Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is a creamy and tangy dish that combines the flavors of deviled eggs with tender pasta, making it the perfect side for barbecues, picnics, or family gatherings. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s loaded with hard-boiled eggs, a creamy dressing, and a touch of seasoning for that classic deviled egg taste. If you love deviled eggs, you’ll definitely enjoy this easy pasta salad.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or small shell pasta
- 6 large eggs (hard-boiled, peeled, and chopped)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sweet relish
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni or small shell pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Eggs
- While the pasta is cooking, peel and chop the hard-boiled eggs.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, sweet relish, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- Add the cooked pasta, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and finely chopped red onion to the dressing. Stir gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld together.
- Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh chives and a sprinkle of smoked paprika, if desired. Serve chilled.
Cooking Notes
- Pasta: Any small pasta shape works well for this salad, such as elbows, shells, or bowties. Make sure to rinse the pasta under cold water to prevent it from sticking together.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs: For perfect hard-boiled eggs, place the eggs in a pot of cold water, bring to a boil, then cover and let sit for 10-12 minutes. Transfer to an ice bath to cool before peeling.
- Dressing: If the salad seems too thick after chilling, add a tablespoon of milk or more mayonnaise to loosen the consistency.
Variations
Bacon Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
- Add 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon to the salad for extra flavor and a crispy texture.
Spicy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.
Pickle Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
- Add 1/4 cup of chopped dill pickles or pickle relish for an extra tangy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this pasta salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, it tastes even better when the flavors have time to meld. Just give it a good stir before serving.
How Long Does Deviled Egg Pasta Salad Last?
Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Stir before serving, and adjust the consistency with a little extra mayonnaise if needed.
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream if you prefer a lighter option. It will add a slight tang to the dressing.
What Should I Serve with This Pasta Salad?
This pasta salad pairs well with grilled meats, burgers, sandwiches, or as a part of a potluck spread. It’s a versatile side dish that complements many main courses.
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is a creamy, tangy, and easy-to-make side dish that combines the best of deviled eggs and pasta salad. It’s perfect for any gathering, picnic, or barbecue, and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Customize it with your favorite additions and enjoy the classic flavors in a new form that everyone will love.
Enjoy creating this delicious twist on a classic, and share it with family and friends for a delightful meal addition!