Egg Boiling Calculator
The #1 most Googled cooking question, answered. Get the perfect boiling time for any egg, every time.
Egg Boiling Time Chart
Times below are for large eggs from the fridge, at sea level, starting from a full rolling boil.
| Doneness | Time | Yolk | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Very soft | 6 min | Liquid, runny | Ramen eggs, toast soldiers |
| Soft | 7 min | Mostly runny center | Eggs Benedict, salads |
| Medium (jammy) | 9 min | Jammy, slightly soft center | The "perfect" egg, snacking |
| Medium-hard | 11 min | Mostly set, slightly moist | Egg salad, Cobb salad |
| Hard | 13 min | Fully set, no green ring | Deviled eggs, meal prep |
| Very hard | 15 min | Fully dry (may get green ring) | Not recommended |
The Perfect Method
Step 1: Bring a pot of water to a full, rolling boil. Use enough water to cover eggs by 1 inch.
Step 2: Gently lower eggs into boiling water with a spoon or strainer.
Step 3: Start your timer immediately. Reduce heat to maintain a gentle boil.
Step 4: When the timer is done, transfer eggs to an ice bath (bowl of ice water) for at least 5 minutes. This stops cooking and makes peeling easier.
Why Do Some Eggs Have a Green Ring?
The green-gray ring around overcooked yolks is iron sulfide — it forms when eggs are cooked too long or at too high a temperature. It's harmless but indicates overcooking. Following the times in this calculator will prevent it.
How Altitude Affects Boiling
Water boils at lower temperatures at higher altitudes (about 1°F less per 500 ft of elevation). This means eggs cook more slowly at altitude and need extra time. At 5,000 ft, add about 1-2 minutes to sea-level times. At 7,500+ ft, add 3-4 minutes.