Zippy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad Recipe: A Crowd-Pleasing Classic

Summer gatherings spark excitement around this creamy deviled egg pasta salad that blends classic picnic flavors into one irresistible dish.

Memories of backyard barbecues dance through each carefully crafted bite.

Tangy mustard and silky mayonnaise create a delightful coating for tender pasta shells.

Chopped eggs scattered throughout bring a rich, luxurious texture that makes every forkful memorable.

Crisp celery and green onions add a fresh crunch that perfectly balances the creamy base.

Chilled and refreshing, this crowd-pleasing recipe promises to become your go-to potluck contribution.

Whip up this delectable salad and watch smiles spread across hungry faces.

Tips For Best Egg Pasta Salad Texture

• Rinse pasta with cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking, ensuring a perfect al dente texture for your salad.
• Gently chop hardboiled eggs to maintain their shape and prevent mushy texture in the pasta salad.
• Let the salad chill for at least an hour to allow ingredients to marinate and develop deeper, more complex flavors.
• Adjust cayenne and smoked paprika levels to match your personal heat preference or dietary needs.
• Swap bacon with vegetarian alternatives like crispy mushroom bits or sunflower seeds for a meat-free version.

Ways To Change Up Egg Pasta Salad Flavors

• Vegan Egg Swap: Replace hardboiled eggs with crumbled extra-firm tofu seasoned with black salt for eggy flavor, using vegan mayonnaise and plant-based bacon bits.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta made from chickpea, quinoa, or rice to accommodate wheat-sensitive diets.
• Greek-Inspired Version: Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, add diced cucumber, kalamata olives, and replace smoked paprika with dried oregano for Mediterranean flair.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Use spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice instead of pasta, reducing carbohydrate content while maintaining creamy texture and rich flavor profile.

Egg Pasta Salad Served For Lunches And More

• Party Platter Perfection: Arrange the pasta salad on a large, colorful platter and garnish with extra chopped green onions and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a stunning presentation.
• Picnic Power Move: Pack this salad in a sealed container for outdoor gatherings, potlucks, or summer barbecues as a crowd-pleasing side dish that stays delicious in warm weather.
• Protein Boost Option: Top individual servings with crispy bacon bits, crumbled feta cheese, or diced rotisserie chicken to transform this side dish into a more substantial main course meal.
• Quick Lunch Companion: Serve alongside grilled sandwiches, fresh green salads, or as a standalone lunch with some crusty bread for a satisfying midday meal that's packed with flavor.

Storing Egg Pasta Salad For The Week

• Transfer pasta salad to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep sealed tightly to prevent absorption of other food odors.
• Not recommended due to mayonnaise-based dressing, which can separate and become watery when thawed, compromising texture and taste.
• Gently stir the cold pasta salad to redistribute ingredients before serving. If desired, let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to take the chill off.
• Add a small splash of fresh mayonnaise or a drizzle of olive oil when serving to refresh the creamy texture and revive the flavors.

FAQs

• What gives this pasta salad its unique flavor?

The combination of dijon mustard, white vinegar, and smoked paprika creates a tangy and slightly smoky taste that sets this deviled egg pasta salad apart from traditional recipes.

• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this pasta salad actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and develop a more robust taste.

• Is this dish suitable for potlucks or picnics?

Absolutely! The recipe is easy to transport, keeps well in a cooler, and is a crowd-pleasing option that can be served cold, making it perfect for outdoor gatherings.

Deviled Egg Pasta Salad That’s Picnic-Ready

• Customize with Ease: Flexible ingredients like bacon or different herbs allow you to personalize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or what's in your pantry.
• Quick and Simple Preparation: With basic cooking skills, you can assemble this dish quickly, making it perfect for busy home cooks who want a delicious side without complicated techniques.
• Chill and Serve Convenience: Prepare ahead of time and let the flavors meld in the refrigerator, making it an ideal make-ahead option for potlucks, picnics, or weeknight dinners.

