How To Make Perfect Hard Boiled Eggs

overhead hard boiled egg cut in half sprinkled with salt and pepper

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How To Make Perfect Hard Boiled Eggs

Follow this tried and true method to make perfect hard boiled eggs which result in tender, creamy eggs every time. And no green ring!

Prep Time3

Cook Time12

Total Time15

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Keyword: hard boiled eggs, how long to cook hard boiled eggs, how to cook hard boiled eggs

Servings: eggs

Ingredients

8 large cold eggs
cold water
ice

Instructions

This first step is optional, but I do find it helps when it comes time to peel them. Detach the membrane by very gently tapping the wider/rounded end with a spoon until you hear the snap.
Gently place the eggs in a single layer at the bottom of a medium pot. Fill with cold water to cover eggs by 1-2 inches. Heat the pot on high and bring the water to a rolling boil. Once it starts boiling, turn off the heat, remove the pan from the burner, cover, and let sit for 12 minutes (*see note)
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the eggs to a large bowl of ice water and let cool until just slightly warm, 3-4 minutes. (This will cool them quickly and prevent further cooking, plus make them easier to peel.)
When the eggs are cool to the touch, tap the larger end on the countertop and then roll gently so they’re crackled all over to loosen the shell. Holding the egg under cold running water, start peeling at the large end where the air pocket is.
Slice, dice, or enjoy whole.

Notes

*12 minutes is what I consider to be a perfect hard boiled egg, where the yolk is cooked through but still tender and creamy, but many people prefer 14 minutes where the yolk is more solid and a firmer white. For FAQs, helpful tips, storing information, and different cooking methods (air fryer and instant pot), please refer to the full article.

Nutrition