If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping appetizer that’s creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of indulgent, look no further than the Million Dollar Deviled Eggs Recipe. This classic party favorite gets elevated with a luscious blend of cream cheese and fresh chives, making each bite irresistibly rich and flavorful. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering, a picnic, or just craving a gourmet twist on a simple snack, these deviled eggs are guaranteed to steal the spotlight at any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward ingredients, each playing a unique role in crafting the perfect balance of creaminess, tang, and fresh brightness. These staples work together seamlessly to create a filling that’s smooth and flavorful, while the chives and paprika add pops of color and that little extra something special.
- 12 large eggs: The foundation of our dish, providing that rich and satisfying base.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and moisture, binding the filling beautifully.
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened: Gives the filling a luxuriously smooth texture and a subtle tang.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Introduces a gentle sharpness that brightens each bite.
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar: Balances the richness with a hint of acidity.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings depth and a savory kick without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a soft, aromatic background flavor for complexity.
- Salt, to taste: Enhances and rounds out all the other flavors.
- Pepper, to taste: Provides a subtle heat and balances the creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (plus extra for garnish): Infuses a fresh, mild onion flavor and a bright green color.
- Paprika, for garnish: Adds a hint of sweetness and vivid color that makes the eggs pop.
How to Make Million Dollar Deviled Eggs Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Eggs Perfectly
Start by placing your eggs in a single layer in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Heat over medium-high fire until you reach a rolling boil. Once boiling, cover the pot, take it off the heat, and let the eggs rest in hot water for exactly 12 minutes. This technique ensures your eggs cook just right, resulting in firm whites and creamy yolks without the gray rings.
Step 2: Cool and Peel the Eggs
After boiling, transfer your eggs to an ice water bath to halt the cooking process and make peeling easier. Let them sit for at least 5 minutes. Gently crack each egg and peel under running water to remove shells smoothly without damaging the tender whites. Pat them dry with a paper towel to prepare for slicing.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Whites and Yolks
Slice each egg in half lengthwise, revealing those gorgeous golden yolks. Carefully scoop out the yolks into a mixing bowl while setting the whites aside on a platter. This step lays the groundwork for your creamy filling.
Step 4: Make the Deviled Egg Filling
To the yolks, add mayonnaise, softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a fork or whisk to mash and mix everything until it becomes luxuriously smooth and creamy. The cream cheese is what takes this filling from ordinary to Million Dollar worthy, creating an indulgent texture that melts in your mouth.
Step 5: Stir in Fresh Chives
Fold in the chopped fresh chives carefully so their bright green flecks are evenly distributed. These little bursts of color and flavor add vibrancy and a delicate onion note that brightens the richness of the filling.
Step 6: Fill the Egg Whites
Using a piping bag or a small spoon, generously fill each egg white half with the creamy yolk mixture. Be generous—these deviled eggs deserve to be heaping with flavor!
Step 7: Garnish and Chill
Sprinkle a dash of paprika over the top for a subtle smoky sweetness and a beautiful pop of red. Add extra chopped chives for a final touch of freshness and color. Arrange your eggs on a platter and chill them in the fridge until serving to let the flavors meld.
How to Serve Million Dollar Deviled Eggs Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of paprika never fails to brighten these deviled eggs visually and taste-wise. Adding a few extra chopped fresh chives on top gives an inviting fresh look and just a hint of herbal sharpness that complements the creamy filling perfectly.
Side Dishes
Million Dollar Deviled Eggs Recipe pairs wonderfully with fresh, crisp salads, crunchy vegetable platters, or even more indulgent sides like bacon-wrapped asparagus or cheesy potato casserole. They also shine as a starter before a hearty main course, providing a delicious burst of flavor to whet your appetite.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging your deviled eggs on a bed of mixed greens or edible flowers for an elegant centerpiece. For a fun twist, serve them in miniature lettuce cups or atop crackers to add some crunch. You can even experiment by topping with small bits of smoked salmon or crispy pancetta for a gourmet upgrade.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Deviled eggs are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the filling and egg whites together to maintain moisture and flavor, but try to consume them soon to enjoy that perfect creamy texture.
