Perfect Hard-Boiled Eggs (Printable)

Flawlessly cooked eggs with tender whites and creamy yolks, ideal for snacks and salads.

# What You Need:

→ Eggs

01 - 6 large eggs

→ Water & Seasoning

02 - Cold water, enough to cover eggs by 1 inch
03 - 1 teaspoon salt (optional, helps prevent cracking)

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Place eggs in a single layer in a saucepan and add enough cold water to cover them by at least 1 inch.
02 - Add salt to the water to help prevent cracking and facilitate easier peeling.
03 - Set the pan over medium-high heat and bring the water to a rolling boil.
04 - Once boiling, immediately cover the pan with a lid and remove it from the heat source.
05 - Allow the eggs to sit, covered, for 10 to 12 minutes—10 minutes for slightly creamy yolks, 12 minutes for fully set yolks.
06 - While the eggs rest, fill a large bowl with ice water to cool the eggs after cooking.
07 - Using a slotted spoon, transfer the eggs to the ice water and cool for a minimum of 5 minutes.
08 - Gently crack and peel the eggs under running cold water to facilitate easy shell removal.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • They turn out perfectly every single time, no more guessing or disappointing gray-green rings
  • The whole process takes just 15 minutes from fridge to table, making them ideal for meal prep or quick snacks
  • Once you nail this technique, you'll understand why everyone asks for your secret
02 -
  • The timing is everything—those 10-12 minutes create the difference between creamy and firm yolks. I learned this by doing it wrong too many times, so trust the timer more than your instincts.
  • Older eggs are your friends here. Fresh eggs cling to their shells like they're attached with glue. I now buy eggs with intention and keep track of their age, which changed my entire relationship with this recipe.
03 -
  • If you're nervous about cracking, add a splash of vinegar to the water—it helps stabilize the proteins and gives you extra insurance against disasters
  • The ice bath is non-negotiable. This is where the real magic happens, so don't skip it or rush through it. Those 5 minutes change everything.
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