Dessert

Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs with Crispy Bacon, Chives, and Smoked Paprika Recipe

ByLuna Ryder February 13, 2026February 13, 2026

Introduction

These Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs are a festive twist on a classic appetizer, combining creamy yolks with the smoky flavor of beef bacon and a hint of smoked paprika. Perfect for holiday gatherings, they bring a delightful burst of flavor to your table.

A white plate holds several halves of hard-boiled eggs, each with smooth white egg white halves filled with a creamy, orange-yellow piped yolk mixture that has a slightly swirled texture. The tops of the yolk filling are dusted with reddish paprika powder. Some of the egg halves are decorated with small green herb leaves, and sprigs of fresh green herbs are scattered around the plate. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 large eggs
½ cup mayonnaise
1 ½ tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
¼ teaspoon salt
⅛ teaspoon black pepper
2 slices thick-cut beef bacon, crispy, crumbled
2 tablespoons chopped chives
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Optional: extra chives or smoked paprika for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Place 12 large eggs in a saucepan and cover with about 1 inch of cold water. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, then remove from heat. Cover and let the eggs sit in the hot water for exactly 12 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare a large bowl of ice water. Immediately transfer the eggs into the ice bath and let them chill for 10 to 15 minutes until completely cold.
Step 3: Gently tap and roll each egg to crack the shells, then peel them under cool running water to ensure smooth whites. Slice each peeled egg lengthwise and carefully scoop the yolks into a medium bowl, setting the egg whites aside.
Step 4: Mash the yolks thoroughly until smooth. Add ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 ½ tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ⅛ teaspoon black pepper to the mashed yolks.
Step 5: Fold in the crispy crumbled beef bacon, chopped chives, and smoked paprika gently. Mix until the filling is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 6: Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each hollowed egg white half with the yolk mixture, creating a neat mound. Garnish the tops with extra smoked paprika and remaining chopped chives for a festive look.
Step 7: Serve immediately, or if preparing ahead, assemble the eggs no more than 2 to 3 hours before serving and keep chilled until ready to enjoy.

Tips & Variations

For a milder flavor, swap Dijon mustard for yellow mustard or use less smoked paprika.
Try substituting crispy pancetta or vegetarian bacon for beef bacon to suit dietary preferences.
To add extra texture, sprinkle finely chopped celery or pickles into the yolk mixture.
If you prefer a smoother filling, pass the yolk mixture through a fine mesh sieve before filling the eggs.

Storage

Store any leftover deviled eggs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 days. Keep them chilled until serving and avoid leaving them out at room temperature for more than two hours. Reheat is not recommended; serve cold or at room temperature for best flavor.

How to Serve

The image shows several halves of hard-boiled eggs with smooth, white egg whites forming the base layer, each filled with a generous swirl of bright orange creamy yolk mixture as the second layer. The yolk filling has a textured, piped design standing tall in the center of each egg half. A light dusting of reddish paprika powder is sprinkled over the filling and the whites around it, adding subtle color contrast. Fresh green herbs, including small leaves and sprigs, are placed both on top of some yolk swirls and scattered around the eggs, providing a fresh, natural decorative touch. The eggs are arranged closely together on a white marble textured surface with soft natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I boil the eggs ahead of time?

Yes, you can hard boil and peel the eggs up to two days in advance. Store them in the refrigerator in a sealed container or covered with damp paper towels to keep them fresh before assembling the deviled eggs.

How do I make sure the egg yolks are smooth?

To achieve a smooth yolk filling, mash the yolks thoroughly with a fork or use a food processor. Passing the mixture through a fine sieve can also help create an extra creamy texture.