This deviled egg pasta salad combines all the rich, tangy goodness of traditional deviled eggs with the comforting texture of pasta in one hearty, crowd-pleasing dish. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, cookouts, and holiday spreads. Creamy, flavorful, and packed with protein, this recipe offers both nostalgia and innovation in every bite.
Ingredients for Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
For the Salad:
- 8 large eggs
- 12 oz elbow macaroni (or small shells)
- ¾ cup chopped celery
- ½ cup diced red onion
- ½ cup chopped dill pickles or relish
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Paprika, for garnish
- Chopped chives or green onions (optional)
For the Dressing:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
1. Boil and Cool the Eggs
Place eggs in a saucepan, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, cover, remove from heat, and let sit for 10–12 minutes. Cool in ice water and peel.
2. Cook the Pasta
Boil macaroni in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside to cool completely.
3. Prepare the Eggs
Slice the boiled eggs in half. Scoop yolks into a separate bowl and chop the whites. Mash yolks with mayonnaise, sour cream, both mustards, vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth and creamy.
4. Mix the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped egg whites, celery, onions, pickles, and deviled egg yolk dressing. Gently fold until evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Chill and Serve
Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Before serving, sprinkle with paprika and garnish with chopped chives or green onion if desired.
Pro Tips for the Best Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
- Use cold eggs for easier peeling.
- Rinse pasta with cold water to stop cooking and avoid mushiness.
- Mash yolks thoroughly for a silky, lump-free dressing.
- Taste before serving. Adjust salt, vinegar, or mustard to balance tang and richness.
- Let it rest. The flavor deepens after chilling, so prepare in advance when possible.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
| Occasion | Pair With |
|---|---|
| Summer BBQs | Grilled chicken, ribs, corn on the cob |
| Holiday Buffet | Glazed ham, roasted vegetables |
| Potlucks & Picnics | Fried chicken, coleslaw, fresh fruit |
| Light Lunch | Crackers, green salad, iced tea |
Serve chilled with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for extra zip.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Make-Ahead: Can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Stir before serving.
- Not freezer-friendly due to the mayo-based dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt works well as a healthier substitute and adds tang.
How do I keep the pasta from drying out?
Be sure to coat it while slightly warm, or reserve extra dressing to mix in before serving.
Can I add bacon or other proteins?
Absolutely. Crumbled bacon, diced ham, or shredded chicken complement the deviled flavor profile.
What type of mustard is best?
A mix of Dijon and yellow mustard offers both bold and classic deviled egg taste. Spicy brown mustard can be used for extra kick.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Deviled Pasta Salad: Add a dash of cayenne, jalapeños, or hot sauce.
- Southern-Style Twist: Use sweet relish and a pinch of celery seed.
- Low-Carb Version: Swap pasta for cooked cauliflower florets.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh dill, parsley, or tarragon for brightness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 310
- Fat: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
- Sodium: 370mg
Conclusion
Our deviled egg pasta salad brings together creamy richness, tangy brightness, and hearty texture in one satisfying dish. Ideal for gatherings or easy lunches, it’s a modern upgrade to a potluck classic. From the silky deviled yolk dressing to the perfect pasta bite, every forkful is balanced and delicious.