Perfect Hard Boiled Eggs (Step by Step)

Making perfect hard boiled eggs is easy and the method below never fails!

Hard Boiled Eggs can be prepared ahead of time for healthy snacks, deviled eggs or to add to salads.

Boiling eggs isn’t really a science, but sometimes it can feel like it is! Below are my favorite tips for perfect hard boiled eggs, taking all of the guesswork out of the equation!

The Perfect Snack, Salad, or Side!

Boiled Eggs aren’t just great for Easter, we snack on them all year long! Sprinkle with salt and pepper (or everything bagel seasoning) for snacks, slice them to go on top of Avocado Toast.

This method means no more overcooked eggs (and no grey ring around the yolks) for perfect deviled eggs or egg salad sandwiches,!

How to Make Hard Boiled Eggs

1. Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water at least ½″ above the eggs.
2. Bring water to a rolling boil, cover, and remove from the heat.
3. Rest covered (off of the heat) per the recipe below.
4. Place in a large bowl of ice water for 5 minutes before peeling.

How Long to Boil Eggs

This boiled eggs recipe uses large eggs from the fridge, if using medium eggs or extra large eggs, cooking time may need to be adjusted. Room temperature eggs may need less time.

In this method, rather than hard boiling by simmering, we bring the water to a boil and then remove it from the heat. Cover with a lid and then start a timer. This makes bright yellow yolks, tender whites and helps avoid cracks.

• Allow the eggs to sit for 15-17 minutes (for large eggs) for hard-boiled eggs.
• Allow the eggs to sit for 8-10 minutes (for large eggs) for jammy yolks.
• Allow the eggs to sit for 6-8 minutes (for large eggs) for soft boiled.

How to Peel Hard Boiled Eggs

Now that you know how to make perfect hard boiled eggs, you also want to make sure they’re easy to peel.

• Older eggs peel better! There is a scientific reason for this, and it has to do with the pH level of fresh egg whites, compared to the way the pH level changes as the egg ages. In an eggshell, basically, the pH of egg whites reacts differently to the membrane of the egg, which plays a big role in peeling.
• Place the eggs in an ice bath and then gently tap the egg to crack the shell all around. Peel the egg under running cold water, allowing the water to slip between the egg white and the membrane of the shell, this will help release it.

If your eggs are fresh, try making them in an Instant Pot (pressure cooker) or an Air Fryer. I find fresh eggs peel easier with these methods.

Tips for Perfect Hard Boiled Eggs

Here are my favorite tips to make perfect hard boiled eggs, (taking all of the guesswork and kitchen hacks out of the equation).

• • This recipe is made using large eggs.  If using medium or extra large eggs, cooking time will vary by a minute or two.
  • Older eggs will peel better than fresh eggs
  • There is no need to add anything to your boiling water  (like vinegar or baking soda).
  • Prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice water. This helps stop the eggs from cooking and helps them to peel nicely.
  • Place in a single layer in the saucepan and fill to half an inch over the eggs for even cooking.
  • After the water comes to a rapid boil, remove the pan from the heat and allow it to rest covered. The heat from the water will gently cook the egg.

Storage

Hard boiled eggs will keep in the refrigerator in a sealed container for about a week. You can store them either before or after peeling.

Recipes Using Hard Boiled Eggs

Did you try making these Hard Boiled Eggs? Be sure to leave a rating and comment below!

Egg Lovers Rejoice: