Jalapeño Popper Deviled Eggs are a fun twist on the classic snack! With creamy yolks mixed with cheese and spicy jalapeños, they pack a flavorful punch.
What’s not to love? These eggs are a hit at gatherings and the perfect way to spice up your usual deviled eggs. You’ll want to make a double batch because they disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are the base of this dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using quail eggs for a fancy twist! Just keep in mind they might need a bit less cooking time.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess to the yolk filling. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for a tangy touch.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a great flavor here. If you prefer something milder, try mozzarella or Monterey Jack. Pepper Jack cheese can also add extra heat!
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños give the pop of flavor. For a milder version, use roasted red peppers or omit seeds and veins. Want more heat? Try serrano peppers instead!
Bacon: It adds a crunchy, salty element. Feel free to swap in turkey bacon for a leaner option or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version. Crisped chickpeas can add a satisfying crunch, too!
How Do I Cook the Perfect Hard-Boiled Eggs?
Cooking eggs may seem straightforward, but getting them just right takes a bit of care. Here’s a quick method to ensure they’re perfectly cooked every time.
- Start by placing your eggs in a single layer in a pot. Cover them with cold water by about an inch.
- Bring the water to a boil on medium-high heat. When it starts bubbling, cover the pot and remove it from the heat.
- Let the eggs sit in the hot water for 12 minutes. This will cook them through without being overdone.
- To cool them quickly and stop the cooking process, transfer the eggs to an ice bath for about 5 minutes.
- After cooling, gently tap and roll the eggs on the counter to crack the shells, then peel under cold running water.
Following this technique helps ensure your eggs are fully cooked, easy to peel, and perfectly tender!
Jalapeño Popper Deviled Eggs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large eggs
- 3 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeds removed and finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 3 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Paprika, for garnish
- Slices of fresh jalapeño, for garnish
- Chopped fresh chives or green onions, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep, plus around 12 minutes for cooking the eggs and an additional 30 minutes to chill. Perfect for a quick and satisfying snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Eggs:
Start by placing your eggs in a single layer in a saucepan and cover them with enough water so there’s about an inch of water above the eggs. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Let Them Cook:
Once the water is boiling, cover the saucepan with a lid and remove it from the heat. Allow the eggs to sit in the hot water for about 12 minutes. This will fully cook them while keeping the yolks tender.
3. Cool the Eggs:
After they’ve sat for 12 minutes, drain the hot water and transfer the eggs to an ice bath (a bowl of ice water) for about 5 minutes. This cools them down quickly and makes them easier to peel.
4. Prepare the Filling:
Peel the cooled eggs and slice them in half lengthwise. Carefully remove the yolks and place them in a medium bowl. Mash the yolks with softened cream cheese, sharp cheddar, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped jalapeños, and half of the crumbled bacon. Mix it all together until it’s nice and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
5. Fill the Egg Whites:
Spoon the yolk mixture back into the egg white halves. You can use a piping bag for a fun presentation if you like!
6. Garnish and Chill:
Sprinkle a touch of paprika on top of each deviled egg for some color. Add a slice of fresh jalapeño, the remaining bacon crumbles, and sprinkle with chopped chives or green onions. Place them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let all the flavors meld together.
Enjoy these spicy, creamy, and crunchy Jalapeño Popper Deviled Eggs as a flavorful appetizer or snack. They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar adds great flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for extra heat, or creamier options like Gouda or Monterey Jack for a different taste.
What if I Don’t Like Spicy Food?
No problem! You can reduce the amount of jalapeños or leave them out entirely. Consider using bell peppers instead for a milder flavor. You can also add some sweet pickles for a different tang without the heat.
Can I Make These Deviled Eggs in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the egg filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just fill the egg whites the day you plan to serve them to keep everything fresh and tasty!
How Should I Store Leftover Deviled Eggs?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to 2 days. Just make sure to add a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent the eggs from sticking together!
