5 Foolproof Methods for Making Perfect Hard-Boiled Eggs

Whether it’s destined for deviled egging, topping your breakfast toast, or serving as a snack on-the-go, the hard-boiled egg is a humble, yet hardworking, protein source every home cook should know how to make. There are a number of methods for preparing easily peeled, perfectly creamy-yolked hard-boiled eggs, and everybody’s got a favorite. Here are 5 of the most popular methods explained—follow the path that speaks to you, and you’re guaranteed hard-boiled success. 

1.  Traditional Simmer Method

Place eggs in a pot of cold water; bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer (less aggressive, smaller bubbles continuously reaching the surface) for 9 minutes (for slightly soft yolks) or 10 minutes (for perfect hard-boiled yolks). Immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath to stop the cooking; let rest for 2 minutes and peel.

2.  Boiling Method

Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully lower eggs into the water using a slotted spoon and return to a boil for 3 minutes. Immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath to stop the cooking; let rest for 2 minutes and peel.

WATCH: How to Make Hot Chicken Deviled Eggs

3. Steamer Method

Place a steamer basket over 1-2 inches of water in a saucepan. Bring water to a boil and carefully place eggs in basket. Cover the pan and steam eggs for 13 minutes. Immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath to stop the cooking; let rest for 2 minutes and peel.

4.  Instant Pot Method

Pour ¾ cup water into the bottom of your Instant Pot. Place rack into pot and put 6-10 eggs on rack.  Place cover on instant pot and close valve to “sealing”position.  Using the manual pressure setting on high, set the timer to 5 minutes.  Release the pressure, remove eggs from pot; shock in cold water and peel

*Test Kitchen Note: This method produced the easiest-to-peel eggs!

5.  Oven Method

Place 12 eggs in a 12-cup muffin tin and bake at 325° for 27 minutes. Immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath to stop the cooking; let rest for 2 minutes and peel.