As the festive season approaches, I find myself reminiscing about the gatherings filled with laughter, delicious food, and family traditions. One dish that never fails to make an appearance at our Thanksgiving table is my beloved Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs. The vibrant, creamy filling can transform simple hard-boiled eggs into a show-stopping appetizer that tempts even the pickiest of eaters.
When I first experimented with this recipe, I was looking for a way to elevate the classic deviled egg into something truly special. A dash of smoked paprika brings an unexpected warmth, while the crunchy celery adds a delightful contrast to the silky yolk mixture. These deviled eggs are not only quick to whip up—taking just 27 minutes from start to finish—but they also offer a satisfying blend of flavors that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or just want to impress guests during a cozy get-together, these Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs will steal the show. Let’s dive into the easy steps to create this crowd-pleaser!
Why You'll Love This Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs
- These Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs are incredibly easy to prepare, taking just 27 minutes from start to finish, making them a perfect time-saving appetizer.
- Each bite bursts with flavor, thanks to the combination of creamy yolks and a hint of smoked paprika that elevates the classic recipe.
- Their vibrant appearance and elegant presentation make them an irresistible addition to your holiday table, catching the eye of every guest.
- Plus, their versatility allows you to customize them with different spices or toppings, ensuring they can fit any gathering or taste preference.
Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs Ingredients
Dive into the delicious details of these Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs!
For the Egg Filling
• 6 large eggs – the foundation of our creamy filling that everyone loves.
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise – adds richness and smoothness to the yolk mixture.
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard – brings a zesty kick that elevates the flavors.
• 1/4 cup chopped celery – provides a delightful crunch and freshness.
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions – adds a hint of mild onion flavor for balance.
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika – infuses a warm, smoky taste that makes these deviled eggs special.
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
For the Garnish
• Additional paprika – a sprinkle on top for a pop of color and flavor that entices!

