Name: Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2½ cups elbow macaroni; 8 large hard-boiled eggs; 1½ cups mayonnaise; 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard; 6 whole baby dill pickles, chopped; 1 Tbsp pickle juice; 1½ tsp kosher salt; 1½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp paprika; 1½ tsp onion powder; ½ cup chopped celery; 1 Tbsp thinly sliced chives

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There’s something uniquely comforting about a dish that combines classic flavors in a fresh way, and that’s exactly what Deviled Egg Pasta Salad does. I remember the first time I stumbled upon this recipe at a summer picnic, where it instantly became a hit. The delectable combination of creamy mayonnaise and rich hard-boiled eggs blended with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni created a flavor profile that was both nostalgic and exciting. My friends and family couldn’t get enough of it!

As I filled my plate, I marveled at how this simple dish transformed the atmosphere. The vibrant colors from the chopped celery and dill pickles danced alongside the creamy pasta, inviting me to take another bite. It’s a recipe that brings people together, making it ideal for gatherings, barbecues, and picnics. I love preparing this dish in advance, letting the flavors meld together in the fridge, so it’s always ready when guests arrive.

What I adore most about Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a side dish or even as a light meal on its own. It’s the perfect balance of protein, carbs, and creamy goodness. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your preferences! Whether you’re hosting a summer party or simply looking to jazz up your lunch, this pasta salad is a winner every time.

So why not give it a try? You might just find it becomes a staple in your own recipe repertoire!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
325 kcal

Protein:
12g g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
20g g

Tools Used:
6-quart saucepot, Colander, Chef Knives, Cutting Board, Mixing Bowls

What You’ll Enjoy About This Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

Flavorful and Unique

One of the standout features of Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is its delightful flavor combination. The creaminess of mayonnaise paired with the richness of hard-boiled eggs offers a nostalgic taste that evokes childhood memories of family gatherings and picnics.

Easy to Prepare

This dish is incredibly simple to make, which is a major plus in my book. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking, you can whip up a batch in no time, making it an ideal option for busy days when you still want something comforting and satisfying.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is not just a side dish; it shines at potlucks, barbecues, and picnics. Its versatility means you can serve it as a light meal or a side that pairs with grilled meats, making it a staple for many occasions.

Make Ahead of Time

This salad can be prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the fridge. I love making it the night before a gathering, so it’s ready to serve when guests arrive. It only gets better as it sits!

Customizable Ingredients

One of the beauties of this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to play around with ingredients; you can add your favorite veggies or even a bit of spice with some hot sauce. The basic structure remains delicious, no matter how you tweak it.

Kid-Friendly

This pasta salad is a hit with kids and adults alike. The familiar flavors of hard-boiled eggs and mayonnaise make it approachable for little ones, encouraging them to enjoy their veggies!

Ingredients for Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

The ingredients in Deviled Egg Pasta Salad come together harmoniously to create a delightful dish. Each component plays a vital role in building flavor and texture. The elbow macaroni serves as a hearty base, while hard-boiled eggs provide protein and creaminess. The addition of mayonnaise and Dijon mustard creates a rich dressing, and the celery and dill pickles add crunch and tang. Together, these ingredients create a symphony of tastes and textures that makes this pasta salad irresistible.

2½ cups elbow macaroni: The base of the salad, elbow macaroni provides a hearty texture that makes the dish filling and satisfying.
8 large hard-boiled eggs: These are the star of the show, offering creaminess and protein that elevate the salad.
1½ cups mayonnaise: This creamy dressing binds the ingredients together, giving the salad its delightful richness.
2 Tbsp Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang that brightens up the overall flavor profile.
6 whole baby dill pickles, chopped: These provide a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor with each bite.
1 Tbsp pickle juice: Enhances the tanginess of the salad, complementing the pickles.
1½ tsp kosher salt: Essential for seasoning, bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.
1½ tsp garlic powder: Adds depth and warmth to the overall taste.
½ tsp paprika: Provides a hint of smokiness and a beautiful color to the salad.
1½ tsp onion powder: Enhances the savory element, giving richness to the flavor.
½ cup chopped celery: Contributes a refreshing crunch that balances the creaminess of the dressing.
1 Tbsp thinly sliced chives: A fresh garnish that adds color and a mild onion flavor.

