How to Make Hard Boiled Eggs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hard boiled eggs are a simple, nutritious, and versatile staple that can be enjoyed on their own, sliced into salads, or turned into deviled eggs. With the right method, you’ll get perfectly cooked eggs every time—no gray rings, no rubbery texture, just tender whites and creamy yolks.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

eggswaterice (for ice bath)

directions

Place eggs in a single layer in a saucepan or pot.

Add enough cold water to the pot to cover the eggs by about 1 inch.

Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring to a rolling boil.

Once boiling, cover the pot with a lid, turn off the heat, and let the eggs sit for 9-12 minutes depending on desired doneness (9 for slightly softer centers, 12 for fully hard yolks).

Prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with water and ice.

After the resting time, transfer the eggs immediately to the ice bath.

Let the eggs cool in the ice bath for at least 5 minutes to stop cooking and make peeling easier.

Gently tap and roll the eggs to crack the shells, then peel under running water.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 hard boiled eggs.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 10-12 minutesCooling time: 5-10 minutesTotal time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

Add a splash of vinegar to the boiling water to help with peeling.

Try steaming the eggs for 13 minutes for a different method with similar results.

Use older eggs (7-10 days) for easier peeling compared to fresh ones.

Sprinkle with salt and pepper or a dash of paprika for flavor.

storage/reheating

Store peeled or unpeeled hard boiled eggs in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.*Do not freeze hard boiled eggs, as the texture becomes rubbery.*To warm slightly, let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes or briefly soak in warm water.

FAQs

How can I tell if my eggs are still good?

Place them in a bowl of water. If they sink and lay flat, they’re fresh. If they stand up or float, it’s time to toss them.

Why are my yolks gray?

A gray ring indicates overcooking. Use the timing guide to avoid this.

Can I boil more than 6 eggs at once?

Yes, just make sure they’re in a single layer and fully submerged.

Why are my eggs hard to peel?

Older eggs peel easier. Also, use an ice bath to help separate the membrane from the shell.

Can I use this method for soft boiled eggs?

Yes, reduce the sitting time to 6-7 minutes for jammy yolks.

Conclusion

Making perfect hard boiled eggs is easy with the right technique. Whether you’re meal prepping, making egg salad, or just need a quick protein boost, this foolproof method ensures reliable results every time. Add this classic skill to your kitchen toolkit and enjoy perfectly cooked eggs any day of the week.

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