These spicy jalapeño popper deviled eggs are a tasty twist on a classic! Creamy yolks mix with jalapeños and cheese, giving each bite a fun kick.
They’re perfect for parties or as a snack when you’re feeling a bit adventurous! I love how easy they are to whip up, and you can adjust the spice just how you like it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are ideal for this recipe as they provide enough space for a satisfying filling. If you’re looking for a lower cholesterol option, you can use egg whites instead and reduce the amount of filling.
Cream Cheese: I love the creaminess of softened cream cheese. If you’re dairy-free, use a vegan cream cheese alternative for a similar effect.
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños are a must for that zesty kick. If you’re sensitive to heat, feel free to use green bell peppers instead. Pickled jalapeños can also be a tasty alternative!
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds crunch and smoky flavor. You can go for turkey bacon or even skip it for a vegetarian version. Just add a bit of smoked paprika for a smoky taste.
How Do I Hard-Boil Eggs Perfectly Every Time?
Making perfect hard-boiled eggs can be tricky, but following these steps will help:
- Place eggs in a single layer in a pot and cover them with water—ensure the water is about an inch above the eggs.
- Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, cover the pot, take it off the heat, and allow it to sit for 10-12 minutes.
- Cool the eggs quickly by transferring them to an ice water bath for 5 minutes. This helps prevent a green ring around the yolk.
With these tips, you’ll have beautifully cooked eggs ready for your deviled creation!
Spicy Jalapeño Popper Deviled Eggs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large eggs
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3-4 jalapeños, diced (plus extra for slices to garnish)
- 3 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Smoked paprika, for garnish
- Chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus another 30 minutes to chill before serving. You’ll spend some time boiling and cooling the eggs, but the mix-and-stuff process is quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Eggs:
Start by placing your eggs in a single layer in a pot. Cover them with water, making sure it’s about an inch above the eggs. Heat the pot on medium-high until it starts to boil.
2. Cover and Let Sit:
Once the water is boiling, cover the pot, take it off the heat and let it sit for about 10-12 minutes. This will cook the eggs perfectly.
3. Cool the Eggs:
Drain the hot water and immediately transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water. Let them chill for at least 5 minutes. This makes peeling easier!
4. Prepare the Eggs:
Once cooled, peel the eggs carefully. Slice each egg in half lengthwise and gently scoop out the yolks into a medium bowl.
5. Mix the Filling:
Mash the yolks with a fork until crumbly. Then, add the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, and crumbled bacon. Mix everything together until nice and smooth.
6. Season to Taste:
Don’t forget to add salt and pepper according to your taste! A little bit goes a long way.
7. Fill the Egg Whites:
Now, you can either spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg whites. Be generous with the filling—it’s the best part!
8. Garnish:
Top each deviled egg half with a slice of jalapeño, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, and crumbled bacon if you like. Fresh chives add a nice touch too!
9. Chill Before Serving:
For the best flavor, chill your deviled eggs in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This lets all those yummy flavors meld together!
Enjoy the spicy, creamy kick of these jalapeño popper deviled eggs! They’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Can I Use Hard-Boiled Eggs That Are Already Cooked?
Absolutely! If you have pre-cooked hard-boiled eggs on hand, you can use those to save time. Just make sure they are refrigerated and not past their expiration date for the best taste and safety.
What’s a Good Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, vegan cream cheese works great! You could also use Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative, but the flavor and texture may change slightly.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
To adjust the heat, simply reduce the number of jalapeños in the filling or opt for milder peppers like Anaheim or Poblano. You can also remove the seeds from the jalapeños, as that’s where most of the heat is concentrated.
How Do I Store Leftover Deviled Eggs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If possible, keep the eggs on a plate with a cover to prevent them from absorbing other odors in the refrigerator.
