This Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is a tasty twist on a classic dish! Creamy dressing, soft pasta, and bits of hard-boiled eggs come together for a delightful combo that everyone will love.
Honestly, who doesn’t enjoy a dish that’s both simple and bursting with flavor? I could eat this as a meal or serve it at a picnic—perfect for any gathering! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is typically used, but feel free to swap it for any other pasta you like, such as rotini or farfalle. Just be sure to cook it until al dente for the best texture!
Eggs: Hard-boiled eggs are essential for that classic deviled egg flavor. If eggs are a concern for dietary needs, you can use tofu or a chickpea salad instead as a protein alternative.
Mayonnaise: This gives creaminess to the salad. If you prefer to keep it lighter, try Greek yogurt or vegan mayo for a great taste without the extra calories.
Red Onion: This adds a nice crunch and flavor. If red onion feels too strong, you could substitute with green onions for a milder taste.
Paprika: It gives color and a little smokiness. You could also use smoked paprika or even omit it if you prefer a simpler flavor.
How Do I Hard-Boil Eggs Without Overcooking?
Mastering hard-boiled eggs is key for this recipe. You want them perfectly cooked, not rubbery. Start by placing eggs in a saucepan and covering them with cold water. Then, bring it to a rapid boil.
- Once boiling, cover the saucepan and turn off the heat. Let the eggs sit in the hot water for about 12 minutes.
- Immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath to cool down fast—this prevents overcooking and makes peeling easier!
- When they’re cool, peel and chop them for the salad.
Taking these steps will get you perfectly cooked eggs every time!
How to Make Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Eggs:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of your choice)
- 4 large eggs
Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon paprika (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Add-Ins:
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes for preparation and cooking, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. In total, expect around 45 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a tasty side dish or lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool. We want it nice and cool before mixing it with the dressing!
2. Prepare the Eggs:
While the pasta is cooling, grab a saucepan and place the eggs inside. Cover them with cold water, and then bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, cover the pan with a lid and turn off the heat. Let the eggs sit in the hot water for about 12 minutes. After that, transfer the eggs to an ice bath (a bowl filled with ice water) to cool completely. This helps make peeling them easier!
3. Chop the Eggs:
Once the eggs are cool, peel them carefully and chop them into small pieces. Set them aside—they’ll add a creamy, delicious element to our salad!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and paprika. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This is where the magic starts to happen!
5. Combine Ingredients:
Add the cooled macaroni, chopped eggs, and chopped red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently stir everything together until well combined, being careful not to mash the eggs too much.
6. Chill and Garnish:
Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors blend beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of paprika. It’s time to enjoy your delicious Deviled Egg Pasta Salad!
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, penne, or even shells. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions for al dente texture similar to elbow macaroni!
How Can I Make This Salad Healthier?
If you’re looking to lighten this salad up, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangy flavor with fewer calories. You can also add chopped veggies like bell peppers, celery, or carrots for extra crunch and nutrients.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You might want to add a little extra mayo or yogurt before serving again to freshen it up, as the pasta tends to absorb the dressing over time.
Can I Prepare This Deviled Egg Pasta Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the salad up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to add the garnishes right before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.
