Deviled Egg Pasta Salad Recipe

Why You’ll Love Deviled Egg Pasta Salad Recipe

This recipe takes everything you love about deviled eggs and transforms it into a hearty, crowd-pleasing pasta salad. The creamy mayo, zesty Dijon mustard, and tangy pickle juice create a bold, well-balanced dressing that coats every bite of pasta.

It’s quick to prepare, uses simple pantry staples, and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining. The combination of tender pasta, chopped eggs, crisp red onion, and pickles delivers the perfect mix of creamy and crunchy textures.

Ingredients

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

• 8 ounces small pasta, like elbows or ditalini

• ¾ cup mayo

• 1 tablespoon pickle juice

• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard

• 6 hard boiled eggs, peeled and diced

• ½ cup red onion

• ⅓ cup chopped pickles

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon paprika, plus more for serving

• salt and pepper

• green onions, sliced, for serving

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook according to package directions until tender with a slight bite, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta completely.

2. Prepare the Base
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, mayo, pickle juice, and Dijon mustard. Stir until the pasta is well coated. Add the diced hard-boiled eggs, red onion, and chopped pickles. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Mix and Chill
   Gently toss everything together until evenly combined. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve to allow the flavors to blend.

4. Add Final Touches
   Before serving, sprinkle with additional paprika and top with sliced green onions for a fresh finish.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

For extra crunch, add diced celery or chopped bell peppers.
For a bit of heat, mix in a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Swap Greek yogurt for part of the mayo for a lighter version.
Add crumbled bacon for a smoky twist.
Use whole wheat pasta for a heartier texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover deviled egg pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as the dressing may settle. If it seems a little dry after chilling, add a small spoonful of mayo or a splash of pickle juice to refresh it.

This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s a great make-ahead dish. Prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook the pasta just until al dente and rinse it under cold water immediately after draining.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Small shapes like shells, rotini, or bowties work well because they hold the dressing nicely.

What’s the best way to boil eggs for this recipe?

Place eggs in a saucepan, cover with water, bring to a boil, then remove from heat and let sit covered for about 10–12 minutes before cooling in ice water.

Can I substitute sweet pickles for dill?

Yes, but it will change the flavor profile slightly by adding sweetness.

How long can this salad sit out at a picnic?

Because it contains mayo and eggs, it should not sit out longer than 2 hours at room temperature.

Can I freeze deviled egg pasta salad?

Freezing is not recommended, as the mayo-based dressing can separate and the texture will change.

How can I make it lighter?

Use light mayo or replace part of the mayo with plain Greek yogurt.

What can I serve with this pasta salad?

It pairs well with grilled chicken, burgers, sandwiches, or barbecue dishes.

Why is my pasta salad dry after refrigeration?

Pasta absorbs dressing as it sits. Stir in a little extra mayo or pickle juice before serving to restore creaminess.

Conclusion

Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is a creamy, tangy, and comforting dish that brings a fresh twist to a classic favorite. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it’s perfect for gatherings or simple family meals. Once you try it, it may just become your go-to pasta salad for every occasion.