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Classic Church Lady Deviled Eggs

classic church lady deviled eggs - featured image

A southern classic deviled eggs recipe featuring a creamy, tangy filling with a hint of smoked paprika and subtle sweetness, perfect for potlucks and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 large eggs, hard-boiled
  • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise (Duke’s or Hellmann’s recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon cider vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon granulated sugar
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Smoked paprika, for garnish
  • Chives or green onions, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Place 6 large eggs in a single layer in a medium saucepan. Cover with cold water about 1 inch above the eggs.
  2. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. As soon as it boils, cover the pan and remove from heat. Let sit for 12 minutes.
  3. Immediately transfer eggs to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking. Chill for at least 10 minutes.
  4. Tap each egg gently on the counter to crack the shell all around, then peel under running water.
  5. Slice eggs in half lengthwise, carefully scoop out yolks into a mixing bowl. Set whites aside on a serving plate.
  6. Mash yolks with a fork or potato masher until fine crumbs form. Add mayonnaise, yellow mustard, cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth but creamy.
  7. Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg white halves, mounding slightly.
  8. Sprinkle smoked paprika evenly over the filled eggs. Add chopped chives or green onions if using.
  9. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld and filling firm up slightly.

Notes

Use eggs about a week old for easier peeling. Chill eggs in ice water immediately after boiling to stop cooking and ease peeling. If yolk filling is too thick, add a splash of milk or more mayo to loosen. Chilling the filled eggs enhances flavor and texture. For a lighter filling, substitute mayo with Greek yogurt or avocado oil-based mayo for dairy-free. Use a piping bag with a star tip for elegant presentation.

Nutrition

Keywords: deviled eggs, southern recipe, church potluck, classic deviled eggs, smoked paprika, easy appetizer