These Spicy Jalapeño Popper Deviled Eggs pack a flavorful punch with a creamy filling and a hint of heat! Topped with crispy bacon bits, they make a fun twist on a classic dish.
Who doesn’t love spicy snacks? Every bite of these eggs gives a little kick, and they disappear fast at parties. I love serving them with a side of ranch dressing for extra dipping! 🥚🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are essential for this recipe. If you have medium eggs, that works too, but adjust the cooking time slightly. You can also use hard-boiled egg substitutes if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option.
Cream Cheese: This adds richness to the filling. If you’re dairy-free, try using vegan cream cheese. Also, mascarpone cheese is a great alternative for a softer texture.
Jalapeño: Fresh jalapeños bring heat. If you want less spice, remove the seeds and membranes before adding. You could also use diced mild green chiles or banana peppers for a milder flavor.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds crunch and flavor. For a vegetarian option, use crispy fried onions or smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor. There are also plant-based bacon options available!
How Do You Easily Cook Perfect Hard-Boiled Eggs?
Cooking hard-boiled eggs can sometimes be tricky, but using the right method makes it simple. Here’s a quick guide:
- Place eggs in a saucepan, cover with cold water by an inch, and bring to a boil over medium heat.
- After boiling, cover and turn off the heat. Let it sit for 12 minutes.
- Transfer eggs to an ice bath to stop cooking and cool them down quickly, making peeling easier.
Following this method will help you achieve perfectly cooked eggs that are simple to peel, making your deviled egg preparation a breeze!
Spicy Jalapeño Popper Deviled Eggs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large eggs
- 3 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayo
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 jalapeño pepper, finely diced (plus extra slices for garnish)
- 3 strips cooked bacon, chopped (plus extra pieces for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time for cooking and assembling, along with an additional 30 minutes to chill the filled eggs in the refrigerator. In total, you’ll need about 50 minutes before you can enjoy these delicious spicy deviled eggs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Eggs:
Start by placing the eggs in a saucepan and covering them with cold water about an inch above the eggs. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat. Once it reaches a boil, cover the pan, turn off the heat, and let the eggs sit undisturbed for 12 minutes. Afterward, transfer the eggs to a bowl filled with ice water to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Egg Whites:
Once the eggs are cool, peel them carefully. Slice each egg in half lengthwise and gently remove the yolks, placing them in a medium mixing bowl. Set the empty egg white halves aside on a serving platter.
3. Make the Filling:
With a fork, mash the egg yolks until they’re crumbled. To the yolks, add the softened cream cheese, mayo, shredded cheddar, diced jalapeño, chopped bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and chopped cilantro. Mix well until everything is smooth and creamy. Remember to season with salt and pepper to taste!
4. Fill the Egg Whites:
Now, you can spoon or pipe the creamy filling back into the egg white halves, making sure they’re generously filled.
5. Garnish and Chill:
For the finishing touch, garnish each deviled egg with a slice of fresh jalapeño, a few bacon bits, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, and some chopped cilantro. Place the filled eggs in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, your spicy jalapeño popper deviled eggs are ready to serve! They’ll be a hit at any gathering, adding that perfect blend of creaminess and heat!
Can I Use Egg Whites or Egg Substitute for This Recipe?
While the recipe is designed for whole eggs, if you prefer, you can use only egg whites to reduce cholesterol. However, you’ll need to find a suitable substitute for the richness that the yolks provide, like adding a bit more cream cheese or avocado.
How Do I Store Leftover Deviled Eggs?
Leftover deviled eggs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on top of the eggs before sealing the container to prevent them from drying out.
Can I Make These Deviled Eggs Vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the eggs with chickpeas to create a chickpea-based filling. Use vegan cream cheese and a vegan mayo alternative to keep the flavors creamy and delicious while making them plant-based.
How Spicy Are These Deviled Eggs?
These deviled eggs have a nice kick from the jalapeños, but you can adjust the spice level. If you want them milder, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño before adding, or reduce the amount used. For extra heat, consider adding a few dashes of hot sauce to the filling!
