The Ultimate Creamy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad Recipe for Picnics & BBQs

Prepare to fall in love with the most incredibly delicious and easy-to-make deviled egg pasta salad! This isn’t just any side dish; it’s a culinary masterpiece that seamlessly blends the irresistible flavors of classic deviled eggs with the satisfying heartiness of a creamy pasta salad. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, a sunny picnic, or heading to a potluck, this recipe is guaranteed to be the star of the show. It’s so rich and fulfilling, you might even find yourself serving it as a delightful main course for dinner. Loaded with perfectly cooked hard-boiled eggs, a hint of sweet relish, and the tangy kick of creamy Dijon mustard, every bite is a burst of comforting flavor.

As the weather warms up, my craving for cold, creamy pasta salads becomes undeniable. There’s something uniquely refreshing about a chilled pasta dish, especially when paired with a frosty glass of classic lemonade. Imagine a perfect summer spread: fluffy Hawaiian sweet rolls, smoky oven-baked BBQ chicken, and a generous scoop of this incredible deviled egg pasta salad. It’s the kind of meal that brings smiles and creates lasting memories.

Why This Deviled Egg Pasta Salad Will Be Your New Favorite

What makes this specific deviled egg pasta salad stand out? It’s the harmonious balance of textures and tastes. We take the beloved creamy, savory, and slightly tangy essence of deviled eggs and combine it with tender pasta, creating a dish that’s both familiar and exciting. The addition of crisp red onions and vibrant scallions provides a delightful crunch, while the sweet relish cuts through the richness, adding a bright, zesty note. It’s a symphony of flavors that caters to every palate, making it an instant crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

This recipe is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile and easy to adapt. Whether you prefer a spicier kick or a more pronounced tang, our tips and variations will help you customize it to perfection. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead dish, meaning you can whip it up in advance and simply chill it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, making your event day stress-free.

Essential Ingredients for Your Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

Crafting the perfect deviled egg pasta salad starts with selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and some helpful tips for each:

Hard-Boiled Eggs: The star of the show! We recommend perfectly boiled eggs, cooked for 8-10 minutes to ensure firm but creamy yolks.
Elbow Macaroni: This classic short pasta shape is ideal for holding the creamy dressing. However, feel free to use any short pasta you have on hand, such as cavatappi, rotelle, rotini, or small shells. The key is to choose a pasta that can scoop up all that delicious creamy goodness.
Mayonnaise: The backbone of our creamy dressing. I prefer Hellmann’s for its rich flavor, but any high-quality mayo brand you love will work perfectly. It binds all the ingredients together, creating that luscious texture.
Red Onion: Finely diced red onion adds a sharp, pungent bite and a beautiful pop of color. Shallots or white onions are excellent fine substitutions if red onion isn’t available.
Scallions (Green Onions): These provide a milder onion flavor and a fresh, herbaceous note. Use both the white and green parts for maximum flavor and visual appeal.
Sweet Relish: Don’t skip this! Sweet relish is crucial for adding a wonderful balance of sweetness and tanginess that elevates the overall flavor profile of the salad.
Vinegar: A splash of vinegar (white, apple cider, or red wine) brightens the flavors and adds a slight acidity, mimicking the tang found in traditional deviled eggs.
Dijon Mustard: I personally love creamy grainy Dijon mustard for its sophisticated flavor and subtle texture. However, spicy brown mustard or even regular yellow mustard can be used for a different twist. Dijon adds depth and a classic deviled egg undertone.
Paprika: Not just for garnish! Paprika adds a mild, smoky sweetness and a beautiful reddish hue, enhancing both the flavor and appearance.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste. Always start with a little and adjust as needed.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

Follow these simple steps to create a show-stopping deviled egg pasta salad that will impress everyone:

