This Easy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad combines creamy deviled eggs and tender pasta, making it a tasty dish for parties or picnics. It’s quick to make and full of flavor!
You can whip this up in no time and enjoy it cold. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good excuse to eat eggs? They’re packed with protein, so you won’t feel guilty going back for seconds! 🥚🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This classic pasta shape holds the creamy dressings perfectly. You can swap it with fusilli, shell pasta, or penne if you’re in the mood for something different.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: Eggs give this dish its signature flavor. To save time, you can buy pre-cooked hard-boiled eggs at the store. If you’re vegan, try using mashed avocado or tofu for a different texture.
Mayonnaise: Traditional mayo creates that smooth, creamy texture. Consider using Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative or vegan mayo for a plant-based option.
Mustard: Yellow mustard adds a tangy kick. You can replace it with Dijon mustard for a punch or skip it altogether if you prefer a milder flavor.
Onions: Red onion provides crunch and a bit of sweetness. You can use green onions for a lighter taste or skip them if you aren’t a fan of raw onion.
How Do I Make the Perfect Deviled Egg Pasta Salad?
Creating a delicious Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is all about mixing the flavors well and ensuring the pasta isn’t overcooked. Here’s my simple method to nail this dish:
- Cook your elbow macaroni according to the package, but don’t overdo it—al dente is key! Rinse with cold water afterward to stop the cooking process.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, and seasonings. This is your delicious dressing, so make sure it’s well-mixed.
- Add the eggs and onions gently to avoid breaking up the eggs too much.
- Once everything’s combined, taste it! You want to adjust the seasoning to your liking.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least an hour. This helps the flavors deepen and meld together.
By following these tips, you’ll have a creamy, delicious salad that everyone will love! Enjoy!
Easy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni pasta
- 6 large hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (white and green parts separated)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Paprika, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 1 hour to chill in the fridge. In total, you’ll need around 1 hour and 15 minutes to make this scrumptious dish, perfect for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it down. Set it aside for later.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a big mixing bowl, let’s whip up the creamy dressing! Combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tsp yellow mustard, 1 tsp apple cider vinegar, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp onion powder. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper, then give it a good stir until everything is well mixed.
3. Add the Eggs and Onions:
Next, gently fold in the 6 chopped hard-boiled eggs, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, and the white parts of the sliced green onions. Be careful here! You want to combine everything without breaking up the eggs too much.
4. Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooled elbow macaroni to the bowl with the egg mixture. Use a spatula to fold the pasta into the dressing until everything is evenly coated. Take your time—this is where all those flavors come together!
5. Season to Taste:
Now, taste your pasta salad and see if it needs more salt or pepper. Adjust according to your preference!
6. Garnish and Chill:
Sprinkle the green parts of the green onions on top and give it a light dusting of paprika for that extra flair. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, give the salad one last stir and it’s ready to serve! Enjoy your creamy, tangy Easy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad at picnics, potlucks, or as a delightful side dish!
Bon appétit! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you like such as fusilli, penne, or even rotini. Just make sure to cook it al dente!
How Long Does This Pasta Salad Last in the Fridge?
This pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving, as the dressing may thicken slightly.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge overnight to allow the flavors to meld beautifully! It’s perfect for busy days.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for a plant-based alternative. You can also mix half mayo and half sour cream for added tang!
