How to Hard-Boil an Egg

Step 1: Get eggs Purchase eggs one week prior to cooking. Fresh eggs are harder to peel.
TIP: Don’t use eggs that have visible cracks – they could be spoiled.
Step 2: Remove eggs from refrigerator Remove eggs from the refrigerator 15 minutes before cooking. Room temperature eggs are less likely to crack in hot water.
Step 3: Place eggs in saucepan Place one layer of eggs in a saucepan. Laying eggs on top of each other will cook them unevenly.
Step 4: Add water Add enough water to cover the eggs.
Step 5: Turn stove on high Turn the heat on high. Place the lid on the pan and wait until the water is at a rapid boil.
Step 6: Remove from burner Remove the pan from the burner and turn it off. Take the lid off the pan and return the pan to the burner.
Step 7: Simmer eggs Simmer jumbo eggs in water for 18 minutes, large eggs for 15 minutes, and medium eggs for 12 minutes.
Step 8: Run cold water over eggs Remove the pan from the stove top and place it in the sink. Run cold water over the eggs until they’re cool to the touch.
FACT: Did you know? A hen lays 265 eggs per year on average.

Lessons in this Guide