Deviled eggs are the quintessential party food, beloved for their creamy, tangy filling and versatility. They’re the dish that graces holiday tables, summer picnics, and casual get-togethers alike. There’s something inherently nostalgic about deviled eggs; they often remind us of cherished family gatherings or special occasions where the simple joy of good food brings people together. I recall the excitement of preparing deviled eggs with my grandmother every holiday season. Her secret ingredient was a dash of paprika, a touch that made her deviled eggs the highlight of our festive meals. This recipe is inspired by those fond memories, with a few modern twists that elevate this classic dish.
In this version of deviled eggs, we’re taking the traditional recipe up a notch by incorporating crumbled bacon, sharp Cheddar cheese, and fresh chives. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also add a delightful texture to the creamy filling. The combination of mayonnaise and sour cream creates a rich and smooth base, while Dijon mustard and fresh lemon juice provide a tangy kick that perfectly balances the richness. This recipe is not just about making deviled eggs; it’s about creating a dish that brings people together and adds a touch of elegance to any spread.
Ingredients
14 hard-cooked eggs
½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream
1½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
¼ teaspoon black pepper
⅓ cup crumbled cooked bacon
¼ cup (1 ounce) finely shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or scallion (green onion) tops
Instructions
1. Prepare the Eggs
Start by preparing the eggs. Place them in a large saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, remove the pan from heat and cover with a lid. Let the eggs sit for 12 minutes to ensure they’re fully cooked.
After the eggs have finished cooking, transfer them to a bowl of ice water to cool completely. This helps stop the cooking process and makes peeling the eggs easier. Once the eggs are cool, gently crack the shells and peel them.
2. Slice and Remove Yolks
Carefully slice each egg in half lengthwise. Using a small spoon, gently scoop out the yolks and place them into a medium-sized bowl. Set the reserved egg white halves aside on a serving platter.
For a little extra texture, finely chop 4 of the egg white halves and set them aside. These will be added to the filling later.
3. Make the Filling
Mash the egg yolks with a fork until they are crumbly. Add the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, and black pepper to the bowl. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Fold in the finely chopped egg whites, crumbled bacon, shredded Cheddar cheese, and chopped chives or scallion tops. The mixture should be well combined, with the bacon and cheese evenly distributed throughout.
4. Fill the Egg Whites
Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each egg white half with the yolk mixture. Aim for a heaping tablespoon of filling in each egg white. The goal is to create a generous mound of the creamy filling. If you’re using a piping bag, you can use a decorative tip to make the presentation even more appealing.
5. Garnish and Serve
For an extra touch of elegance, garnish the deviled eggs with additional chopped chives, a sprinkle of paprika, or even a few extra crumbles of bacon. Serve the deviled eggs chilled, and enjoy!
Variations and Substitutions
Meat Variations: While bacon adds a delicious smoky flavor, you can substitute it with other ingredients if you prefer. Try using crumbled sausage or even diced ham for different flavor profiles.
Cheese Options: If sharp Cheddar isn’t your favorite, feel free to use other types of cheese. Pepper Jack adds a spicy kick, while a milder cheese like Swiss or Gruyère will give a different texture and taste.
Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro can be used instead of chives for a different flavor. Additionally, a pinch of smoked paprika or hot sauce can add a bit of heat if desired.
Low-Fat or Dairy-Free: For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt in place of the sour cream and mayonnaise. There are also vegan mayonnaise options available if you want to make a dairy-free version.
Add-ins: Consider incorporating other ingredients like finely chopped pickles, capers, or olives into the filling for added complexity.
Conclusion
Deviled eggs are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that can be tailored to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. This recipe combines traditional flavors with modern twists, creating a creamy and flavorful filling that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. The addition of bacon, cheese, and fresh chives not only enhances the taste but also adds delightful textures to each bite.
Preparing deviled eggs can be a fun and rewarding experience, allowing you to experiment with different ingredients and garnishes. Whether you’re making them for a holiday celebration, a casual brunch, or just a family dinner, these deviled eggs are sure to be enjoyed by everyone. So go ahead, make a batch, and savor the deliciousness of this classic dish with a fresh and exciting twist.
