Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful fusion of deviled eggs and pasta salad

• Make-ahead friendly, ideal for meal prepping

• Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or as a main dish

• Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 6 hard-boiled eggs

• 8 ounces ditalini, small penne, or elbow macaroni

• ¾ cup mayonnaise

• 1 ½ tablespoons Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon white vinegar or fresh lemon juice

• 1 clove garlic, finely minced or crushed to paste

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt, adjust to taste

• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons green onions

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions with a generous tablespoon of kosher salt in the water. Drain and rinse under cold water until cool.

2. While pasta cooks, peel and separate the hard-boiled eggs. Chop the whites and set aside.

3. Mash the yolks in a large bowl. Add mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar or lemon juice, garlic, salt, paprika, and cayenne. Whisk until smooth.

4. Add cooled pasta to the dressing and stir to coat. Fold in chopped egg whites, red onion, and green onions.

5. Garnish with green onions and a dash of paprika if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add diced celery or bell peppers for crunch

• Include jalapeños or hot sauce for heat

• Mix in fresh dill or parsley for herbal notes

• Add shredded cheddar or feta for a cheesy twist

Storage/Reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days

• Best served cold; let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving to enhance flavor

FAQs

What type of pasta works best for this salad?

Small pasta like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small penne works well to hold the dressing and balance texture.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, making it a day ahead helps the flavors develop and meld together.

How can I make this salad healthier?

Use Greek yogurt or a mix of light mayo and yogurt in place of full-fat mayonnaise.

Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

Yes, use vegan mayo and egg substitutes like tofu scramble or omit the eggs entirely.

Can I add other proteins to this salad?

Yes, grilled chicken, tuna, or chickpeas are great protein additions.

How long can this salad sit out at a picnic?

Keep chilled and consume within 2 hours if unrefrigerated to ensure safety.

Can I freeze this pasta salad?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of pasta and dressing will deteriorate.

What can I use instead of Dijon mustard?

Yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard can be substituted based on preference.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook pasta al dente and rinse with cold water immediately after cooking.

Can I add pickles to this salad?

Yes, chopped dill pickles or sweet relish can add a tangy crunch.

Conclusion

Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is a versatile and flavorful dish that brings together the creamy richness of deviled eggs with the satisfying texture of pasta. Whether you're hosting a barbecue, attending a potluck, or just looking for a unique and delicious side dish, this salad is sure to impress. With room for customization and make-ahead ease, it’s a must-try recipe for any occasion.