This Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is a delicious twist on the classic deviled egg, combining creamy pasta with all the flavors you love in a deviled egg. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a side dish for any meal. With hard-boiled eggs, elbow macaroni, and a creamy dressing spiked with mustard and smoked paprika, this salad is packed with flavor and texture.
Ingredients
(Serves 6–8)
- 6 large hard-boiled eggs , peeled and chopped
- 8 oz elbow macaroni pasta (or your preferred small pasta shape)
- 1¼ cups mayonnaise
- 2½ tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ teaspoon smoked paprika (plus extra for garnish, optional)
- ½ cup finely diced red onion
- 1 medium stalk celery , finely chopped
- 1 green onion , thinly sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Shake off excess water and set aside.
- Prepare the Hard-Boiled Eggs
- If you haven’t already boiled the eggs, place them in a pot of cold water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 9–12 minutes. Transfer the eggs to an ice bath to cool completely before peeling.
- Once peeled, chop the eggs into small pieces and set aside.
- Make the Dressing
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise , yellow mustard , kosher salt , and smoked paprika until smooth and well combined.
- Combine the Ingredients
- Add the cooled pasta, chopped hard-boiled eggs, diced red onion , and chopped celery to the bowl with the dressing. Gently stir everything together until evenly coated. Be careful not to mash the eggs while mixing.
- Chill the Salad
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is optional but highly recommended for the best taste.
- Garnish and Serve
- Before serving, give the salad a quick stir. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and a light dusting of smoked paprika for garnish, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Add Protein: For an extra hearty salad, mix in diced ham, bacon bits, or shredded chicken.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Stir gently before serving to redistribute the dressing.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Deviled Egg Pasta Salad combines two crowd-pleasing favorites—deviled eggs and pasta salad—into one irresistible dish. The creamy dressing, tangy mustard, and smoky paprika create a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. The addition of crunchy celery and red onion adds texture, while the eggs provide richness and depth. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or enjoying it as a weekday lunch, this salad is sure to become a family favorite!
Enjoy this creamy, flavorful twist on a classic dish—it’s a guaranteed hit at any gathering!
