

How Long Does It Take to Boil Eggs?

Learn how to make perfect hard-boiled eggs every time!

deviled eggs on a plate
Con Poulos

We all love a good deviled egg or egg salad sandwich, but many people aren’t sure exactly how long it takes to boil eggs. The timing depends on what type of boiled eggs you want to make! The choices range from soft-boiled (when the yolk is slightly runny) to jammy (when the yolk is firmer, but still creamy and custard-like) to hard-boiled (when the yolk is totally firm and crumbles slightly).

How do you know what kind of boiled eggs to make? The answer depends partly on personal preference—but also on what dish you're making. If you're topping ramen noodles, try a soft-boiled or jammy egg. If you're making deviled eggs or egg salad, it's best to totally hard-boil your eggs. We also love hard-boiled eggs in layered garden salads, in a warm spinach and bacon salad, or on a traditional Cobb salad.

When you're boiling eggs, every minute counts, so set a timer—the one on your phone is fine. Also, always be ready with a bowl of ice water in the sink. Once you boil your eggs and drain them, you'll want to put them in cold water right away to stop the cooking and cool down the eggs.


Read on to find out how long to boil eggs—and then make your best eggs yet!

How do I make perfect hard-boiled eggs?

Follow these easy steps to make the perfect hard-boiled eggs:

  1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the eggs, then bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Using a slotted spoon, gently lower the eggs into the boiling water. Cover, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook 10 minutes.
  3. Drain the eggs and cool in a bowl of ice water or run under cold water until completely cooled.

    How do I make soft-boiled eggs?

    Stoneware Egg Holder
    The Pioneer Woman walmart.com

    Follow the directions above, but remove the eggs from the boiling water after 4 to 5 minutes.

    How do I make jammy eggs?

    These are an Instagram favorite! Follow the directions for hard-boiled eggs, but remove the eggs from the boiling water after 6 to 7 minutes.

    Is it possible to over boil my eggs?

    Yes! We recommend sticking to the above times to make sure your eggs aren't overcooked. Don't forget to set a timer.

    What's the best way to peel the eggs once they're boiled?

    If you want to peel your eggs right away (if you're making deviled eggs or egg salad, for example), the best method is to start with eggs that have been in your fridge for about a week. Fresh eggs don't let go of their shells as easily. Once the eggs have been boiled, submerge them in ice water for about 5 minutes. Then, one by one, peel them under room-temperature running water (or in a bowl filled with water). The water will help separate the shell from the membrane that attaches it to the egg.

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