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This devilled egg recipe transforms a classic appetizer into an impressive, handheld slider that brings together the beloved flavors of a BLT sandwich. The double-smoked bacon adds a rich smokiness while the fresh herbs brighten up the traditional devilled egg filling for an elevated bite that's sure to impress at your next gathering.
I first created these for a holiday brunch when I wanted something more substantial than traditional devilled eggs. They disappeared in minutes and have since become my signature contribution to family gatherings.
Ingredients
- Fresh eggs: Use the freshest eggs possible for easier peeling after cooking
- Double smoked bacon: Provides a deeper flavor than regular bacon; look for thick-cut for best results
- Mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base; use good quality for best flavor
- Capers: Add bright briny pops; use nonpareil capers for their delicate size
- Fresh dill and chives: Provide color and herbaceous notes; always choose vibrant green herbs
- Grainy mustard: Introduces texture and subtle heat; Dijon works in a pinch
- Iceberg lettuce: Delivers essential crunch; wash and dry thoroughly before using
- Cocktail tomatoes: Offer juicy sweetness; select firm ripe ones for best texture
- Everything bagel seasoning: Creates a delightful finish with minimal effort
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Perfect Hard-Cooked Eggs:
- Place eggs in a single layer in a small pot and cover with cold water by about an inch. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, remove from heat immediately, cover the pot, and let stand exactly 9 minutes. Transfer eggs to an ice bath and let cool completely to stop the cooking process. This method ensures perfectly cooked yolks with no green ring.
- Prepare the Bacon:
- Cook the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until they reach your desired crispness, about 5-7 minutes. Turn occasionally to ensure even cooking. The bacon should be firm enough to hold its shape in the sliders without being too brittle. Drain on paper towels to remove excess grease.
- Make the Filling:
- Slice each peeled egg lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks into a medium bowl. Add mayonnaise, chopped capers, fresh herbs, and grainy mustard to the yolks. Mash everything together using a fork until smooth and creamy. For an extra smooth filling, you can press it through a fine mesh strainer or use a food processor.
- Assemble the Sliders:
- Fill each egg white half with a generous portion of the yolk mixture using a spoon or piping bag. Take 12 of the filled egg halves and top each with a piece of cooked bacon, folding or breaking as needed to fit. Add a small piece of lettuce and a slice of tomato. Complete each slider by placing the remaining egg halves on top.
- Final Touches:
- Secure each slider with a cocktail pick, pushing it gently through all layers. Just before serving, sprinkle the tops with additional fresh dill and everything bagel seasoning for extra flavor and visual appeal. Arrange on a serving platter with additional herbs for garnish.
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The capers are my secret ingredient in this recipe. I discovered their magic after running out of relish one day while making traditional devilled eggs. The briny pop they add creates such a wonderful contrast to the creamy filling that I never went back to the original version.
Make-Ahead Tips
The eggs can be hard-cooked up to three days in advance and kept refrigerated in their shells. The filling can also be prepared a day ahead and stored in a sealed container or piping bag in the refrigerator. For best results, assemble the sliders within a few hours of serving to maintain the crispness of the bacon and freshness of the vegetables.
Customization Options
These sliders welcome many variations to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne to the filling for heat. Replace the bacon with smoked salmon for a different flavor profile. Vegetarians can enjoy these with avocado slices instead of bacon. The lettuce can be swapped for microgreens or baby arugula for a peppery twist.
Serving Suggestions
These devilled egg sliders make an excellent addition to a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit and pastries. They also work beautifully as part of a cocktail party menu or game day spread. For a complete meal, serve with a light soup or salad. If transporting to an event, place them in a container with a tight lid and keep chilled until ready to serve.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I prevent eggs from cracking during boiling?
Place eggs in a pot of cold water and gradually heat to boiling. Avoid overcrowding the pot to minimize movement while cooking.
- → Can I make these egg sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed eggs and bacon in advance. Assemble the sliders just before serving to maintain the freshness of the lettuce and tomatoes.
- → What other toppings work well for these sliders?
You can experiment with pickled onions, shredded cheese, or even a dash of hot sauce for added flavor.
- → How should I store leftover sliders?
Store the sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best taste, enjoy them fresh.
- → Can I substitute bacon with another ingredient?
Absolutely! Thin slices of crispy prosciutto, turkey bacon, or even smoked tofu can be great alternatives.