This Ina Garten Hard Boiled Eggs Recipe is a simple and foolproof method, which uses cold water and an ice bath for easy peeling. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in just 20 minutes.
Jump to RecipeIna Garten Hard Boiled Eggs Ingredients
- Large eggs (as many as you like, 6–12 is typical)
- Cold water
- Ice (for the ice bath)

How To Make Ina Garten Hard Boiled Eggs
- Place eggs in saucepan: Arrange eggs in a single layer in a saucepan. Add cold water until it covers the eggs by 1 inch.
- Bring to a boil: Place the pan over medium-high heat. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, turn off the heat and cover the pan with a lid.
- Let sit covered: Let the eggs sit in the hot water for exactly 15 minutes (adjust timing for smaller or larger eggs).
- Prepare ice bath: While the eggs sit, fill a large bowl with ice and water.
- Transfer to ice bath: After 15 minutes, drain the hot water and place the eggs in the ice bath. Let them cool for 5–10 minutes.
- Peel or store: Gently tap and peel the eggs under cold running water, or store them unpeeled in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Recipe Tips
-
How do I avoid green rings around the yolk?
Letting the eggs sit in hot water off the heat prevents overcooking and green yolks. -
What size pot should I use?
Use a pot large enough for eggs to sit in a single layer without stacking. -
How to peel easily:
Use older eggs (a few days old), and always chill in an ice bath before peeling. -
How long do hard-boiled eggs last?
Refrigerated in the shell, they last up to 1 week. -
Can I reuse the water for more eggs?
It’s best to start fresh with cold water for consistent results.
What To Serve With Hard Boiled Eggs
Hard-boiled eggs are versatile and great for:
- Egg salad sandwiches
- Cobb or Niçoise salads
- Deviled eggs
- Breakfast toast
- Grain bowls or bento boxes
How To Store Hard Boiled Eggs
Refrigerate:
Store unpeeled eggs in the fridge for up to 7 days. If peeled, keep them in a container with a damp paper towel.
Hard Boiled Eggs Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 78
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1.6g
- Cholesterol: 186mg
- Sodium: 62mg
- Carbohydrates: 0.6g
- Sugar: 0g
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on egg size and preparation.
FAQs
Can I use this method for medium or small eggs?
Yes, reduce the sit time by 1–2 minutes depending on size.
Can I make soft-boiled eggs with this method?
No, for soft-boiled eggs let them sit in hot water for about 6–7 minutes instead.
Why do some eggs crack while cooking?
Cracks can happen from rapid boiling. Starting with cold water helps prevent this.
Is it better to peel eggs right away or later?
Peel right after cooling for easier removal, or store unpeeled for freshness.
How do I tell if an egg is still good before boiling?
Place it in a bowl of water—if it sinks and lays flat, it’s fresh. If it floats, it’s old.
Try More Recipes:
- Ina Garten Raspberry French Toast Recipe
- Ina Garten Egg Salad Tartines Recipe
- Barefoot Contessa Roasted Vegetable Frittata Recipe
Ina Garten Hard Boiled Eggs Recipe
Course: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy6
servings5
minutes15
minutes78
kcalA simple and reliable method for making perfectly hard-boiled eggs with easy peeling and no green yolks.
Ingredients
-
Large eggs (6–12)
-
Cold water
-
Ice
Directions
- Arrange eggs in a single layer in a saucepan. Cover with cold water.
- Bring to a boil, then turn off heat and cover.
- Let sit for 15 minutes (adjust for egg size).
- Prepare ice bath in a large bowl.
- Transfer eggs to ice bath for 5–10 minutes.
- Peel under cold water or store unpeeled in the fridge.
