Introduction
You’ve found the perfect party snack that combines two beloved flavors into one irresistible bite. These deviled eggs get a serious upgrade from smoky bacon and the tangy, herby kick of ranch. They’re the appetizer that will disappear from your platter faster than you can make them.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes (for boiling & cooling eggs)
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 12 deviled egg halves
Ingredients
- 6 hard-boiled eggs (peeled)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 ½ teaspoons Original Ranch Seasoning Mix
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- a pinch of salt (only if needed)
- freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- a pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 2 to 3 slices crispy cooked bacon (crumbled)
Instructions
- Carefully slice the peeled hard-boiled eggs in half lengthwise. Gently pop the yolks into a medium mixing bowl and arrange the whites on a serving platter.
- To the bowl with yolks, add the mayonnaise, ranch seasoning mix, and yellow mustard. Mash and mix with a fork until completely smooth and creamy.
- Taste the yolk mixture and then season with a pinch of salt (if needed), black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Adjust to your preference.
- Spoon or pipe the yolk filling evenly into the cavities of the egg white halves.
- Garnish each deviled egg with the crumbled crispy bacon and a sprinkle of chopped fresh chives. Serve immediately or chill until ready.
Variations
- Piped Filling: For a polished look, spoon the yolk mixture into a zip-top bag, snip off a corner, and pipe it into the egg whites.
- Chive Swirl: Mix half of the chopped chives directly into the filling, then use the rest for garnish for layered flavor and color.
- Spicy Kick: Add a small dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the yolk mixture along with the optional cayenne.
- Appetizer Platter: Arrange the deviled eggs on a bed of shredded lettuce or kale for an easy, attractive presentation.
Tips for Success
- For easy-peel eggs, use eggs that are a week or two old and shock them in an ice bath immediately after boiling.
- For the smoothest filling, press the yolk mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or mix it with a hand mixer.
- To test if the bacon is crispy enough, it should crumble easily between your fingers without bending.
- Always taste the yolk mixture after adding the ranch seasoning before adding extra salt, as the mix contains salt.
Storage & Reheating
Store assembled deviled eggs in a single layer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The bacon garnish may soften slightly. Deviled eggs are served cold and should not be reheated.
FAQ
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. You can boil the eggs and make the filling 1 day in advance. Store them separately and assemble and garnish just before serving for the best texture.
What’s the best way to hard-boil eggs?
Place eggs in a single layer in a saucepan, cover with cold water by 1 inch. Bring to a full boil, cover, remove from heat, and let sit for 12 minutes. Immediately transfer to an ice bath.
My filling is too thick. What can I do?
Add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of mayonnaise at a time and mix until you reach your desired creamy consistency.
Can I use real bacon bits instead of fresh bacon?
While fresh, crispy bacon is recommended for optimal flavor and texture, real bacon bits (not imitation) can be used in a pinch.
Why is my ranch filling runny?
This can happen if the eggs are still warm when mixed. Ensure your boiled egg yolks are completely cooled before mashing with the other ingredients.
Do I really need to taste before adding salt?
Yes, this is crucial. Different brands of mayonnaise and ranch seasoning have varying salt levels, so you must taste to avoid over-salting.
