Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

A Creamy, Tangy Twist on a Classic Favorite

Deviled egg pasta salad is the perfect combination of two beloved dishes: creamy deviled eggs and comforting pasta salad. With a luscious, tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, mustard, and a hint of paprika, this salad delivers bold flavors in every bite. The soft pasta, tender eggs, and crisp vegetables create a satisfying texture that makes it a hit at picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for gatherings – Great for BBQs, potlucks, or meal prep.
• Creamy and flavorful – A rich and tangy dressing makes every bite delicious.
• Easy to customize – Add bacon, pickles, or extra spices to make it your own.
• Quick and simple – Uses pantry staples and takes minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or small shell pasta)
• 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon paprika (plus extra for garnish)
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup celery, finely chopped
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
• ¼ cup dill pickles, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Eggs

Place the eggs in a saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, turn off the heat, cover, and let sit for 10-12 minutes. Drain, cool in ice water, then peel and chop the eggs.

3. Make the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.

4. Assemble the Salad

Add the cooled pasta, chopped eggs, celery, red onion, and pickles (if using) to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.

5. Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of paprika.

Variations and Add-Ins

• Bacon Lover’s Version – Add crispy, crumbled bacon for extra crunch.
• Spicy Kick – Mix in a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
• Pickle Twist – Increase the pickles or add sweet relish for a tangy bite.
• Protein Boost – Stir in shredded chicken or diced ham.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as the dressing may settle.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the mayo-based dressing does not freeze well.
• Reheating: Best served cold, but can be brought to room temperature if preferred.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep my pasta from getting mushy?

Cook the pasta al dente and rinse it under cold water immediately after draining to stop the cooking process.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Shells, rotini, or bowtie pasta work great in this recipe.

Is it okay to make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! It actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours.

What’s the best way to peel hard-boiled eggs?

Place them in an ice bath for 5-10 minutes after boiling, then gently tap and roll them on a hard surface before peeling.

Can I make this healthier?

Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and opt for whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.

What can I serve with deviled egg pasta salad?

It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a potluck spread.

Can I add more vegetables?

Of course! Try adding bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch.

How do I make it more flavorful?

A splash of pickle juice or a squeeze of lemon can brighten the flavors.

Can I use store-bought hard-boiled eggs?

Yes, store-bought hard-boiled eggs save time and work just as well.

How do I prevent the salad from drying out?

If it seems dry after chilling, add a little more mayo or a splash of milk before serving.

Conclusion

Deviled egg pasta salad is a creamy, tangy, and satisfying dish that combines two classic favorites into one delicious bite. It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re bringing it to a summer picnic or preparing it for a simple family meal, this salad is sure to be a hit!

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