Go Back
Homemade Perfect Hard Boiled Eggs: Directions, Tips, and More! photo

Perfect Hard Boiled Eggs: Directions, Tips, and More!

Simple method for firm, fully cooked hard boiled eggs using a steamer basket and an ice bath.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 13 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 6 eggs see note 1
  • water

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • Steamer basket
  • Large Bowl
  • Tongs or slotted spoon

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Fill a medium saucepan with about 1 inch of water (about 2 cups) and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat.
  2. Place the 6 eggs in a steamer basket in a single layer.
  3. When the water is boiling, lower the steamer basket with the eggs into the saucepan.
  4. Cover the saucepan, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook the eggs for 13 minutes.
  5. While the eggs cook, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice and cold water.
  6. When the 13 minutes are up, use tongs or a slotted spoon to transfer the eggs from the hot pan into the ice bath. Submerge them and cool for about 5 minutes.

Notes

Eggs:It’s a myth that all older eggs are easier to peel than fresh eggs, although sometimes that may happen. Adding eggs to a hot environmentfastwill definitely break the bond between the egg white and membrane, though, and that is the secret that makes hard-boiled eggs easier to peel.
Yield:This recipe makes 6 eggs but can easily be doubled or tripled.
Storage:Store cooked eggs unpeeled in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Make ahead:Unlike omelets or scrambled eggs, you can absolutely whip these up in advance. Boiled eggs are your best bet if you’re seeking a make-ahead egg recipe.