Prepare the Eggs: Place 8 eggs in a large pot and cover them completely with cold water. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes for perfectly firm yolks.
Cool and Peel Eggs: Immediately after cooking, transfer the hot eggs to a bowl filled with ice-cold water. Let them sit for a few minutes to cool down, which helps prevent a green ring around the yolk and makes them easier to peel. Once cool, carefully peel the eggs.
Smash the Eggs: Place the peeled hard-boiled eggs in a medium bowl. Using a fork, smash the eggs until they reach your desired consistency – some prefer them finely minced, while others enjoy a chunkier texture. Set aside.
Cook the Pasta: While the eggs are cooking and cooling, prepare your elbow macaroni according to package directions. Cook until al dente, ensuring it’s firm but tender. Drain the pasta thoroughly and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly. This is a crucial step for a non-greasy pasta salad.
Make the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sweet relish, vinegar, finely diced red onions, chopped scallions, and paprika. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated and the dressing is smooth and creamy.
Combine and Season: Add the completely cooled and drained pasta to the large bowl with the dressing. Gently fold it in, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated. Then, fold in the smashed hard-boiled eggs. Mix carefully to combine without breaking up the eggs too much if you prefer a chunkier texture. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
Chill and Serve: For best results, cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or ideally longer, to allow the flavors to meld and develop. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of extra paprika or fresh chopped parsley/scallions, if desired. Enjoy with your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick!

Top Tips for the Perfect Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

Achieving a truly exceptional deviled egg pasta salad is easy with these expert tips:

Pasta Temperature is Key: Always ensure your cooked pasta is completely cold before mixing it with the dressing. Warm or hot pasta will absorb the dressing too quickly, leading to a greasy, dry, and less flavorful salad. Rinsing with cold water immediately after draining helps cool it down quickly.
Hydration is Essential: Pasta salads can sometimes dry out in the fridge. Before serving, give it a good stir. If it seems too thick or dry, add a splash of water (about 1-2 tablespoons) or a couple of extra tablespoons of mayonnaise to revive its creamy texture.
Spice It Up: If you love a bit of heat, don’t hesitate to add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or even some finely diced jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat) to the dressing.
Add Crunch and Freshness: For extra texture and freshness, consider adding finely diced celery or red bell peppers. These ingredients contribute a delightful crispness and vibrant color.
Vinegar Substitutions: No vinegar on hand? No problem! Lemon juice offers a bright, citrusy tang, while pickle juice from a jar of dill pickles can add a wonderfully briny and acidic flavor that complements the relish perfectly.
Egg Texture: To achieve a varied texture, finely chop about two of your hard-boiled eggs and leave the remaining eggs chunky when smashing them. This provides both fine pieces and larger, more substantial egg bits throughout the salad.
Seasoning in Layers: Taste and adjust your seasoning multiple times. Start with a baseline, then re-taste after the dressing is mixed, and again after the pasta and eggs are incorporated. Remember that flavors will deepen as the salad chills.

Variations and Creative Add-Ins

While the classic deviled egg pasta salad is perfect as is, don’t be afraid to get creative and customize it to your liking:

Bacon Bliss: Crispy crumbled bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy eggs.
Herbacious Twist: Fresh herbs like dill, chives, or parsley can brighten the flavor profile even further. Chop them finely and stir them in just before serving.
Mustard Variety: Experiment with different types of mustard. A touch of whole-grain mustard can add a pleasant texture and a more robust flavor.
Protein Boost: While eggs are a great protein source, you could also add cooked and shredded chicken or even canned tuna for a more substantial meal.
Vegetable Power: Beyond celery and bell peppers, consider adding frozen peas (thawed), shredded carrots, or even corn kernels for extra vitamins, color, and sweetness.

Serving Suggestions for Your Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

This versatile salad shines whether it’s the main attraction or a supporting role. Here are some ideas for how to serve it:

Classic BBQ Companion: Serve it alongside grilled burgers, hot dogs, ribs, or our delicious oven-baked BBQ chicken.
Picnic Perfection: Pack it in a cooler with sandwiches, fresh fruit, and homemade lemonade for an unforgettable outdoor meal.
Potluck Favorite: It’s always a hit at potlucks and family gatherings, easy to transport and universally loved.
Light Lunch/Dinner: Enjoy a generous serving on its own for a satisfying and cool meal, especially on warm days. It’s surprisingly filling!
Brunch Star: A unique and delightful addition to a brunch spread, alongside quiches, pastries, and fruit salads.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best qualities of this deviled egg pasta salad is that it’s an excellent make-ahead dish, and its flavors often improve with time as they meld in the refrigerator.

Refrigeration: Leftovers should be placed in an airtight container and refrigerated promptly. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3-4 days.
Serving Temperature: For the best flavor and texture, ensure the salad is thoroughly chilled before serving.
Do Not Freeze: Unfortunately, pasta salads with mayonnaise-based dressings do not freeze well. The mayonnaise can separate, and the pasta can become mushy upon thawing.
Make Ahead: For optimal flavor development, I highly recommend preparing this salad at least an hour or two before you plan to serve it. Even better, make it the night before! Just remember to give it a good stir and check its consistency before serving, adding a splash of water or mayo if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use store-bought hard-boiled eggs?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked hard-boiled eggs is a fantastic time-saver, especially if you’re in a hurry. Just make sure they’re fresh and of good quality.

