Paprika Substitutes for Deviled Eggs (2024)

By Laura Fuentes on Updated

5 from 12 votes

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Use one of these ideas as a substitute for paprika on your Deviled Eggs this year! These are beautiful and delicious subs for your eggs.

You’ve found the ultimate list of paprika substitutes for deviled eggs!

Whether you are looking for a spice with similar color and flavor as paprika, or a completely different idea to top over your eggs, I’ve got 17 options to try.

Paprika Substitutes for Deviled Eggs (1)

Why Do You Put Paprika on Deviled Eggs

Traditional deviled eggs are finished off with a sprinkle of bright red paprika, it’s what makes the eggs “deviled”.

However, there are several reasons why one may want to skip this spice, and I’m here to assure you there are some great alternatives and garnishes you can use to make an incredible display of deviled eggs.

Related: How to Store Deviled Eggs Overnight

Paprika Substitutes for Deviled Eggs (2)

What to Use Instead of Paprika on Deviled Eggs

First, we will start with paprika alternatives and then branch out into some different ideas and ingredient combinations for your favorite appetizer!

  1. Cayenne pepper– a sprinkle is all you need since it has a little more heat than paprika.
  2. Chili powder– has a similar color and flavor to paprika, but less heat.
  3. Cracked black pepper– adds a nice touch and peppery flavor; definitely add chopped chives or green onions for some more color.
  4. Aleppo pepper powder– closely resembles the flavor of paprika, if you happen to have this around, go ahead and put it to use!
  5. Chopped chives-add a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
  6. Chopped cilantro-makes an excellent garnish, especially for recipes like Fiesta Deviled Eggs.
  7. Diced green onions-similar to chives, green onions go with just about everything.
  8. Everything But the Bagel– you already know this stuff will taste amazing over a classic deviled egg!Grab the recipe below.
  9. Hot sauce– if you love heat, you can’t go wrong with your favorite hot sauce!
  10. Sriracha– add a dash to each egg along with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of that Everything But The Bagel seasoning! Thank me later.
  11. Bacon bits– who can resist a deviled egg with homemade bacon bits? A sprinkle of blue cheese or shredded cheddar will bring things to the next level.
  12. Chopped kalamata olives– if you want to make these Greek Deviled Eggs, add some chopped olives and a sprinkle of feta cheese.
  13. Pico de gallofresh salsa on top of a deviled egg? Yes, please! Pair it with sliced black olives for even more flavor.
  14. Crumbled feta-adds a nice tangy flavor and can be paired with olives or fresh herbs.
  15. Crumbled blue cheese-hear me out, blue cheese, a dash of Buffalo sauce, chopped bacon bits, and just like that, you have Buffalo Deviled Eggs.
  16. Smoked salmon-a little fancy, but totally worth it! Add a sprinkle of Everything But the Bagel seasoning, and some chopped chives for extra oomph.
  17. Cajun Seasoning – This adds just the right amount of kick & spice to the table for cajun deviled eggs.

Which of these Paprika substitutes for Deviled Eggs will you try first?

16 Paprika Substitutes for Deviled Eggs

Paprika Substitutes for Deviled Eggs (3)

Servings: 12

Prep Time: 10 minutes mins

Cook Time: 13 minutes mins

Total Time: 23 minutes mins

Use one of these ideas as a substitute for paprika on your Deviled Eggs this year! These are beautiful and delicious subs for your eggs.

5 from 12 votes

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Ingredients

  • 12 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground pepper
  • 3 dashes Tabasco, optional
  • 2 tablespoon snipped fresh chives, optional
  • 6 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • Everything Bagel Seasoning

Instructions

  • Place eggs in a medium saucepan. Cover with cold water with 1-inch of water above the eggs. Bring water to a boil, turn off the heat, cover and let the eggs sit in the saucepan for 13 minutes. Drain, add some ice cubes to the eggs in the pan and fill them with cold water. Peel eggs one by one and refrigerate them to cool down.

  • Once hard-boiled eggs have fully cooled, halve lengthwise and carefully scoop the egg yolks into a bowl.

  • With a fork, mash the egg yolks. Add mustard, tabasco (if using) salt, pepper, and chives. Add the mayo and stir to combine all ingredients with a fork.

  • Fill each egg white half with about 1 to 2 teaspoons of the mixture and dust the tops with Everything Bagel Seasoning.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 deviled egg | Calories: 40kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 82mg | Sodium: 113mg | Potassium: 33mg | Fiber: 0.04g | Sugar: 0.2g | Vitamin A: 133IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 13mg | Iron: 0.4mg

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Paprika Substitutes for Deviled Eggs (2024)

FAQs

Paprika Substitutes for Deviled Eggs? ›

Tomato Powder

It'll deliver a punch of big tomato flavor, which would be a bit different than paprika's earthy red pepper notes, but just as tasty. Throw equal amounts of this in place of sweet paprika in a BBQ spice rub, sauces, or cooked or deviled eggs.

