When it comes to appetizers, few can rival the timeless appeal of deviled eggs. These bite - sized treats are a staple at parties, potlucks, and family gatherings. But what if we told you there's a way to take this classic appetizer to a whole new level? Enter the million - dollar deviled eggs, a recipe that features a secret ingredient in the filling to make them extra rich and creamy: butter.
Deviled eggs have a long and storied history. They date back to ancient Rome, where boiled eggs were seasoned with spicy sauces and served as a starter. Over the centuries, the recipe has evolved, but the basic concept remains the same: hard - boiled eggs, sliced in half, with the yolks removed and mixed into a flavorful filling before being piped back into the egg whites. However, the addition of butter in this modern twist is what truly sets these deviled eggs apart.
Let's start by gathering the ingredients. For the eggs, you'll need about a dozen large eggs. Fresh eggs are always best, as they are easier to peel. You'll also need unsalted butter, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, salt, pepper, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick. The butter is the star of the show here, and it should be at room temperature so that it can blend smoothly with the other ingredients.
First, it's time to hard - boil the eggs. Place the eggs in a single layer in a large saucepan and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, remove the pan from the heat, cover it, and let the eggs sit for 12 - 15 minutes. This method ensures that the eggs are perfectly cooked, with a firm white and a creamy yolk. After the time is up, immediately transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and make them easier to peel.
Once the eggs are cooled, gently peel them. This can be a bit tricky, but if you start at the wide end of the egg and roll it gently on a hard surface to crack the shell all over, it will come off more easily. After peeling, slice the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks, placing them in a medium - sized bowl. Set the egg whites aside on a serving platter.
Now, it's time to make the filling. Add about two tablespoons of softened butter to the bowl with the yolks. The butter will add a luxurious richness and a smooth texture to the filling. Mash the yolks and butter together with a fork until they are well - combined. Next, add two tablespoons of mayonnaise, one teaspoon of Dijon mustard, half a teaspoon of white vinegar, a quarter - teaspoon of salt, a quarter - teaspoon of black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Mix everything together until the filling is smooth and creamy. You can adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. If you like it spicier, add a little more cayenne; if you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount.
Once the filling is ready, transfer it to a piping bag or a plastic bag with the corner cut off. Pipe the filling into the egg white halves, filling them evenly. You can also use a spoon to carefully scoop the filling into the egg whites, but piping gives a more professional and aesthetically pleasing look.
Finally, sprinkle a little paprika over the top of the deviled eggs for color and a bit of extra flavor. The paprika adds a beautiful red hue that makes the eggs look even more appetizing. You can also garnish them with a small sprig of parsley or a slice of pickled jalapeno for an extra pop of color and flavor.
These butter - infused deviled eggs are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They can be served at any type of event, from a casual backyard barbecue to a formal dinner party. They are also a great make - ahead appetizer. You can prepare the eggs and the filling a day in advance and simply assemble them before serving. This makes them a convenient option for busy hosts.
In conclusion, the million - dollar deviled eggs with butter are a must - try recipe for anyone who loves appetizers. The addition of butter takes the classic deviled egg recipe to new heights, creating a rich, creamy, and flavorful treat that will have your guests coming back for more. So, the next time you're planning an event, don't forget to include these irresistible deviled eggs on the menu.
