
Mar 28, 2023
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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 16 options to try.

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

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!
- Cayenne pepper– a sprinkle is all you need since it has a little more heat than paprika.
- Chili powder– has a similar color and flavor to paprika, but less heat.
- Cracked black pepper– adds a nice touch and peppery flavor; definitely add chopped chives or green onions for some more color.
- Aleppo pepper powder– closely resembles the flavor of paprika, if you happen to have this around, go ahead and put it to use!
- Chopped chives- add a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
- Chopped cilantro- makes an excellent garnish, especially for recipes like Fiesta Deviled Eggs.
- Diced green onions- similar to chives, green onions go with just about everything.
- Everything But the Bagel– you already know this stuff will taste amazing over a classic deviled egg! Grab the recipe below.
- Hot sauce– if you love heat, you can’t go wrong with your favorite hot sauce!
- 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.
- 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.
- Chopped kalamata olives– if you want to make these Greek Deviled Eggs, add some chopped olives and a sprinkle of feta cheese.
- Pico de gallo– fresh salsa on top of a deviled egg? Yes, please! Pair it with sliced black olives for even more flavor.
- Crumbled feta- adds a nice tangy flavor and can be paired with olives or fresh herbs.
- 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.
- 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.
Which of these Paprika substitutes will you try first?

16 Paprika Substitutes for Deviled Eggs
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
- 1-2 dashes Tabasco optional
- 1 tablespoon snipped fresh chives optional
- 3 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.
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