Deviled Eggs with Bacon: A Crowd-Pleasing Twist on a Classic

Deviled eggs are a timeless appetizer that never goes out of style. But when you add crispy bacon to the mix, this classic dish reaches a whole new level of deliciousness. The creamy, tangy filling paired with the smoky, savory crunch of bacon makes these Deviled Eggs with Bacon an irresistible addition to any party or gathering. Whether you’re hosting a holiday event, a picnic, or a casual get-together, these deviled eggs are sure to be a hit.

In this article, we’ll explore the origins of deviled eggs, why bacon makes them even better, and provide a detailed recipe that’s easy to follow and guaranteed to impress your guests.

The Origins of Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs have a long history that dates back to ancient Rome, where boiled eggs were seasoned with spices and served as a first course. The modern version of deviled eggs as we know them today—boiled eggs with the yolks removed, mashed, and mixed with seasonings before being piped back into the egg whites—became popular in the United States in the 19th century.

The term “deviled” refers to the use of spicy or zesty seasonings, such as mustard, pepper, or paprika. Over the years, deviled eggs have evolved with countless variations, from classic versions to more elaborate ones with additional ingredients like avocado, pickles, or in this case, crispy bacon.

Why Add Bacon to Deviled Eggs?

Bacon is one of those ingredients that seems to make everything better, and deviled eggs are no exception. Here’s why bacon works so well in this recipe:

Flavor Contrast: The salty, smoky flavor of bacon pairs perfectly with the creamy, slightly tangy egg filling, adding depth and richness to each bite.
Crispy Texture: The crispiness of bacon adds a delightful textural contrast to the smooth, creamy filling, making each bite more interesting and satisfying.
Visual Appeal: Garnishing deviled eggs with crumbled bacon adds a beautiful pop of color and texture, making the dish even more appetizing.

Health Benefits of Eggs and Bacon

While deviled eggs with bacon may not be the lightest dish on the menu, they still provide some nutritional benefits.

Eggs:

High in Protein: Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is important for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health.
Rich in Vitamins: Eggs are packed with essential vitamins such as vitamin B12, which supports brain function, and vitamin D, which promotes healthy bones.
Source of Healthy Fats: The yolk of an egg contains healthy fats that help with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and provide long-lasting energy.

Bacon:

Source of Protein: While bacon is higher in fat, it also contains protein that helps support muscle maintenance and repair.
Provides Flavor: Bacon adds a concentrated flavor to dishes, meaning that a little bit can go a long way. Using just a small amount in this recipe allows you to enjoy the rich taste without going overboard.

Deviled Eggs with Bacon Recipe

Now that you know why this combination works so well, let’s get to the fun part: making the deviled eggs! This recipe is simple to follow and results in a delicious, creamy filling topped with crispy, salty bacon.

Ingredients:

6 large eggs
3-4 strips of bacon
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon white vinegar or lemon juice
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (plus extra for garnish)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Boil the Eggs: Place the eggs in a medium saucepan and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, remove the pan from heat, cover it with a lid, and let the eggs sit for 10-12 minutes. This method ensures perfectly hard-boiled eggs.
Cool and Peel the Eggs: After the eggs are done, transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let them cool for about 5 minutes. Once cooled, peel the eggs carefully and set them aside.
Cook the Bacon: While the eggs are cooling, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces and set aside.
Prepare the Filling: Slice the hard-boiled eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks. Place the yolks in a small bowl and mash them with a fork until smooth. Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar or lemon juice, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until the filling is creamy and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Fill the Egg Whites: Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each egg white half with the yolk mixture. If you want to get fancy, you can use a star tip for a more decorative presentation.
Garnish with Bacon: Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top of each deviled egg. For extra flavor and color, garnish with a sprinkle of smoked paprika and chopped chives or parsley.
Serve: Arrange the deviled eggs on a platter and serve immediately. If you’re preparing them in advance, store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Optional Variations:

Spicy Deviled Eggs: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the yolk mixture for a spicy kick.
Cheesy Bacon Deviled Eggs: Mix in a tablespoon of grated cheddar cheese with the filling for a cheesy twist.
Avocado Deviled Eggs: Replace half of the mayonnaise with mashed avocado for a creamier and healthier filling.

Tips for Perfect Deviled Eggs with Bacon

Perfect Hard-Boiled Eggs: Overcooking hard-boiled eggs can result in a greenish tint around the yolk and a rubbery texture. To avoid this, be sure to remove the eggs from the hot water after 10-12 minutes and transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
Crispy Bacon: For the best texture, make sure your bacon is cooked until crispy. This will add a satisfying crunch to the creamy deviled eggs.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the deviled eggs up to a day in advance. Simply store the filled eggs (without the bacon) in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just before serving, add the bacon and any other garnishes to keep them fresh and crunchy.

Nutritional Information (Per Deviled Egg Half)

Calories: Approximately 80-100 kcal
Protein: 4g
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 0.5g
Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 0g

Conclusion

Deviled Eggs with Bacon are a fun and flavorful twist on the classic recipe that adds a smoky, crispy element to the dish. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving them at a holiday party, potluck, or casual family gathering. The combination of creamy, tangy filling with crispy bacon makes these deviled eggs truly irresistible, and they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delicious bites of heaven!