How To Make Soft-Boiled Eggs

Making soft-boiled eggs is simple. All you need is eggs, salt, water, and ice. This tutorial for How To Make Soft Boiled Eggs is a foolproof method that yields perfect results every time.

This recipe makes four servings for about $0.50 per serving. Therefore, the total cost of the recipe is approximately $2.00.

If you prefer Hard-Boiled Eggs, check out my tutorial for How to Make Hard-Boiled Eggs.

Toast being dipped into the soft boiled egg yolk.

Adding an egg to the top of your meal elevates it to a new level. I love dipping toast into the runny yolk or even putting it in a nice bowl of ramen!

This tutorial for Soft-Boiled Eggs is easy to follow, takes a few minutes to make, and uses a handful of ingredients and materials to make it. The recipe is fail-proof, giving you an almost runny yolk with firm whites. The gooey liquid gold yolks are dreamy!

These Soft-Boiled Eggs are perfect for a quick breakfast, afternoon snack, or addition to your dinner.

Ingredients and Estimated Cost

Per Serving Cost: $0.40

Recipe Cost: $2.00

4 eggs – $2.00
Ice – $0.00
Water – $0.00

NOTE: The recipe prices are calculated by using grocery store websites. The actual cost of the recipe will vary depending on what ingredients you already have. I updated the pricing for this recipe in January 2023.

First, fill a medium sized pot with two to three inches of water. Bring the water to a simmer.
Using a slotted spoon, add the eggs to the water to simmer for four to six minutes.
Next, prepare an ice bath and add the eggs to the ice bath after they are done cooking.
Let the eggs sit for two to three minutes in the ice bath before removing them with a slotted spoon.
Finally, remove the shells and scoop out the egg. Seasn with salt and pepper before serving.

***For complete recipe instructions, see the recipe card below.

Storage Tips

SERVE: Serving soft-boiled eggs while they are still warm is best. However, you still want to add them to an ice bath to stop the cooking and make them easier to handle.

STORE: As long as you keep them in the shell, you can store the eggs in the refrigerator for up to two days.

FREEZE: The cooked eggs do not freeze well, so I do not recommend freezing this recipe.

REHEAT: Bring about ½ inch of water to a boil and carefully add the eggs. Cook for 3 minutes just to warm the eggs through. Then immediately place the eggs in an ice bath for 1-2 minutes.

Recipe FAQs

How long do you boil eggs for soft boil?

It will take just four to six minutes to cook these soft-boiled eggs once they are in the simmering water. After cooking for four to six minutes, the eggs will need to sit in an ice bath for a few minutes before peeling them.

Why are boiled eggs put into ice water after cooking?

Placing the eggs in an ice bath stops the cooking process so that the eggs do not overcook after taking them out of the water.

Soft Boiled Eggs in egg cups with toast for dipping on a white plate.

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A close up picture of the finished soft boiled egg.

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