Best Boiling Times For Eggs

How Long to Boil Eggs: Perfect Times for Soft or Hard Eggs

How long to boil eggs?

For soft-boiled, aim for 4-6 minutes; for hard-boiled, 8-12 minutes. This guide gives you exact times and tips for perfect eggs every time. How to boil soft eggs or perfectly boiled eggs?

Why Boil Eggs Right?

i. Perfect boiled eggs are quick, nutritious, and versatile—70% of home cooks mess up the timing, per surveys.

ii. Get it right for salads, snacks, or breakfast without green yolks or runny messes.

iii. Save Time: Boil in under 15 minutes.

iv. Healthy: 6g protein, 70 calories per egg.

v. Versatile: Use in ramen, salads, or deviled eggs.

1. Choose Your Egg Style

Timing depends on how you like your yolks—soft, jammy, or hard.

Soft-Boiled Eggs

I. Boil 4-5 minutes for runny yolks, ideal for toast.
II. Use 5-6 minutes for jammy yolks, great for ramen.
III. Shock in ice water to stop cooking and ease peeling.

Hard-Boiled Eggs

I. Boil 8-10 minutes for slightly creamy yolks.
II. Go 10-12 minutes for fully hard yolks, perfect for salads.
III. Cool in ice bath 5 minutes for clean peels.

Adjust for Factors (For Type of Eggs)

I. Add 1 minute for large eggs (vs. medium).
II. Increase 30 seconds at high altitude (>5,000 ft).
III. Use fresh eggs for better taste, older for easier peeling.

2. Boil Eggs Perfectly
Follow these steps for consistent results, no overcooking.

Prep the Pot

I. Place eggs in a single layer in a saucepan.
II. Cover with 1 inch of cold water to prevent cracking.
III. Add a pinch of salt to reduce shell sticking.

Boil and Time

I. Bring water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
II. Start timer once boiling: 4-12 minutes based on style.
III. Lower heat to a simmer to avoid bouncing eggs.

Cool and Peel

I. Transfer eggs to ice water for 5 minutes to stop cooking.
II. Tap gently and roll on counter to crack shell.
III. Peel under running water for smooth results.

Tips for The Perfect Egg

1. Use a timer app to nail exact boiling times.
2. Store boiled eggs in the fridge for up to 7 days.
3. Test one egg first to perfect your timing.

Try our Mac and Cheese Recipe for a hearty side (see here).

Boil Eggs Like a Pro

Ready to boil eggs perfectly?

Grab a pot, set a timer, and try six (6) minutes for jammy yolks. Share your results in the comments.

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