegant yet easy to make, and always a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Deviled eggs are a time-tested favorite for many reasons:
- Simple ingredients with maximum flavor
- Elegant presentation with minimal effort
- Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or addition to a buffet table
- Easily scalable for small or large groups
- Customizable with countless flavor variations
- Naturally gluten-free and low in carbs
- Make-ahead friendly for stress-free entertaining
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- large eggs
- mayonnaise
- Dijon mustard
- white vinegar or lemon juice
- salt and black pepper
- paprika (smoked or sweet)
- chopped fresh chives
- optional: extra grated yolk for topping
Directions
- Place eggs in a single layer in a saucepan. Cover with cold water by at least an inch.
- Bring water to a full boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, remove the pan from heat, cover with a lid, and let sit for 10–12 minutes.
- Drain the eggs and cool them under cold running water or in an ice bath. Peel the eggs once cool.
- Slice the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks. Place yolks in a bowl and set egg whites aside.
- Mash the yolks with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar (or lemon juice), salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg whites using a small spoon or piping bag.
- Garnish with a light dusting of paprika, chopped fresh chives, and grated yolk if using.
- Chill until ready to serve.
Servings and timing
Servings: 12 deviled egg halves (6 whole eggs)
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: About 25 minutes
Variations
- Add a kick: Mix in a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for spicy deviled eggs.
- Try different mustards: Swap Dijon for whole grain or spicy brown mustard.
- Add texture: Sprinkle with crispy bacon bits or toasted breadcrumbs.
- Herb variations: Use dill, parsley, or tarragon in place of chives.
- Avocado twist: Replace some of the mayo with mashed avocado for a green, creamy variation.
- Pickle flavor: Add finely chopped pickles or a spoon of pickle juice for tang.
- Smoked salmon topping: Top with a sliver of smoked salmon for an upscale appetizer.
- Use Greek yogurt: For a lighter version, substitute part or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store deviled eggs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Do not freeze: Deviled eggs do not freeze well due to texture changes.
Make-ahead tip: Boil the eggs and prepare the filling a day in advance. Assemble the day of serving for best texture and freshness.
FAQs
How do I prevent the yolks from turning green?
Avoid overcooking the eggs and immediately cool them in cold water after cooking to prevent the green ring around the yolks.
Can I make deviled eggs ahead of time?
Yes, prepare them up to a day ahead. Keep them chilled and covered to maintain freshness.
What’s the best way to peel boiled eggs?
Use slightly older eggs and cool them in an ice bath before peeling. Rolling them gently on the counter can also help.
Can I use different types of vinegar?
Yes, apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used for a subtle flavor change.
Is there a low-fat version?
Replace mayonnaise with low-fat mayo or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Can I add more toppings?
Certainly—consider garnishing with capers, crispy onions, or even microgreens.
How do I pipe the yolk mixture neatly?
Use a plastic bag with the corner snipped off or a piping bag with a star tip for an elegant look.
What’s the difference between smoked and sweet paprika?
Smoked paprika has a deeper, woodsy flavor, while sweet paprika is milder and slightly sweet. Either works, depending on preference.
Can I serve them warm?
Deviled eggs are traditionally served cold, but they can be brought to room temperature just before serving.
Are deviled eggs keto-friendly?
Yes, they are naturally low in carbs and high in fat, making them suitable for a keto diet.
Conclusion
Classic deviled eggs with chives and paprika are a timeless appetizer that balances creamy richness with zesty flavor and elegant presentation. Perfect for holidays, parties, or picnics, these bite-sized treats are as versatile as they are delicious. Whether you stick with the traditional version or try a creative twist, they are sure to be a highlight of any spread.
Print
Classic Deviled Eggs with Chives and Paprika
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 12 mins
- Total Time: 27 mins
- Yield: 12 deviled eggs 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy, tangy deviled eggs topped with chopped chives and a sprinkle of smoked paprika—an irresistible, bite-sized appetizer perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp white vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Paprika, for garnish
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
- Optional: extra grated yolk for topping
Instructions
- Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and cover. Let sit for 10–12 minutes.
- Drain eggs and cool under cold water. Peel and cut in half lengthwise.
- Remove yolks and place them in a bowl. Set whites aside.
- Mash yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Spoon or pipe yolk mixture back into egg whites.
- Garnish with a dusting of paprika, chopped chives, and optional grated yolk.
- Chill until ready to serve.
Notes
- Use older eggs for easier peeling.
- Customize with additions like relish, hot sauce, or minced pickles.
- Best served chilled; can be made a few hours in advance.
- For a smoother filling, pass yolk mixture through a fine sieve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 deviled egg
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
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