How to Make Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs
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Boil Eggs: Start by placing your large eggs in a pot of water. Bring them to a boil and cook for 12 minutes. Once done, transfer them to a bowl of ice water to cool.
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Peel and Slice: Once the eggs are cool, gently peel them and slice each egg in half lengthwise. Carefully pop out the yolks into a mixing bowl.
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Mash Yolk Mixture: Mash the yolks with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped celery, green onions, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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Fill Egg Whites: Spoon the creamy yolk mixture back into the egg white halves, or use a piping bag for a fancier touch—whatever suits your style!
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Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle a dusting of smoked paprika on top for presentation. Serve the deviled eggs chilled or at room temperature, ready for your guests to enjoy!
Optional: For added flair, top with fresh herbs like dill or chives!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save precious time during the bustling holiday season! You can boil and peel the eggs up to 3 days in advance; simply store the egg whites in an airtight container and refrigerate them. Prepare the creamy yolk filling a day before serving—just mash together the yolks, mayonnaise, mustard, celery, green onions, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper and refrigerate to keep flavors fresh. When you’re ready to serve, fill the egg whites with the yolk mixture and garnish with paprika for that final touch. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, homemade Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs without the last-minute rush!
Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs Variations
Get ready to put your personal touch on these delightful deviled eggs!
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Avocado Twist: Replace half the mayonnaise with mashed avocado for a creamy, healthy alternative loaded with flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a dash of sriracha or diced jalapeños for a zesty heat that adds an exciting twist to classic flavors.
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Herb-Infused: Stir in fresh herbs like dill or chives into the yolk mixture, enhancing freshness and giving your deviled eggs an aromatic boost.
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Bacon Lovers: Crumble crispy bacon into the filling or sprinkle on top to introduce a savory crunch that everyone will adore.
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Smoky Flavor: Try using chipotle mayo instead of regular mayonnaise to infuse a deep, rich smokiness into your filling.
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Sweet & Savory: Add a touch of sweet relish or finely diced pickles to the yolk mixture for a delightful contrast against the creamy base.
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Cheesy Delight: Incorporate a bit of crumbled feta or shredded cheddar into the yolk mixture for added depth and a cheesy finish.
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Elevated Presentation: Use a piping bag to create beautiful swirls of filling, topping with caviar or microgreens for an upscale touch that dazzles at any gathering.
What to Serve with Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs?
Create a beautiful and inviting meal that delights the senses and brings everyone together around the table.
- Crispy Bacon: Adds a savory crunch that complements the creamy yolk filling, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the eggs.
- Stuffing Bites: Miniature servings of stuffing can evoke the warmth of the season, pairing nicely with the deviled eggs.
- Roasted Vegetable Platter: Colorful roasted vegetables offer a delightful array of textures and flavors that balance the meal.
- Fruit Chutney: A sweet and tangy chutney can elevate the eggs and offer a burst of freshness between bites.
- White Wine Spritzer: This light and refreshing drink can cleanse the palate, making it perfect for savoring the rich deviled eggs.
- Pumpkin Pie: A slice of this classic dessert rounds out the meal with warm spices and sweetness that guests will treasure.
- Cheese Board: An assortment of cheeses and crackers allows for creative nibbling, adding layers to the overall dining experience.
- Spiced Cranberry Sauce: Its tartness provides a lovely contrast to the creamy deviled eggs, enhancing your Thanksgiving spread.
How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs
Fridge: Store unfilled deviled egg whites and yolk mixture separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Once filled, they can last for about 3 days.
Freezer: It’s best not to freeze Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs, as eggs can develop an undesirable texture once thawed.
Reheating: If serving chilled, simply pull the eggs from the fridge before serving. If they’re at room temperature, enjoy them as is!
Serving Tip: For maximum freshness and flavor, prepare your Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs close to your event!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs, be sure to place the eggs in cold water before bringing it to a boil to prevent them from cracking.
- A common mistake is overcooking the eggs, which can lead to a greenish ring around the yolk, so aim for exactly 12 minutes of boiling.
- For a lighter filling, consider using Greek yogurt in place of part of the mayonnaise for a tangy flavor.
- Lastly, chilling the eggs for at least 30 minutes after filling allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures they are served at the perfect temperature.
Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my eggs are fresh enough for deviled eggs?
Absolutely! To check for freshness, you can do the water test. Fill a bowl with water and gently place the egg in it. If it sinks to the bottom and lies flat, it’s fresh. If it stands upright or floats, it’s best to discard it!
How should I store leftover Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs?
Very! Store your filled Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have extra yolk mixture or unfilled egg whites, keep these separately in sealed containers for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness.
Can I freeze Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs?
Not recommended! Freezing deviled eggs isn’t ideal since the creamy filling can change texture and become watery or rubbery when thawed. It’s best to enjoy them fresh for the best flavor and texture.
What can I do if my yolk mixture is too thick?
No worries! If your yolk mixture feels too thick, simply add a teaspoon of mayonnaise or a splash of milk, mixing until smooth. This will help create that perfect creamy consistency for your filling.
Do Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs contain common allergens?
Yes. This recipe contains eggs and mayonnaise, which may be problematic for those with egg allergies. For a different take, consider using chickpeas mashed with tahini or avocado as a filling for a vegan version—both are delicious alternatives!

Equipment
- Pot
- mixing bowl
- spoon
Ingredients
For the Egg Filling
- 6 large eggs the foundation of our creamy filling that everyone loves.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise adds richness and smoothness to the yolk mixture.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard brings a zesty kick that elevates the flavors.
- 1/4 cup chopped celery provides a delightful crunch and freshness.
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions adds a hint of mild onion flavor for balance.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika infuses a warm, smoky taste that makes these deviled eggs special.
- Salt and pepper to taste, essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
For the Garnish
- Additional paprika a sprinkle on top for a pop of color and flavor that entices!
Instructions
How to Make Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs
- Boil Eggs: Start by placing your large eggs in a pot of water. Bring them to a boil and cook for 12 minutes. Once done, transfer them to a bowl of ice water to cool.
- Peel and Slice: Once the eggs are cool, gently peel them and slice each egg in half lengthwise. Carefully pop out the yolks into a mixing bowl.
- Mash Yolk Mixture: Mash the yolks with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped celery, green onions, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Fill Egg Whites: Spoon the creamy yolk mixture back into the egg white halves, or use a piping bag for a fancier touch—whatever suits your style!
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle a dusting of smoked paprika on top for presentation. Serve the deviled eggs chilled or at room temperature, ready for your guests to enjoy!




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