How Long to Boil Eggs: How Long to Boil an Egg from Cold Water

There’s nothing better than a good deviled egg or egg salad sandwich, but many people don’t know how long it takes to boil eggs. Boiling times vary depending on the type of eggs you’re making! 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, there are a variety of options to choose from (when the yolk is totally firm and crumbles slightly).

For boiled eggs, how do you know what kind to make? Personal taste plays a role, but so does the dish you’re preparing. Try a soft-boiled or jammy egg as a topping for ramen noodles. When making egg salad or deviled eggs, it’s best to hard boil the eggs completely. In addition to layered garden salads, a warm spinach and bacon salad, or a traditional Cobb salad, we also enjoy hard-boiled eggs.

Because every second counts when you’re boiling eggs, use a timer, even if it’s on your phone. Also, keep a bowl of ice water nearby in case you need to cool down. Once you’ve boiled and drained your eggs, immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and allow them to cool.

Using eggs that have been in your refrigerator for at least a week is the best way to peel them quickly (for example, if you’re making deviled eggs or egg salad). Fresh eggs are more difficult to remove from their shells. Submerge the eggs in ice water for about 5 minutes after they’ve been boiled. Then, using a vegetable peeler and warm water, remove the skins one at a time (or in a bowl filled with water). The water will aid in separating the egg’s shell from its membrane.

What’s the secret to making perfectly boiled eggs?

Hard-boiled eggs can be made in a matter of minutes by following these simple instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat, then add the eggs.

2. Gently lower the eggs into the boiling water with a slotted spoon.

3. Cook for 10 minutes with the lid on and the heat reduced to a simmer.

4. Drain the eggs and run them under cold water or an ice bath until they are completely cooled.