This Easy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is a tasty twist on the classic deviled eggs. It’s creamy, packed with flavor, and perfect for picnics or potlucks!
With eggs, pasta, and a zesty dressing, it’s a dish that’s always a hit! I like to make it ahead of time so the flavors blend—it just gets better as it sits! 🥚🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using small pasta like ditalini or elbows for this salad. They’re easy to eat and hold the dressing well. If you prefer a gluten-free option, try using chickpea or lentil pasta instead. It’s just as tasty!
Eggs: Hard-boiled eggs are key for that ‘deviled’ flavor. You could use egg substitutes or tofu for a vegan version, but keep in mind the texture will change. I always boil extra eggs just in case someone wants more!
Mayonnaise: Traditional mayonnaise gives that creamy texture. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo. I sometimes add a splash of pickle juice for an extra zing that complements the salad.
Spices: Garlic and onion powder add a nice flavor punch. If you want a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking!
How Do You Make This Salad Creamy Without Overdoing It?
The trick to keeping it creamy but not too heavy is to mix your dressing gently. Here’s how:
- Start with room-temperature eggs and mayo, as they combine better.
- Mix the mayo, mustard, and spices in a separate bowl before adding the eggs. This way, you ensure even coverage without breaking the eggs too much.
- Let it chill! This allows all those flavors to blend beautifully without getting too thick.
Trust me, following these tips will give you a delicious and creamy pasta salad everyone will love!
Easy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz small pasta (such as ditalini or small elbows)
- 6 large hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp white vinegar or pickle juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This pasta salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 1 hour for chilling in the fridge. Total time is about 1 hour and 20 minutes, making it a quick and easy dish perfect for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once it’s done, drain it and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool completely.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, yellow mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and white vinegar or pickle juice. Stir everything together until it’s nice and creamy!
3. Combine Everything:
Add the cooled pasta and finely diced red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently stir everything together until the pasta and eggs are well coated with the creamy dressing.
4. Season to Taste:
Take a moment to taste your pasta salad. Add salt and pepper according to your preference. Little adjustments can really make a difference!
5. Garnish and Chill:
Transfer the pasta salad to a pretty serving bowl. Top it off with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for that extra touch. Now, cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let those delicious flavors meld together.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After the hour is up, your deviled egg pasta salad is ready to serve! Enjoy this delightful dish as a side at your next gathering or as a filling lunch. It’s creamy, satisfying, and sure to impress!
Bon appétit! 🥗
FAQ for Easy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While I recommend small pasta like ditalini or elbows, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, like shells or rotini. Just be sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.
How Do I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the hard-boiled eggs with diced avocado or tofu, and use vegan mayonnaise instead of regular mayonnaise. The mustard and spices will still provide great flavor!
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make this pasta salad a day in advance! Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to develop even more, making it extra tasty for serving!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a little stir before serving again to refresh the creamy texture!
