9 Tips for Making Great Deviled Eggs, America’s Most Underrated Snack

I think I’m in the majority when I say that diabolically eggs are one of my all-time favorite side dishes. Although they normally only appear on my dining room table during the holidays, I look forward to playing with the recipe every year.

Most recently, my go-to recipe included mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, dill pickle juice or chopped pickles, salt, pepper and paprika. But there are tons of other deviled egg variations you can try. So we asked Chef Tyler Florenceco-owner of Wayfare TavernFood Network star, cookbook author and TV host, for his best deviled egg tips. Plus, we scoured Reddit to see how others are wowing their guests with eye-catching ingredients for deviled eggs.

Here’s everything you need to know.

Sorting out the eggs

The first step, Florence says, is choosing the right type of eggs.

“Creating the perfect devil’s egg starts with the quality of the eggs,” he says. “I prefer to use fresh, local eggs for their rich flavor. After cooking, I cool them in ice water to make peeling easier.”

Read more: Here’s how long eggs last in the refrigerator

Make peeling the eggs a breeze

For many, the most dreaded part of making deviled eggs is peeling dozens of hard-boiled eggs at once. But Florence has a helpful tip for this step: add “a dash of vinegar and salt” to your boiling water.

“This helps with peeling by preventing the egg white from sticking to the shell,” he says. “After boiling, tap the egg gently on a hard surface to crack the shell. Then roll it up to break it further, creating more surface area to make peeling easier. If you’re still having trouble, stab a spoon between the shell and the egg and gently twist to lift the shell away.”

Add chopped pickles or celery for crunch

Personally, I use dill pickles in my deviled eggs, but any type of pickle would work, and it’s a great way to add a salty – or even sweet – crunch. A flavor of your choice would also suffice.

Apple cider vinegar can kick your eggs up a notch

Multiple Reddit users agree that adding a dash apple cider vinegar is another easy way to increase the flavor profile. However, other types of vinegar would also work. Florence says he mixes a touch of vinegar, mayonnaise, mustard and spices with his cooked egg yolks.

“Achieving the right balance between creaminess and spiciness is essential,” he adds.

Read more: Do you want apple cider vinegar without the harsh taste? Try these tasty ACV drinks

Use pickled eggs

When asked about their best deviled egg recipes, one Reddit user They said they make a specific type of devil’s egg at Easter hard-boiled eggs pickled in beets. They are bright in color and rich in taste.

Marinate your eggs

In the same thread – which has generated dozens of comments and recipes – another user says they soak their eggs for up to twelve hours in soy sauce, miso paste, brown sugar and bourbon for a unique flavor.

Add a touch of warmth

If you or your family are fans of spicy food or just want a light kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or diced jalapenño in the egg yolks are great ways to achieve this.

Use a piping nozzle for the yolks

Whether you already have one on hand from decorating desserts, or you want to do so buy one especially for your deviled eggsWith a piping nozzle, your eggs will look as delicious as they taste. If you’re in a pinch, you can also use a plastic storage bag by cutting the end off a corner.

Choosing the right dish to serve the eggs will also make them stand out.

“A colorful plate or simple serving board can enhance its presentation,” says Florence. “In my home we collect vintage egg plates to use at family dinners and gatherings, which can often be found at estate sales and antique stores.”

Garnish your deviled eggs

As a finishing touch, you can sprinkle your deviled eggs with paprika or curry powder for a hint of color and extra flavor.

“To make the deviled eggs stand out, consider adding unexpected ingredients like smoked paprika, baconpickle juice or sriracha for heat,” says Florence. “Fresh herbs like dill or chives can also add a nice twist. Always taste as you go to find the perfect balance.”