From left: B.L.T., Avocado & Jalapeño, The Pig Skin, and Rajun’ Cajun’ Deviled Eggs / Photo by Sara Claro

Deviled eggs are like a little black dress, perfect for so many occasions. Classier than your average chips and dip, but just as affordable, portable, and satisfying. Here’s how to transform a basic recipe into a personal signature dish.

Whether you’re bringing these to a potluck, a cocktail party, or a tailgate, deviled eggs will be a big hit. Start by whipping up this wickedly delicious recipe, and get inspired by our favorite flavor-boosters.

Photo by Lee Harrelson

Basic Deviled Eggs
Makes: 2 dozen

1 dozen hard-cooked eggs, peeled
1/2 cup light mayonnaise
1 Tbsp. chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
2 Tbsp. sour cream
1 tsp. spicy brown mustard
1/8 tsp. salt

1. Slice eggs in half lengthwise, and carefully remove yolks, keeping egg whites intact.

2. Mash together yolks, mayonnaise, and next 4 ingredients until smooth using a fork. Spoon yolk mixture into egg white halves. Cover and chill 1 hour before serving.

Prepare recipe as directed, stirring one of the following delicious combos into yolk mixture in Step 2.

Don’t forget the stir-ins! These combinations deliver top-notch flavor and make a pretty presentation without much extra work.

B.L.T.: Reduce salt to a pinch, and add 1/4 cup finely chopped cooked bacon, 1 Tbsp. finely chopped green onion, and 1/2 tsp. hot sauce. Top with grape tomato slices, watercress leaves, and freshly ground pepper.

Avocado and Jalapeño: Add 1/4 cup finely chopped avocado, 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro, and 2 Tbsp. finely chopped pickled jalapeño pepper. Top with seeded fresh jalapeño pepper slices, crushed tortilla chips, and hot sauce.

The Pig Skin: Add 1 Tbsp. finely chopped green onion, 3 Tbsp. sweet pickle relish, and 1 tsp. Asian Sriracha hot chili sauce. Top with pickled okra slices and chopped pork crackling strips.

Rajun’ Cajun’: Omit salt. Add 2 Tbsp. finely chopped celery; 2 Tbsp. finely chopped sweet onion; 2 Tbsp. finely chopped green bell pepper; 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh chives; and 1/2 tsp. Cajun seasoning. Top with cooked diced andouille sausage and chopped fresh chives.

And if you’re looking to wolf down the competition (aka preparing a deviled egg tray for tailgating), check out our College Football Deviled Egg recipes.

What combination are you looking forward to try?

Photo by Jennifer Davick

See more of our Team-Inspired Tailgating Dishes, from Roll Tide Breakfast Rolls to Hokie Pride Sausage Dip!