What kind of pasta works best?

Elbow macaroni is traditional for its classic look and ability to hold the creamy dressing. However, small shells, rotini, or ditalini are also excellent choices. The key is a small, sturdy pasta shape that won’t get lost in the creamy dressing.

How can I make this salad healthier?

To lighten it up, you can use a light mayonnaise or a blend of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt. Increasing the amount of finely chopped vegetables like celery, carrots, or bell peppers will also add more nutrients and fiber without compromising flavor.

Can I prepare the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta and eggs fresh, cool them completely, and then mix everything together closer to serving time.

Why is it important for the pasta to be cold?

Cold pasta is crucial because it won’t absorb as much of the mayonnaise-based dressing as warm pasta would. If the pasta is warm, it can lead to a dry, greasy salad as the dressing separates or gets fully absorbed, leaving you with less creamy goodness.

More Delicious Macaroni Salad Recipes to Try

If you’re a fan of creamy pasta salads, then you’re in for a treat! Our collection of macaroni salad recipes offers something for everyone. If you enjoy a touch of tropical sweetness, our Hawaiian macaroni salad is a must-try – it’s sweet, delicious, and incredibly fresh-tasting. For those looking to add a hearty protein boost to their salad, our macaroni chicken salad is a fulfilling and flavorful option. And for seafood lovers, this macaroni tuna salad is another perennial favorite that’s perfect for any occasion.

Recipe Card

★★★★★ from 2 votes

Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

By
Julie Maestre

This deviled egg pasta salad is the ultimate side dish for any bbq, picnic, or potluck! You can even serve this as a main course for dinner, cause it’s that good. Loaded with hard-boiled eggs, sweet relish, and creamy dijon mustard.

Prep:
5 minutes

Cook:
10 minutes

Total:
15 minutes

Servings:
8 servings

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Ingredients

8 eggs, hard-boiled
1 lb elbow macaroni
1 cup mayo (such as Hellmann’s)
1 tbsp Dijon grainy mustard (or creamy Dijon)
1 tbsp sweet relish
1 tsp vinegar (white, apple cider, or lemon/pickle juice)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 scallions, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
1/2 tsp paprika, plus more for garnish

Instructions

In a large pot, cover the eggs with water and bring to a boil.
Cook for 8-10 minutes for firm yolks. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to cool.
Once cooled, peel the eggs.
Using a fork, smash the eggs until nice and chunky (or finely minced, if preferred) and set aside.
Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse thoroughly with cold water until completely chilled.
In a large bowl, combine the mayo, Dijon mustard, sweet relish, vinegar, salt, pepper, red onions, scallions, and paprika. Mix well.
Fold in the cooked, cooled pasta. Then, gently fold in the smashed eggs. Taste and adjust for seasoning as needed.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld. Enjoy with hot sauce, if desired.

Video

Notes

Make sure the pasta is completely cold. If you use hot or warm pasta it will result in greasy dry pasta salad.
Add a splash of water and a couple of tbsp of extra mayo before serving if the salad seems too dry or thick.
Enjoy with hot sauce for an added kick.
If you don’t have vinegar, use lemon juice or pickle juice for similar acidity.
Want to make it spicy? Add some cayenne pepper or finely diced jalapeños to the dressing.
For extra crunch, add some finely chopped celery and/or diced red bell peppers.
For varied texture, finely chop 2 eggs and leave the rest chunky when smashing.

Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Additional Info

Author:
Julie Maestre

Prep Time:
5 minutes

Cook Time:
10 minutes

Total Time:
15 minutes

Course:
Entree, Side Dish

Cuisine:
American

Servings:
8 servings

Calories:
357

Keywords:
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad, Egg Macaroni Salad, creamy pasta salad, picnic side dish

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We hope this detailed guide helps you create the most delightful deviled egg pasta salad for your next gathering or a simple, satisfying meal at home. Its creamy texture, savory depth, and hint of sweetness make it an undeniable crowd-pleaser that truly captures the essence of comforting homemade food. Don’t forget to share your creations and let us know how much you enjoyed it!