Boiling eggs sounds simple, but achieving the perfect hard-boiled egg, the ideal medium boiled eggs, or the delicate jammy yolk of soft-boiled eggs takes precision—and the right cookware. At All-Clad, we believe that small techniques and premium tools can elevate everyday cooking, including something as foundational as boiling eggs.

Boiling Eggs: Why It Matters

Eggs are a staple in every kitchen, providing quick protein for breakfast, salads, or snacks. But boiling eggs correctly can be the difference between rubbery whites and creamy perfection. The key is controlling time, temperature, and using a high-quality pot like the All-Clad D3 Stainless 2-Quart Saucepan for even heat distribution and reliable results.

How Long to Boil Eggs: Soft, Medium, and Hard

Soft Boil Eggs Time

For soft-boiled eggs, bring water to a gentle boil, lower your eggs in carefully, and cook for 6-7 minutes. For a runny yolk aim for 3-5 minutes, but if you want a more set jammy yolk, aim for the 6-7 minute range. Shock immediately in an ice bath for easy peeling and to stop cooking.

Medium Boiled Eggs

For medium boiled eggs with a jammy, custard-like yolk, cook for 8-9 minutes before transferring to an ice bath. These are perfect for ramen or avocado toast, adding creamy richness without being too runny.

The Perfect Hard Boiled Egg

For the perfect hard-boiled egg, you’ll want a yolk that is fully set but not chalky, and whites that remain tender. Boil for 10-12 minutes depending on your yolk preference before transferring to ice water.

 

3 eggs on a plate, each one of those showing: soft boiled egg, medium boiled egg, perfect boiled egg.3 eggs on a plate, each one of those showing: soft boiled egg, medium boiled egg, perfect boiled egg.
Six eggs in a bowl of ice water, cooling before being peeled.Six eggs in a bowl of ice water, cooling before being peeled.

Recipe for Hard Boiled Eggs

  1. Place eggs in a single layer in your All-Clad saucepan.
  2. Cover with cold water by one inch.
  3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  4. Once boiling, turn off the heat, cover, and let sit for:
    • 6-7 minutes (soft)
    • 8-9 minutes (medium)
    • 10-12 minutes (hard)
  5. Transfer eggs to an ice bath for 5-10 minutes.
  6. Peel and enjoy.

Easy Peel Hard Boiled Eggs: Tips for Success

Struggling with shells sticking? Here’s how to make boiled eggs easy to peel:

  • Use slightly older eggs when possible.
  • Shock the eggs in ice water immediately after boiling.
  • Gently crack and roll the egg under water before peeling.
  • Peel from the wider end where the air pocket forms.

Following these steps, especially using All-Clad’s stainless steel saucepans, ensures easy peel hard boiled eggs every time.

Mastering Eggs on Stainless Steel

Want to expand your egg mastery beyond boiling? Explore our detailed guide on Mastering the Art of Cooking Eggs on Stainless Steel, where we share how to make omelets, scrambled eggs, and fried eggs in your All-Clad stainless steel pans without sticking. This pairs perfectly with your boiled egg skills, ensuring you can cook eggs in every style confidently.