Eggcellent Pasta Delight Deviled has been my go-to for backyard barbecues and potlucks ever since I first tasted it at my aunt’s summer gathering. The creamy texture, combined with the familiar, comforting taste of deviled eggs, made it an instant hit. I remember the warm evening air, the sizzle of the grill, and the way everyone crowded around the food table, all reaching for a scoop of this incredible pasta salad. It’s a dish that truly brings people together, and I’m so excited to share this easy deviled egg pasta salad with you. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Eggcellent Pasta Delight Deviled
This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for so many reasons! Here’s why it’s become my favorite:
- The flavor is absolutely incredible – a perfect balance of tangy, creamy, and savory.
- It’s surprisingly quick to make, perfect for those busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers.
- It’s a budget-friendly option that uses simple, accessible ingredients.
- This creamy deviled egg pasta salad is a hit with kids and adults alike.
- It’s a fantastic make-ahead dish, meaning less stress on the day of your event.
- The combination of textures, from tender pasta to crunchy celery, is delightful.
- This is a truly creamy deviled egg pasta salad that satisfies cravings.
- It’s a versatile side dish that pairs well with almost any main course.
Ingredients for Eggcellent Pasta Delight Deviled
Gathering your deviled egg pasta ingredients is the first step to culinary success! This recipe calls for simple, wholesome components that create a symphony of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni – cooked al dente and cooled completely, this forms the base of our salad.
- 6 hard-boiled eggs, chopped – the star that gives this dish its signature deviled egg flavor.
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise – for that essential creamy texture and rich taste.
- 1/4 cup sour cream – adds a delightful tang and extra creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon mustard – Dijon or yellow works, adding a zesty kick.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – brightens all the flavors with its acidity.
- 1 teaspoon sugar – balances the tanginess for a perfect sweet and savory profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika – for a hint of warmth and color.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – enhances all the other flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – adds a subtle bite.
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped – provides a satisfying crunch.
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced – offers a fresh, mild onion flavor.
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish (optional) – for an extra pop of sweetness and tang if you love it!
How to Make Eggcellent Pasta Delight Deviled
Making this delightful pasta salad is a breeze, and the results are incredibly rewarding. The aroma of the dressing coming together is just the start of the deliciousness!
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, cook the 8 ounces elbow macaroni in a large pot of generously salted boiling water according to package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. You want it tender but with a slight bite.
- Step 2: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it thoroughly and rinse it under cool water. This stops the cooking and prevents the pasta from clumping together. Let it cool completely in a colander.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, prepare the dressing. Whisk together the 1/3 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, 1 tablespoon mustard, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon sugar, and the 1/2 teaspoon paprika. This is where the magic begins, creating a base that captures that classic deviled egg flavor.
- Step 4: Add the 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to the dressing. This simple deviled egg pasta seasoning really wakes up all the flavors. Taste and adjust if needed – maybe a pinch more salt or a touch more vinegar!
- Step 5: Gently fold the cooled pasta into the dressing. Then, add the 6 hard-boiled eggs, chopped, the 2 celery stalks, finely chopped, and the 3 green onions, thinly sliced. If you’re using it, stir in the 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish now.
- Step 6: Mix everything together until all the ingredients are beautifully coated in the creamy dressing. Ensure the deviled egg pasta seasoning is evenly distributed. The salad should look luscious and inviting.
- Step 7: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour. This chilling time is crucial for allowing the flavors to meld and deepen, transforming it into a truly cohesive and delicious pasta dish.
- Step 8: Before serving, give the pasta salad a good stir. Garnish with a little extra paprika for a pop of color and a hint of that classic deviled egg look. Enjoy this wonderful deviled egg pasta salad!
Pro Tips for the Best Eggcellent Pasta Delight Deviled
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that really elevate this dish from good to absolutely unforgettable. Follow these tips for a truly stellar pasta salad!
- Make sure your pasta is completely cool before mixing. Hot pasta will absorb too much dressing and make the salad gummy.
- Chop your hard-boiled eggs finely and evenly for the best texture and distribution throughout the salad.
- Don’t skip the chilling time! This is essential for the flavors to meld and create that signature deviled egg taste.
- Taste and adjust seasoning *after* chilling. The flavors can change slightly as it sits, so a final check is key.
What’s the secret to perfect deviled egg pasta salad?