Everything Needed For A Tangy Egg Pasta Salad

• Pasta: A classic pasta shape that holds the creamy dressing well.
• Hard-Boiled Eggs: The star ingredient that gives the salad its deviled egg character.

• Mayonnaise: Creates a rich and creamy base for the salad dressing.
• Dijon Mustard, White Vinegar or Lemon Juice: Adds tangy flavor and brightness to the dressing.
• Minced Garlic: Provides a subtle, aromatic background flavor.

• Kosher Salt, Smoked Paprika, Cayenne Pepper: Enhance the overall flavor profile with depth and slight heat.
• Red Onion, Green Onions: Add crisp texture and sharp, fresh flavor to the pasta salad.
• Bacon: Optional ingredient that brings a smoky and savory element to the dish.

Steps For Creamy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

Step 1: Boil Pasta Perfectly

Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente.

Drain and cool the pasta under cold running water to stop the cooking process.

Shake off excess water and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare Hard-Boiled Eggs

Carefully peel the hard-boiled eggs and chop them into bite-sized pieces.

Make sure the eggs are cooled completely before chopping.

Step 3: Whip Up Creamy Dressing

• Mayonnaise
• Dijon mustard
• White vinegar
• Minced garlic
• Kosher salt
• Smoked paprika
• Cayenne pepper

Whisk until the dressing becomes smooth and well-integrated.

Step 4: Add Crunch and Flavor

• Diced red onion
• Sliced green onions
• Crispy bacon pieces (optional)

Stir to distribute ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Eggs

Gently fold the cooled pasta and chopped eggs into the dressed mixture.

Ensure every pasta piece gets coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Season and Taste

Adjust seasonings by adding extra salt, pepper, or spices as needed.

Mix thoroughly to blend flavors.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld.

Serve cold as a delightful side dish or light meal.

Deviled Egg Pasta Salad Recipe

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4.8 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Creamy deviled egg pasta salad brings classic picnic flavors together in one irresistible dish. Cold macaroni mixed with tangy mayo, mustard, and chopped eggs creates a crowd-pleasing summer classic you’ll crave at every potluck.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 6 hardboiled eggs
• 8 ounces (226 grams) ditalini, small penne, or elbow macaroni
• 3/4 cup (180 milliliters) mayonnaise

Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 1/2 tablespoons dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar, or fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Additional Ingredients:

• 1 clove garlic, finely minced or crushed to paste
• 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons green onions
• 1/4 cup (60 grams) cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)

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Instructions

1. Boil pasta in salted water at a rolling boil for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then immediately drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking process.
2. Carefully peel hardboiled eggs and dice into uniform, bite-sized pieces.
3. Create a creamy dressing by whisking together mayonnaise, dijon mustard, white vinegar, minced garlic, kosher salt, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper until smooth and well-integrated.
4. Incorporate finely chopped red onion, sliced green onions, and crispy bacon pieces into the prepared dressing.
5. Gently fold cooked pasta into the seasoned dressing, ensuring each pasta strand is evenly coated.
6. Add chopped eggs to the pasta mixture, stirring carefully to distribute ingredients without breaking egg pieces.
7. Taste and adjust seasonings, adding extra salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
8. Refrigerate the pasta salad for a minimum of 60 minutes to allow flavors to meld and develop, creating a more cohesive and delicious dish.

Notes

• Rinse pasta thoroughly to stop cooking and prevent sticking, ensuring a perfect al dente texture for your salad.
• Experiment with Greek yogurt or light mayo to create a healthier version that cuts calories without sacrificing creamy flavor.
• Toast bacon bits for extra crunch and intensify their smoky flavor, adding a delightful textural contrast to the soft pasta and eggs.
• Customize heat levels by adjusting cayenne pepper, allowing guests with different spice tolerances to enjoy the dish comfortably.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 338 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 13 g
• Cholesterol: 185 mg