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Perfectly Boiled Eggs Recipe (Foolproof Method!)

Stop Guessing: This Is How Long to Boil Eggs

Learn the foolproof method for perfectly boiled eggs that will take you back to cherished moments at the table. Get the timing just right for soft, medium, or hard-boiled eggs!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Eggs
  • Water

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Bowl for ice water

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Start by placing the eggs in a single layer in a saucepan. This ensures even cooking and prevents cracking.
  2. Step 2: Add enough water to cover the eggs by about an inch. Make sure they are fully submerged!
  3. Step 3: Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. You want it bubbling away before moving to the next step.
  4. Step 4: Once boiling, cover the saucepan with a lid and remove it from heat. This is the magic part!
  5. Step 5: Let the eggs sit in the hot water for the desired times depending on your desired doneness: Soft-boiled: 4-6 minutes, Medium-boiled: 7-9 minutes, Hard-boiled: 10-12 minutes.
  6. Step 6: After your desired time has passed, carefully drain the hot water. Be cautious, you don't want to burn yourself!
  7. Step 7: Transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This makes peeling easier, too!
  8. Step 8: Let the eggs cool in the ice water for about 5-10 minutes before peeling and serving. Enjoy!

Notes

Use eggs that are a few days old for easier peeling. Don't skip the ice water bath!