The secret lies in the dressing and the chilling time. My tip for a truly decadent, creamy deviled egg pasta sauce is to use a mix of mayonnaise and sour cream, and to let the salad chill for at least an hour to let those flavors marry perfectly. For more insights on creating delicious dressings, you might find resources on vinaigrette techniques helpful.
Can I make deviled egg pasta salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This is a fantastic make-ahead dish. You can prepare the whole salad up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it covered and chilled in the refrigerator. The flavors actually get even better overnight!
How do I avoid common mistakes with Eggcellent Pasta Delight Deviled?
The biggest pitfall is overcooking the pasta – aim for al dente! Also, avoid overmixing once the eggs are added, as this can make them mushy. Lastly, ensure all ingredients are well-chilled before combining for the best texture.
Best Ways to Serve Eggcellent Pasta Delight Deviled
This delicious pasta salad is incredibly versatile and works beautifully as a side dish for almost any meal. It’s a fantastic potluck contribution, a must-have for picnics, and a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or sandwiches. For a classic American meal, try pairing it with barbecued chicken or burgers. If you’re looking for more hearty pasta dishes with eggs, consider serving this alongside a baked ham or roasted turkey. It also makes a delightful light lunch on its own, perhaps with a side of crusty bread. For other great side dish ideas, check out these cheesy scalloped potatoes.
Nutrition Facts for Eggcellent Pasta Delight Deviled
Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving of this delightful pasta salad:
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on understanding nutritional labels, you can refer to resources from the U.S. Food & Drug Administration.
How to Store and Reheat Eggcellent Pasta Delight Deviled
Proper storage is key to keeping this delicious pasta salad fresh and tasty. Once it has cooled down completely, transfer your Eggcellent Pasta Delight Deviled to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. I often find that this egg salad pasta is even better on the second day! While it’s not ideal for freezing due to the creamy dressing and eggs, if you must, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months, though the texture might change slightly upon thawing. To reheat, it’s best to enjoy it cold. If you prefer it slightly warmer, you can gently warm individual portions in the microwave for very short bursts, just until slightly chilled, not hot.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eggcellent Pasta Delight Deviled
Is this a good make-ahead dish for parties?
Absolutely! This Eggcellent Pasta Delight Deviled is perfect for parties because you can make it a day in advance. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even tastier. Just keep it covered and chilled in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What makes this an easy deviled egg pasta salad?
It’s considered an easy deviled egg pasta salad because it uses simple, common ingredients and straightforward steps. There’s no complex cooking involved, just mixing and chilling, making it accessible even for beginner cooks. Plus, the combination of familiar deviled egg flavors with pasta is always a winner! If you’re looking for other simple yet impressive dishes, consider these mini citrus cloud bites.
Can I add meat to this pasta salad?
While this recipe is vegetarian, you can certainly add cooked, diced chicken or ham for a heartier meal. Just ensure the meat is fully cooled before adding it to the salad with the other ingredients.
What if I don’t have elbow macaroni?
No problem! You can substitute elbow macaroni with other small pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or shells. Just make sure to cook them al dente according to package directions and cool them completely before mixing.
Variations of Eggcellent Pasta Delight Deviled You Can Try
Looking to shake things up or cater to specific tastes? This versatile dish is a fantastic base for all sorts of creative additions, making it one of those truly unique pasta salad recipes. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a tablespoon of finely minced jalapeño to the dressing for a delightful little heat.
- Bacon Bliss: Crispy, crumbled bacon stirred in at the end adds a smoky, savory crunch that’s irresistible.
- Vegetarian Delight: For a heartier vegetarian option, stir in some steamed broccoli florets or chopped bell peppers.
- Herb Garden Twist: Fresh dill or chives chopped and mixed in with the green onions add an extra layer of fresh, aromatic flavor.
Eggcellent Pasta Delight Deviled: Flavorful 1-Hour Dish
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and flavorful pasta salad that combines the best of deviled eggs and pasta salad. It features chopped hard-boiled eggs, crisp celery, green onions, and a tangy-sweet dressing.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and cool completely.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Add cooled pasta, chopped hard-boiled eggs, celery, green onions, and sweet pickle relish to the bowl.
- Mix until all ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
- Refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, stir the pasta salad and garnish with extra paprika and fresh parsley.
Notes
- For a touch of sweetness, use honey mustard in place of regular mustard.
- Add extra pickle relish for more tang.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish, Potluck Favorite
- Method: Mixing and Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 340 kcal