How Do You Stop Eggs From Cracking When You Boil Them?

Shell damage, sudden temperature changes, or collisions in the pan can cause eggs to crack during boiling. Place eggs carefully; do not pierce their shells with a needle to prevent cracking. Piercing can allow bacteria to enter.

Boiling. You can arrange intact eggs in a single layer and start with cold water. Follow a reliable hard-boiling method; both white and yolk should be firm. Salt or vinegar does not eliminate cracking or microbial risks. There is no need for prolonged warming at room temperature before cooking.

Cracked eggs. Do not buy cracked eggs. Eggs that were intact before boiling and crack during cooking can be eaten when fully cooked. If an egg cracks on the way home, immediately break it into a clean container, cover, refrigerate, and cook thoroughly within 2 days. Discard eggs if you do not know when they cracked. Smell and float tests do not establish safety.

Cooling and storage. Cool hard-boiled eggs promptly, refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking, and use within one week. Do not use eggs with an off odor or spoilage signs.