What is a good substitute for paprika in deviled eggs? ›

Tomato Powder

It'll deliver a punch of big tomato flavor, which would be a bit different than paprika's earthy red pepper notes, but just as tasty. Throw equal amounts of this in place of sweet paprika in a BBQ spice rub, sauces, or cooked or deviled eggs.

What can I use if I don't have paprika? ›

Our favorite smoky substitutions are:
  • Chipotle chili powder (For smoked sweet paprikas)
  • Cayenne pepper powder (For hot/sharp paprikas)
  • Ancho pepper powder (For sweet paprikas)
  • Guajillo Pepper powder (For hot/sharp paprikas)
  • Chili powder (For hot/sharp paprikas)

Why put paprika on deviled eggs? ›

Standard deviled eggs are undeniably good, but adding a touch of tomato paste and a generous pinch of smoked paprika makes them a bit more sophisticated. The flavor is gently sweet, forcefully spicy and perfectly smoky.

Why do people put paprika on eggs? ›

While paprika is most popular with the main spice in deviled eggs, paprika goes just as well with many other egg-based dishes. Although paprika is not an overly strong spice, it provides a good balance of mild, sweet peppery flavor to egg dishes.

What is the best spice for eggs? ›

Top Herbs and Spice for Seasoning Eggs
  • Salt.
  • Pepper.
  • Garlic.
  • Onion powder.
  • Chives.
  • Dill.
  • Parsley.
  • Cayenne Pepper.
Apr 6, 2023

Can I use Cajun seasoning instead of paprika? ›

If you're someone that doesn't like a mind blowing amount of heat then cajun seasoning could be the best paprika substitute for you. While it does have a nice little kick, it's not over the top and is comparable to chilli powder and not as hot as plain cayenne.

Can I substitute cumin for paprika? ›

Paprika, a mainstay in Hungarian dishes, can range in flavor from mild to pungent and hot. Known for its vibrant red color, paprika will also add a reddish tone to your dish. To substitute, begin by using half the amount of cumin called for in the recipe. Taste as you go, because a little goes a long way.

How do you imitate smoked paprika? ›

Store-bought chipotle powder is widely considered to be the best substitute for smoked paprika. Use the same amount of chipotle powder as the amount of smoked paprika that your recipe calls for.

Can I use cinnamon instead of paprika? ›

Use nutmeg, cinnamon or cloves instead of paprika in a deviled egg or potato salad recipe. Replace the paprika in chili with mace, mustard, garlic powder or cumin, or use ground ginger or black pepper instead of paprika in your favorite fried rice recipe.

Is it better to make deviled eggs day before or day of? ›

Prep deviled eggs too far in advance, and you'll have dried out filling and stinky boiled egg whites. For the best results, prep your deviled eggs up to two days in advance and keep the egg whites and filling separate until you're ready to serve. This prepping method also applies if you're not even leaving the house.

What is a thickening agent for deviled eggs? ›

Instant mashed potatoes (which doubles as a surprising thickener for soups) can save your deviled eggs. To pull this off, all you need to do is add the flakes directly to your filling in small doses, mixing well each time.

What seasoning does Gordon Ramsay use for eggs? ›

Salt and pepper: Only season at the end of cooking, not before. Gordon Ramsey says this prevents watery, gray eggs. Chives: Add lovely flavor and color.

Does paprika make eggs orange? ›

Coloration and nutritional value

Egg yolks enhanced with paprika added to feed have a richer, deeper gold or orange color. With marigold and alfalfa, producers get into rich yellow, “but they do not get into what they call the sunset section” of the yolk fan.

What to add to eggs to make them taste better? ›

11 things to add to eggs
  1. A teaspoon of chopped, fresh stronger herbs like oregano, tarragon, or thyme.
  2. 1 tablespoon chopped fresh milder herbs like parsley, chives, chervil, basil, or mint.
  3. Tabasco, Worcestershire, or other prepared sauce, to taste.
  4. A quarter cup grated or crumbled cheddar, goat, or other melting cheese.
Mar 23, 2020

What can I season eggs with without peppers? ›

Thyme. Cooks often use thyme to add flavor to a dish without being overpowering. Seasoning your eggs with a sprig or two of thyme will give them a sweeter, more pleasant taste. Fresh thyme will pack a bit more of a punch than dried thyme, but the fresh herb's flavor is still mild overall.

What does paprika do for a recipe? ›

Paprika is a mellow ingredient, bringing beautiful color and a hint of sweetness. You'll find it in everything from barbecue sauce, prepared rubs and marinades to Italian sausage, potato casseroles, cream sauces and egg dishes. We even love it sprinkled on mac and cheese!

Does paprika work on eggs? ›

Add the paprika according to taste. Choose smoked paprika if you like, and add a pinch of chilli powder or flakes if you like a little kick. Shell the eggs and cut each into 4.

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