Southern Deviled Eggs Recipe: Tangy, Creamy, and Perfect for Any Occasion

Southern Deviled Eggs are a delightful twist on the classic deviled egg recipe, with a tangy, zesty flavor thanks to the addition of sweet relish, mustard, and sometimes a bit of hot sauce. Whether you’re serving them at a family BBQ, a holiday feast, or just as a savory snack, these eggs are sure to be a hit. In this article, we’ll walk you through the recipe, give you some pro tips, and provide nutritional information so you can enjoy this Southern classic with confidence.

Ingredients

To make the perfect Southern Deviled Eggs, gather the following ingredients:

6 large eggs (hard-boiled)
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
1 teaspoon white vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Paprika (for garnish)
A pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce (optional for extra spice)

Directions

Here’s how to make Southern Deviled Eggs step by step:

Hard-Boil the Eggs
Start by boiling your eggs. Place the eggs in a saucepan, cover them with cold water, and bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the eggs for about 9-10 minutes. Afterward, transfer them to a bowl of ice water to cool down for 5 minutes. This helps with easy peeling.
Peel and Slice the Eggs
Once the eggs are cool, carefully peel them. Slice each egg in half lengthwise, placing the yolks in a mixing bowl and the whites on a serving platter.
Make the Filling
Mash the yolks with a fork until they are crumbly. Then, add the mayonnaise, mustard, sweet pickle relish, vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until smooth and creamy. If you like a bit of heat, feel free to add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Fill the Egg Whites
Spoon the yolk mixture back into the hollowed egg whites, or pipe it in with a piping bag for a more decorative touch. If you’re feeling fancy, top each egg with a sprinkle of paprika for a bit of color.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Southern Deviled Eggs cold as a tasty appetizer or side dish. They’re perfect for picnics, BBQs, or holiday gatherings.

Recipe Notes

Customization: You can add extra ingredients like chopped green onions, bacon bits, or dill pickles to give your deviled eggs an extra punch of flavor.
Tangy Twist: If you prefer a tangier flavor, you can add a teaspoon of mustard pickle relish or dill relish instead of the sweet variety.
Hot Sauce Lovers: To give your eggs a little extra kick, add Tabasco sauce or a few dashes of hot sauce to the filling mixture.

Time and Serving

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 12 halves (serves 6 people)

Kitchen Tools Needed

A saucepan for boiling eggs
A mixing bowl for the yolk mixture
A fork for mashing the yolks
A spoon or piping bag for filling the eggs
A platter for serving

How to Serve Southern Deviled Eggs

Perfect for Parties: These eggs are an ideal appetizer for any gathering. Serve them as part of a larger spread of finger foods, or as a standalone treat.
Brunch or BBQ: Southern Deviled Eggs are fantastic at brunches and BBQs. Pair them with other classic Southern dishes like fried chicken, mac and cheese, or cornbread.
For Holidays: Whether it’s Easter, Thanksgiving, or a Christmas meal, deviled eggs are a Southern favorite and will always be a crowd-pleaser.

Storage

Leftover deviled eggs should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days. If you’re making them ahead of time, it’s best to keep the filling and the egg whites separate until you’re ready to serve them. Once filled, the eggs can be stored for a couple of hours at room temperature, but they should ideally be refrigerated if you plan to store them longer.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	70
Protein	6g
Total Fat	5g
Saturated Fat	1g
Carbohydrates	1g
Fiber	0g
Sugars	1g
Sodium	60mg
Cholesterol	190mg

Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect

Perfect Boiling: To ensure your eggs are easy to peel, use older eggs. Fresh eggs tend to be trickier to peel, so plan ahead if you have the time.
Smooth Filling: If you want an ultra-smooth filling, consider using an immersion blender to mix the yolks with the other ingredients.
Garnish for Extra Flair: Garnishing with a bit of fresh parsley, dill, or crispy bacon bits can make these eggs look even more appetizing.

FAQs About Southern Deviled Eggs

Yes, you can substitute low-fat mayonnaise if you want to reduce the calories, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor and texture slightly.

If you like spicy deviled eggs, try adding a teaspoon of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or even a small diced jalapeño to the filling.

Absolutely! You can make these eggs up to two days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Feel free to add chopped bacon, chives, or dill pickles for more flavor. These additions will complement the mustard and relish.

If the filling is too thick, simply add a teaspoon or two of pickle juice, lemon juice, or even a bit of milk to reach the desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

Southern Deviled Eggs are the perfect appetizer for any occasion, offering a tangy, creamy filling that’s sure to impress your guests. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both delicious and easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a snack, these eggs are sure to be a favorite!

Enjoy making these Southern Deviled Eggs, and don’t forget to get creative with your own variations and additions!