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The Best Classic Creamy Egg Salad Recipe

A close-up, appetizing mound of creamy egg salad recipe mixed with chopped green onions on a white plate.

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This is the classic egg salad recipe you need for a creamy, flavorful result perfect for sandwiches, meal prep, or a quick lunch. We show you how to get the texture right every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped celery (optional, for crunch)
  • 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish (optional, for tang)

Instructions

  1. Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover them with cold water by about one inch. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
  2. Once boiling, immediately remove the pan from the heat, cover it, and let the eggs stand for exactly 12 minutes.
  3. Drain the hot water and immediately cover the eggs with ice water to stop the cooking process. Let them cool completely, about 10 minutes.
  4. Peel the cooled hard-boiled eggs. Chop the eggs coarsely or finely, depending on your preference for texture. For the best creamy egg salad, aim for a mix of textures.
  5. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, salt, and pepper.
  6. If using, fold in the chopped celery and sweet pickle relish.
  7. Mix gently until everything is just combined. Do not overmix, or the salad will become pasty.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Chill the egg salad for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Notes

  • For perfect hard-boiled eggs, the ice bath step is crucial for easy peeling.
  • If you prefer a tangier flavor, add a teaspoon of white vinegar or a splash of pickle juice to the mix.
  • This recipe is a great base for a protein packed lunch; serve it on lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

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