How long does it take to boil an egg perfectly?

Asked on: 7/21/2025

This question has been asked1times.

A perfectly boiled egg takes about 6-7 minutes for soft-boiled and 10-12 minutes for hard-boiled.

Estimated Duration: 7 minutes

To boil an egg perfectly, start with room-temperature eggs to prevent cracking. Bring water to a rolling boil, gently lower the eggs in, and set a timer: 6-7 minutes for soft-boiled (runny yolk) or 10-12 minutes for hard-boiled (firm yolk). Adjust time slightly for altitude or egg size. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking and ease peeling. This method ensures consistent results for salads, snacks, or breakfast. Fresh eggs (7-10 days old) peel best. For medium-boiled (slightly firm yolk), aim for 8-9 minutes.