200g7 oz small pasta (ditalini, macaroni, or penne) – Holds the dressing beautifully.
120g½ cup mayonnaise – Go full-fat for luscious creaminess.
2tspDijon mustard – Brings the sharp tang that defines deviled eggs.
1tbsplemon juice or vinegar – Brightens the overall flavor.
1garlic cloveminced – Adds depth without overpowering.
½tspsmoked paprika – A warmsmoky twist.
A pinch of cayenne pepper – Optionalbut adds a subtle kick.
¼red onionfinely chopped – Crunch and contrast.
2green onionschopped – Freshness in every bite.
2slicesbaconoptional, cooked and crumbled – Adds savory crunch.
Salt to taste – Brings all the flavors together.
Instructions
Boil the Pasta
Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Rinse under cold water to cool and stop cooking.
Prep the Eggs
Peel hard-boiled eggs. Slice in half, separate yolks and whites. Mash yolks through a mesh strainer into a large mixing bowl. Chop egg whites finely and set aside.
Mix the Dressing
To the mashed yolks, add mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, cayenne, and salt. Whisk until ultra smooth.
Combine
Add cooled pasta into the dressing bowl. Gently fold until well coated. Add chopped whites, red onions, green onions, and bacon. Fold gently again.
Garnish and Chill
Top with green onion slices and a dusting of paprika. Serve cold or after a 1-hour chill in the fridge.
Notes
Extra creamy texture: Push yolks through a sieve—this is the magic trick.Use chilled pasta: Never mix warm pasta with mayo-based dressing.Use your best mayo: It’s the core of your flavor here.Go bold: Add chopped pickles or dill if you’re feeling fancy.