Our Best Deviled Eggs

A good Southern deviled egg recipe is every host's secret weapon. When you're attending a potluck and you aren't quite sure what to bring—it's Southern deviled eggs. When the pastor is coming for dinner and an appetizer is required—it's deviled eggs. And, when Easter rolls around, of course, deviled eggs are certainly in order.

Perfecting the art of the Southern deviled egg, though, that can be a battle. The filling shouldn't be runny or too dry, and don't you dare overcook those eggs or else you'll be blessed with a not-so-gorgeous green ring around the yolk. How very unappetizing.

Give our best deviled eggs recipe a try, and your hunt for the perfect Southern deviled eggs will finally be over. Our recipe breaks down how to make deviled eggs for a crowd (it serves 12!), with a no-fail process for the prettiest and most delicious eggs you'll ever see. Just don't forget to use your deviled egg plate—we wouldn't want these little beauties rolling all over a flat platter, now would we?

Why Are They Called 'Deviled' Eggs?

You may wonder where the name "deviled eggs" came from. The word "deviled" was first used in the 18th century to refer to foods with a spicy flavor profile. But these tasty bites date back even further. An early version of deviled eggs can be traced all the way back to Roman times, where cooked eggs were stuffed with a spicy filling for a flavorful appetizer.

Ingredients for Southern Deviled Eggs

This recipe keeps things classic and simple with just seven ingredients needed, two of which are salt and pepper. To make our best deviled eggs, you'll need:

• Hard-cooked eggs: The classic base of deviled eggs. Need help cooking them perfectly? We've got you covered.
• Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and flavor to the filling.
• Sweet pickle relish: For a sweet and tangy crunch.
• Yellow mustard: For a tangy, spicy flavor. Swap with Dijon or whole grain mustard for a different flavor profile.
• Kosher salt and pepper: Enhances the flavor of the filling.
• Paprika: For garnishing the eggs for a hint of color and smokiness. Can swap with cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.

How To Make Southern Deviled Eggs

Making deviled eggs couldn't be more simple. Here's the basic process:

• Step 1. Cook eggs: Just cut your hard-cooked eggs in half lengthwise.
• Step 2. Make filling: Carefully transfer the yolks to a separate bowl. Mash yolks, then stir in mayonnaise and next 4 ingredients.
• Step 3. Stuff egg whites: Spoon into egg whites and sprinkle with paprika before serving. That's it!

Deviled Eggs Variations

No matter what the occasion, we guarantee we have the deviled egg variation you're looking for. From adding herbs and spices to marbling the eggs in tea or pickling them in a beet juice-mixture, there are countless ways to add color, flavor, and texture to your deviled eggs.

For this classic recipe, jazz things up by mixing bacon bits, chopped herbs like dill or parsley, or spices like cayenne pepper into the filling as desired.

Tips for the Best Deviled Eggs

We call these our best deviled eggs for a reason. To ensure success, keep these tips in mind:

• Perfectly cooked eggs: To avoid ending up with yolks with a greenish tint, boil the eggs for 11 minutes, 30 seconds for the perfect texture. Transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
• Use a sharp knife: Use a sharp knife for the cleanest egg halves.
• Season as desired: Taste and season the filling as desired for a flavorful result.
• Pipe the filling: A piping bag or a zip-top bag with one corner snipped off can make filling the egg white cups a whole lot easier (and even more photo-worthy).
• Keep the eggs chilled: Keep the eggs cold until ready to serve for the best flavor and texture.

Can I Make Deviled Eggs Ahead?

To make deviled eggs in advance, cook the eggs and prepare the filling up to 2 days ahead. Store separately in the refrigerator in airtight containers. On the day of your event, assemble and chill the deviled eggs until ready to serve.

More Deviled Eggs Recipes You'll Love

No matter how you like your deviled eggs, we've got a recipe for you:

• Spicy Fried Deviled Eggs
• Creole Deviled Eggs
• Pickle-Packed Deviled Eggs
• Pickled-Shrimp Deviled Eggs
• Pimiento Cheese Deviled Eggs
• Bacon Deviled Eggs
• Green Goddess Deviled Eggs
• Tex-Mex Deviled Eggs
• Beet Pickled Deviled Eggs

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.