Introduction
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines the familiar flavours of classic deviled eggs with the heartiness of pasta salad. Creamy, tangy, and perfectly balanced, this recipe brings together tender pasta, hard-boiled eggs, and a rich dressing that tastes just like the filling of a deviled egg. It is an excellent choice for potlucks, barbecues, holidays, or make-ahead lunches. I often prepare this salad when I want something dependable that everyone recognises and enjoys. The pasta makes it more filling than traditional deviled eggs, while the mustard and mayonnaise dressing delivers that unmistakable deviled egg flavour. Chilled and well-seasoned, this pasta salad is comforting, nostalgic, and always one of the first dishes to disappear from the table.
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Deviled Egg Pasta Salad: A Creamy, Classic Twist on a Picnic Favourite
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is a creamy, flavorful side dish that combines tender pasta, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and a classic deviled egg–style dressing with mustard and mayonnaise.
Ingredients
- 250 g elbow macaroni or small pasta
- 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
- 180 ml mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or pickle juice
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp sweet relish or finely chopped pickles
- 2 tbsp red onion, finely chopped
- Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and cool.
- Peel and chop the hard-boiled eggs.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar or pickle juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add cooked pasta, chopped eggs, relish, and red onion to the bowl.
- Gently stir until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Garnish with chives or parsley before serving if desired.
Notes
- Chilling enhances the flavor and texture.
- You can add celery for extra crunch.
- Sprinkle extra paprika on top for a classic deviled egg look.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is creamy, flavourful, and easy to prepare. It uses simple ingredients and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for gatherings. The combination of eggs and pasta makes it satisfying while still feeling fresh and balanced.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Pasta
Pasta forms the base of the salad. Short shapes such as elbow macaroni or shells work best for holding the creamy dressing.
Hard-Boiled Eggs
Hard-boiled eggs provide richness and protein, delivering the signature deviled egg flavour.
Mayonnaise
Mayonnaise creates the creamy foundation of the dressing.
Yellow Mustard
Yellow mustard adds tang and that classic deviled egg taste.
Dijon Mustard
Dijon mustard adds depth and a slightly sharper flavour.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar balances the richness with mild acidity.
Sugar
Sugar adds a subtle sweetness that rounds out the dressing.
Salt
Salt enhances and balances all the flavours.
Black Pepper
Black pepper adds gentle warmth and contrast.
Paprika
Paprika adds colour and mild smokiness, echoing traditional deviled eggs.
Celery
Celery adds crunch and freshness to the salad.
Green Onions
Green onions provide a mild onion flavour without overpowering the dish.
Directions
Cook the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water, then set aside.
Peel the hard-boiled eggs and separate the yolks from the whites. Chop the egg whites and set aside.
In a large bowl, mash the egg yolks until smooth. Add mayonnaise, yellow mustard, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix until creamy and well combined.
Add the cooked pasta, chopped egg whites, celery, and green onions to the bowl.
Gently fold everything together until evenly coated with the dressing.
Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow flavours to develop.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately six to eight people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with an additional chilling time of at least one hour.
Storage/reheating
Store deviled egg pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish is served cold and does not require reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is easy to customise. For extra richness, a small amount of sour cream can be added to the dressing. I have also prepared this recipe with chopped pickles or relish, which added a pleasant tang and crunch.
For added protein, cooked bacon pieces work exceptionally well. You can also substitute Greek yoghurt for part of the mayonnaise to lighten the dressing. If you prefer a spicier profile, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can be added. These variations allow flexibility while preserving the familiar deviled egg flavour.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This salad provides protein from eggs, carbohydrates from pasta, and fats from the dressing. Using lighter mayonnaise or whole wheat pasta can adjust nutritional balance. Portion size can be adapted to dietary preferences.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Cook Pasta Al Dente
Firm pasta holds its texture better after chilling.
Mash Yolks Smoothly
A smooth yolk base ensures a creamy, lump-free dressing.
Chill Before Serving
Chilling allows flavours to blend and improves texture.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better after chilling for a few hours.
What pasta works best?
Elbow macaroni or shells are ideal.
Can I use only one type of mustard?
Yes, though using both adds depth.
How do I prevent dryness?
Reserve a small amount of dressing to refresh before serving.
Can I add pickles or relish?
Yes, they add excellent tang and crunch.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavours are mild and familiar.
Can I make it lighter?
Yes, substitute part of the mayonnaise with yoghurt.
Does it travel well?
Yes, keep it chilled during transport.
Can I add bacon?
Yes, bacon pairs very well with deviled egg flavours.
How long does it last?
Up to three days refrigerated.
Conclusion
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is a creamy, nostalgic dish that combines two beloved classics into one satisfying recipe. With its rich dressing, tender pasta, and familiar deviled egg flavour, it is perfect for gatherings, meal prep, or casual meals. Easy to prepare and always popular, this salad is a dependable addition to any table.
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