Freezing
Because of the creamy filling, freezing these deviled eggs is not recommended. Freezing can cause the filling to become watery or grainy when thawed. It’s best to prepare them fresh or at most a day ahead for optimal taste and texture.
Reheating
Since deviled eggs are a cold dish, reheating is unnecessary. If you prefer them slightly less chilled, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to bring out the flavors even more.
FAQs
Can I use mayo substitutes in the Million Dollar Deviled Eggs Recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter yet still creamy filling, but expect a slight change in flavor and texture. Cream cheese helps maintain that rich, luxurious mouthfeel regardless of the mayo replacement.
What’s the best way to peel hard-boiled eggs?
Plunging boiled eggs into an ice bath right after cooking makes peeling much easier by shrinking the egg white away from the shell. Peeling under running water also helps remove stubborn shell bits without damaging the egg.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
While this specific Million Dollar Deviled Eggs Recipe relies on eggs and dairy, you could experiment with vegan mayonnaise and tofu-based fillings, but expect a very different texture and taste. For traditional deviled eggs, classic eggs and dairy are essential.
How far in advance can I prepare Million Dollar Deviled Eggs Recipe?
You can prepare the filling and boil eggs up to a day in advance, then assemble just before serving to keep the egg whites firm and prevent them from becoming soggy. Store filled eggs covered in the fridge until ready to serve.
What can I add to the filling for extra flavor?
For a flavor boost, try mixing in a little finely chopped pickles or a dash of hot sauce. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can also add a delightful twist to this Million Dollar Deviled Eggs Recipe, making it uniquely yours.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Million Dollar Deviled Eggs Recipe that makes it a perennial favorite for good reason. It’s easy to prepare yet feels like a luxurious treat every time. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—once you taste that creamy, tangy filling enhanced with fresh herbs, you’ll understand why it’s worth every bit of its name. Trust me, your next gathering will thank you for it!
Print
Million Dollar Deviled Eggs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 deviled egg halves (12 eggs)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Classic Million Dollar Deviled Eggs feature creamy, flavorful filling made with mayonnaise, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and fresh chives, all nestled inside perfectly boiled egg whites and garnished with paprika. This easy-to-make appetizer is perfect for parties, picnics, or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Deviled Eggs
- 12 large eggs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (plus extra for garnish)
- Paprika, for garnish
Instructions
- Boil the Eggs: Place eggs in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, cover the pot, remove it from heat, and let the eggs sit for 12 minutes to cook through.
- Cool the Eggs: Transfer the eggs immediately to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let them cool for at least 5 minutes, making them easier to peel.
- Peel the Eggs: Gently crack the eggshells and peel under running water to remove the shell every bit cleanly. Then pat the peeled eggs dry with a paper towel.
- Prepare the Egg Whites: Slice each egg in half lengthwise. Carefully remove the yolks and place them in a mixing bowl. Set the empty egg whites aside on a serving platter.
- Make the Filling: Add mayonnaise, softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the yolks. Mash and mix everything together until the filling is smooth, creamy, and well combined.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Fold the chopped fresh chives into the yolk filling, distributing the herbs evenly for fresh flavor.
- Fill the Egg Whites: Using a piping bag or a small spoon, carefully fill each egg white half with the creamy yolk mixture, shaping a neat, attractive mound.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle paprika and extra chopped chives over the filled eggs for a colorful, flavorful finish. Arrange on a platter and serve chilled for best taste.
Notes
- For easier peeling, use eggs that are at least a week old.
- The cream cheese adds extra creaminess but can be omitted or substituted with additional mayonnaise if desired.
- Feel free to adjust seasonings like garlic powder and onion powder to match your taste preferences.
- Deviled eggs can be prepared a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- For a decorative touch, use a star piping tip to fill the egg whites.
