Southern Deviled Eggs

Sometimes one small change is all you need to give a vintage dish a fresh new look and taste. These southern deviled eggs are one such recipe. They’re a variation on classic deviled eggs, and they have all the same building blocks: hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, and paprika. The twist is one simple addition: sweet pickle relish.

Now, if you have roots in the South, this recipe is the way to make the best deviled eggs. However, for those who up until this point have not experienced southern deviled eggs with relish before, you’re in for a real treat. The pickle relish gives the filling a bit of added sweetness and acidity, balancing the bite of the mustard and the subtle heat of the paprika. It’s a tasty modification that adds depth to the filling without overcomplicating the recipe.

Ingredients for Deviled Eggs with Relish

• Hard-boiled eggs: Perfectly cooked boiled eggs are the base for this southern deviled delight. There are myriad ways to boil eggs, including on the stovetop or in the air fryer. You can even cook hard-boiled eggs in the oven!
• Mayonnaise: For the filling, you’ll need a few tablespoons of mayonnaise. The mayo adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together so the filling holds its shape when piped or scooped. Choose from one of our Test Kitchen’s best mayonnaise brands, or make homemade mayonnaise in your own kitchen (it’s easier than you think!).
• Sweet pickle relish: This is the simple, special ingredient that makes these deviled eggs southern. For another fun twist, try using this old-fashioned end-of-garden relish instead.
• Mustard: Just a pinch of mustard is all you need to boost the yellow color of the filling and add some zippy bite. Want it even zippier? Try using homemade Dijon mustard instead.
• Garnish: We suggest a garnish of paprika and a sprinkle of chopped fresh dill for these superb eggs.

Directions

Step 1: Slice and separate

Slice the peeled hard-cooked eggs in half lengthwise. Remove the yolks, and transfer them to a small bowl. Arrange the egg whites on a serving platter, and set aside.

Step 2: Mash and mix

Mash the yolks. Stir in the mayonnaise, relish, mustard, salt and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Spoon and serve

TMB Studio

Pipe or spoon the filling into the egg whites. Sprinkle with paprika and dill (if desired) before serving.

Editor’s Tip: If you don’t have a piping bag, no worries. You can pipe with a Ziploc bag, too.

Southern Deviled Egg Variations

• Reach for dill relish: If you’re not a fan of sweet pickle relish, you can opt for dill pickle relish instead.
• Add some spice: If you like spicy deviled eggs, add a pinch of ground cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the filling.
• Choose a southern mayo: If available in your area, choose a mayonnaise brand born and bred in the South, like Duke’s Mayo, for the most authentic taste. With that said, you can use any mayonnaise or even Miracle Whip in southern deviled eggs. P.S.: Here’s the difference between Miracle Whip vs. mayo.

Can you make southern deviled eggs ahead of time?

Yes. As with most deviled egg recipes, you can prepare southern deviled eggs up to one day in advance. Keep them refrigerated in an airtight container until ready to serve. If making ahead, we suggest omitting the garnish until serving for the best taste and freshest appearance.

Can you freeze southern deviled eggs?

No. While you can freeze cooked eggs, recipes with hard-boiled eggs do not freeze well. The egg whites tend to get rubbery and tough once thawed. You can, however, freeze leftover deviled egg filling in a freezer-safe airtight container for up to three months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before using.

Southern Deviled Egg Tips

TMB Studio

What’s the best way to peel hard-boiled eggs?

How easy or difficult your eggs are to peel will depend on how fresh the eggs are and how you prepare your hard-boiled eggs. Eggs that are too fresh can be difficult to peel, so use older eggs for hard-boiled eggs (here’s how to tell if eggs are fresh). If you’re still having a tough time peeling eggs, take a look at how to peel a hard-boiled egg.

When can you serve deviled eggs?

This southern deviled eggs recipe would be great to prepare for a brunch or potluck. Pair the eggs with baked ham and fruit salad for brunch, or serve alongside any of these party-ready slider recipes for your next gathering.