Ham deviled eggs are a tasty twist on the classic recipe! Creamy yolks mix with ham and spices to create a fun and flavorful filling, all stuffed inside hard-boiled egg whites.
Add a sprinkle of paprika on top for an extra pop of color! These make a great snack or party treat, and I can’t resist going back for seconds. Who can say no to these little bites of joy? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are the star of this dish. For a slightly softer texture, you could try using medium or extra-large eggs. If you want to go with pastured or organic eggs, they’ll taste even richer!
Mayonnaise: Traditional mayonnaise keeps it creamy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try Greek yogurt or an avocado-based mayo. Both add creaminess without the extra calories.
Dijon Mustard: This gives it a nice tang. If you prefer milder flavors, regular yellow mustard works well, or for a little kick, use spicy brown mustard.
Ham: Diced cooked ham brings a savory flavor. If you’re vegetarian, you can swap this with diced bell peppers or a smoky tofu. For a unique twist, try turkey or bacon bits!
What’s the Best Way to Hard-Boil Eggs?
Hard-boiling eggs perfectly is important for deviled eggs. Here’s a foolproof method:
- Start with cold eggs in a saucepan. Add cold water until there’s an inch above the eggs.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then cover and remove from heat. Set a timer for 10-12 minutes.
- Transfer eggs to an ice bath for 5 minutes to stop cooking and make peeling easier.
Following this method ensures tender yolks and firm whites, so your deviled eggs are perfectly creamy and delicious!
How to Make Ham Deviled Eggs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 ounces chopped or finely diced cooked ham, plus extra slices for garnish
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped chives, plus extra for garnish
- Paprika, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus 30 minutes of chilling time. You’ll spend a little more time boiling and cooling the eggs, but all in all, you’ll have these delicious deviled eggs ready in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Eggs:
Begin by placing the eggs in a single layer in a saucepan. Cover them with cold water until there’s about an inch of water above the eggs. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, cover the pan, take it off the heat, and let it sit for 10-12 minutes.
2. Cool the Eggs:
After the time is up, carefully drain the hot water and transfer the eggs to a bowl filled with ice water. Let them cool completely for about 5 minutes. This makes peeling them much easier!
3. Prepare the Filling:
Gently peel the cooled eggs and slice them in half lengthwise. Remove the yolks and place them in a medium-sized bowl. Set the egg whites aside on a serving platter. Mash the yolks with a fork until they are crumbly.
4. Mix the Ingredients:
Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper to the mashed yolks. Mix everything together until it becomes smooth and creamy. Then, fold in the chopped ham and chopped chives, but save a few chives for garnish!
5. Assemble the Deviled Eggs:
Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each egg white half with the yolk mixture. Make it as neat or as fun as you like! Garnish each deviled egg with a small slice of ham folded on top, and sprinkle a little paprika and chopped chives over them for a finishing touch.
6. Chill and Serve:
Chill the deviled eggs in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors. Enjoy your delightful Ham Deviled Eggs as a perfect appetizer or snack!
They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Egg Substitutes for This Recipe?
While this recipe relies on real eggs for the classic taste and texture, if you want to try a vegan version, you can use tofu to replicate the creaminess. Silken tofu blended with a bit of mustard and turmeric can create an egg-free filling.
How Do I Ensure My Eggs Are Easy to Peel?
To make peeling easier, try using slightly older eggs (about a week old) instead of fresh ones. Additionally, cooling the eggs in an ice bath immediately after boiling helps contract the egg whites, making them easier to remove from the shell.
Can I Make These Deviled Eggs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and fill the egg whites a day in advance. Just store them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. Wait to add the garnishes until just before serving for the best presentation.
How Do I Store Leftover Deviled Eggs?
Any leftover deviled eggs should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. They can typically last for 2-3 days. It’s best to consume them within this timeframe for optimal freshness and flavor!