Step by Step Guide for Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

Making Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is a simple yet rewarding process. I find joy in the little details, from boiling the pasta to mixing in the creamy dressing. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll have a delicious dish that’s sure to impress.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. This is crucial for cooking the elbow macaroni. Make sure the water is bubbling vigorously before you add the pasta to ensure it cooks evenly.
Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions for al dente pasta. Keep an eye on it; you want it to be tender but with a slight bite. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside to cool completely.
Cut the hard-boiled eggs in half and remove the yolks. Place the yolks in a large mixing bowl and set the egg whites aside. This is where the magic happens, so take your time and make sure to not waste any yolks!
Roughly chop the egg whites and set them aside. They’ll add texture to the salad, making each bite satisfying.
Mash the egg yolks with a fork until creamy. You want a smooth consistency that will blend well with the other ingredients.
Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, pickle juice, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika to the mashed yolks. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. This dressing is where all the flavor resides!
Now, it’s time to bring in the other ingredients. Add the chopped celery, chopped pickles, chopped egg whites, and cooled elbow macaroni to the mixing bowl. Stir gently to combine everything. You want each piece to be coated in the delicious dressing.
Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste. This step is important—don’t skip it! Adjusting the seasoning can truly elevate the flavor of your pasta salad.
Garnish with the chopped chives. This adds a lovely fresh touch, both visually and in flavor.
Store in the fridge until ready to serve. This dish is best when allowed to chill for at least an hour, letting the flavors meld beautifully together.

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Pasta: Always use a generous amount of salt in the boiling water to season the pasta. It enhances the flavor significantly.
Egg Preparation: If you’re unsure how to boil eggs perfectly, consider using an Instant Pot for foolproof results.
Texture Matters: Don’t overmix the salad; you want to keep the texture of the eggs and pickles intact for that delightful crunch.
Cool Completely: Allow the pasta to cool before mixing it with the dressing to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Making Adjustments

Exploring variations of Deviled Egg Pasta Salad can be a fun way to make the dish your own. Here are some tips to consider:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep.
Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing this salad as the texture of the pasta and eggs can change once thawed.
Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or even a fresh green salad.
Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices! Adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne can elevate the flavor.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, consider adding diced bell peppers or peas for extra color and nutrition.

Perfect Matches for Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

When it comes to serving Deviled Egg Pasta Salad, there are endless possibilities to complement this delightful dish. Here are some great options:

Grilled Chicken: The creamy texture of the salad pairs excellently with juicy grilled chicken, making for a satisfying meal.
Fresh Green Salad: Serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta salad.
Barbecue: This salad is a classic addition to any summer barbecue, perfectly complementing grilled meats and veggies.
Picnics and Potlucks: It’s an ideal dish for gatherings; make it ahead and watch it disappear at your next event!
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Seasonal Pairing: In the spring, serve this salad with fresh herbs and seasonal veggies for a refreshing twist.

FAQ

Absolutely! In fact, Deviled Egg Pasta Salad tastes even better when made a day ahead. Preparing it in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will be ready to serve when you are.

There are plenty of ways to customize Deviled Egg Pasta Salad to suit your taste! You can add ingredients like diced bell peppers, chopped green onions, or even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

Leftovers of Deviled Egg Pasta Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just make sure to give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may settle.

It’s not recommended to freeze Deviled Egg Pasta Salad. Freezing can alter the texture of the pasta and eggs, making it less enjoyable once thawed. It’s best served fresh or stored in the fridge.

Conclusion

Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. Its creamy texture, combined with crunchy elements and the timeless taste of hard-boiled eggs, makes it a favorite for many occasions. I encourage you to try this delightful recipe and see just how quickly it becomes a cherished part of your meal rotation. You won’t regret it!