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Classic Southern Deviled Eggs Recipe Easy Smoky Paprika Deviled Eggs

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A classic Southern deviled eggs recipe featuring a creamy, tangy filling with a smoky paprika topping that delivers a flavorful punch perfect for gatherings and quick snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 large eggs
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) mayonnaise (Duke’s or Hellmann’s recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons smoky paprika (Spanish smoked paprika preferred)
  • Optional: a few dashes hot sauce

Instructions

  1. Place 12 large eggs in a single layer in a large pot. Cover with cold water about an inch over the eggs. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, then cover and remove from heat. Let sit for 12 minutes.
  2. Drain hot water and immediately transfer eggs to a bowl of ice water. Let chill for at least 10 minutes. Gently tap and roll each egg to crack, then peel under running water to remove shells cleanly.
  3. Slice eggs lengthwise. Carefully remove yolks with a spoon and place them in a mixing bowl. Arrange egg whites on a serving platter.
  4. Mash yolks with a fork until crumbly. Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add hot sauce if desired.
  5. Use a spoon or piping bag to fill the egg whites with the yolk mixture.
  6. Generously dust the tops of the filled eggs with smoky paprika.
  7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and filling firm up slightly. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Use the off-heat steeping method for boiling eggs to avoid green rings and sulfur smell. Peel eggs under cold running water for easier shell removal. Adjust filling moisture by adding more mayo or a teaspoon of milk if dry. Keep filled eggs covered tightly if making ahead to prevent drying out. Do not freeze leftovers as texture will suffer.

Nutrition

Keywords: deviled eggs, Southern recipe, smoky paprika, appetizer, party snack, easy deviled eggs, classic deviled eggs