I love how this deviled egg pasta salad brings together two classic comfort foods into one creamy, tangy, and satisfying dish. I find it perfect for potlucks, picnics, or even as a simple make-ahead lunch. The flavors remind me of traditional deviled eggs, but the pasta makes it more filling and shareable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy this recipe because it is easy to make, uses simple pantry ingredients, and always disappears quickly when I serve it. I like how the creamy dressing coats every bite, while the eggs add richness and protein. I also appreciate how flexible it is, since I can adjust the seasoning or add extras depending on what I have on hand.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
8 oz pasta (elbow, shells, or rotini)
6 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or pickle juice
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Optional: chopped green onions or celery
Directions
I start by cooking the pasta in well-salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Once it is tender, I drain it and rinse it briefly with cold water to stop the cooking, then set it aside.
I chop the hard-boiled eggs and place them in a large mixing bowl. I add the mayonnaise, mustard, paprika, vinegar or pickle juice, salt, and black pepper, then gently stir everything together until it becomes creamy and well combined.
I fold the cooled pasta into the egg mixture, making sure every piece is coated with the dressing. If I am adding green onions or celery, I mix them in at this stage. I taste and adjust the seasoning, then cover and chill the salad before serving.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 4 to 6 servings from this recipe.
Preparation time is around 15 minutes, cooking time is about 10 minutes, and chilling time is at least 1 hour. The total time comes to roughly 1 hour and 25 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes add chopped dill pickles or relish for extra tang. When I want a bit of crunch, I mix in finely diced celery or red onion. For a smoky flavor, I use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. I also like adding a spoonful of Greek yogurt to replace part of the mayonnaise for a lighter version.
Storage/Reheating
I store this pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I do not reheat it, since I prefer it served cold. If it thickens after sitting, I stir in a small spoonful of mayonnaise to refresh the texture.
FAQs
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
I often make it a day in advance, and I find the flavors actually improve after chilling overnight.
What pasta works best for this recipe?
I like elbow macaroni the most, but shells or rotini work well because they hold the dressing nicely.
Can I use Miracle Whip instead of mayonnaise?
I have tried it, and it works, though the flavor is sweeter and tangier than traditional mayonnaise.
How do I keep the eggs from getting rubbery?
I make sure not to overcook the eggs and always cool them quickly after boiling.
Is this recipe good for picnics?
I think it is great for picnics, as long as I keep it chilled in a cooler until serving.
Conclusion
I find this deviled egg pasta salad to be a simple yet comforting dish that always earns compliments. I like how it combines familiar flavors with an easy preparation, making it a reliable recipe I come back to again and again.
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad combines the creamy, tangy flavor of deviled eggs with tender pasta for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or make-ahead lunches.
Ingredients
8 oz pasta (elbow, shells, or rotini)
6 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or pickle juice
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Optional: chopped green onions or celery
Instructions
Cook the pasta in well-salted boiling water according to package directions. Drain and rinse briefly with cold water. Set aside.
Chop the hard-boiled eggs and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Add mayonnaise, mustard, paprika, vinegar or pickle juice, salt, and pepper to the eggs. Stir until creamy and well combined.
Fold the cooled pasta into the egg mixture, mixing gently to coat.
If using, stir in chopped green onions or celery.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
Use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
Add chopped pickles or relish for extra tang.
Replace part of the mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Best served chilled and fresh, but leftovers keep well.
Stir in a little extra mayo before serving if it thickens in the fridge.