For a hard-boiled egg , cook large eggs for about 10–14 minutes , depending on your method and how firm you want the yolk. A common stovetop method is boil first, then cook for 10–12 minutes , followed by an ice bath to stop the cooking.

Quick Scoop

  • 10 minutes : fully set, classic hard-boiled texture.
  • 11–12 minutes : slightly firmer yolk, often easier for meal prep.
  • 13–14 minutes : very firm, but too long can make the yolk dry or give it a green ring.

Simple Method

  1. Bring water to a boil.
  2. Add the eggs gently.
  3. Cook at a steady boil or in hot covered water for the time above.
  4. Move them straight into ice water for about 10 minutes.

Easy Rule

If you just want one number, use 11 minutes for large eggs , then cool them in ice water.

Meta Description

How long to cook a hard-boiled egg: most large eggs need about 10–14 minutes, depending on whether you want a classic firm yolk or a slightly softer center.

Information gathered from public recipes and cooking guides on the internet and presented here.