Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

How to Boil Eggs: Perfect Soft and Hard-Boiled Eggs Every Time Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 49 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This classic recipe guides you through the perfect method to boil eggs, whether you prefer soft-boiled or hard-boiled. Learn how to cook eggs to your desired doneness and peel them easily with a simple ice bath technique.


Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 12 large eggs
  • Water (enough to cover eggs by 1 inch)


Instructions

  1. Place Eggs in Pot: Place the eggs directly from the refrigerator into a large saucepan or pot in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
  2. Add Water: Fill the pot with enough cold water to cover the eggs by about 1 inch.
  3. Bring to Boil: Bring the pot of water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
  4. Remove from Heat and Cover: Once boiling, remove the pot from the heat and cover with a lid. Let the eggs cook in the hot water.
  5. Cook Time for Desired Doneness: For soft-boiled eggs, let them sit in the hot water for 6-8 minutes. For hard-boiled eggs, let them sit for 10-12 minutes.
  6. Prepare Ice Bath: Meanwhile, prepare an ice water bath by filling a large bowl with ice and cold water.
  7. Transfer Eggs to Ice Bath: Use a slotted spoon to remove the eggs from the hot water and immediately immerse them in the ice bath. Let them soak for at least 5-10 minutes to stop cooking and make peeling easier.
  8. Peel the Eggs: Once cooled, gently tap the rounded bottom of each egg on a hard surface, then roll it to create cracks all over. Peel the shell under cold running water for best results.

Notes

  • Using cold water and starting with refrigerated eggs helps prevent cracking during cooking.
  • The ice bath halts the cooking process and ensures easy peeling.
  • Adjust cooking times within the range given to achieve your preferred yolk consistency.
  • Peeling eggs under running water can help remove stubborn shell bits.