Egg Salad with Cheese

Introduction

Egg Salad with Cheese is a rich and creamy upgrade to the classic egg salad, offering an extra layer of indulgence in every bite. This simple yet flavorful dish combines perfectly hard-boiled eggs with shredded cheese, smooth mayonnaise, and a blend of seasonings for a satisfying, protein-packed treat. Whether spread on toasted bread, stuffed into a wrap, or served as a dip with crackers, this versatile recipe is perfect for a quick lunch, picnic side, or anytime snack.

The first time I made this, I was surprised at how just a handful of ingredients could create such a comforting and delicious dish. The creamy texture of the eggs paired with the melty richness of cheese made for an irresistibly smooth and savory bite. A sprinkle of black pepper and a dash of mustard took it to the next level, adding just the right amount of tangy depth.

What I love most about Egg Salad with Cheese is how easy it is to customize. Swap the cheddar for Swiss or pepper jack for a different flavor profile, mix in crispy bacon for a smoky twist, or add fresh herbs for an extra pop of freshness. However you prepare it, this dish is a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy a timeless classic with a cheesy, delicious twist!

Perfect for:

• Sandwiches and wraps
• Picnic lunches
• Quick, protein-packed snacks
• Potluck gatherings
• Low-carb meal options

Why You’ll Love This Egg Salad with Cheese Recipe

Here’s why Egg Salad with Cheese is a must-try:

• Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of eggs and cheese makes this egg salad extra rich and delicious.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes with just a few simple ingredients.
• Customizable: Adjust the seasonings, cheese type, and add-ins to suit your taste.
• High in Protein: A nutritious, filling meal that provides essential protein.
• Versatile: Serve it in sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or as a dip.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Carbs: 3g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Egg Salad with Cheese:

• 6 large eggs
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives
• Optional: 1 tablespoon sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess

Ingredient Highlights

• Eggs: Hard-boiled eggs provide a creamy texture and a high-protein base.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adds a rich, sharp flavor, but you can use Swiss, Gouda, or Parmesan.
• Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy consistency while enhancing the flavor.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy kick that balances the richness.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness.
• Paprika: Provides a subtle smoky depth to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Eggs:

1. Boil the Eggs: Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover them with cold water.
2. Cook the Eggs: Bring the water to a boil, then turn off the heat and let the eggs sit for 10-12 minutes.
3. Cool the Eggs: Transfer the eggs to an ice bath and let them cool for at least 5 minutes.
4. Peel the Eggs: Gently tap the eggs and remove the shells under running water.

Prepare the Salad:

5. Chop the Eggs: Dice the hard-boiled eggs into small pieces and place them in a mixing bowl.
6. Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheese of your choice.
7. Mix the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
8. Combine Everything: Pour the dressing over the eggs and cheese, then mix until well combined.
9. Add Garnish: Stir in chopped green onions or chives for extra flavor.

How to Serve Egg Salad with Cheese

• Classic Sandwich – Serve it between two slices of toasted bread, a croissant, or a bagel for a satisfying and creamy sandwich.
• Lettuce Wraps – Spoon the egg salad into large romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb option.
• Stuffed Avocado – Halve an avocado, remove the pit, and fill the center with egg salad for a rich and creamy bite.
• On Crackers or Crostini – Serve as an appetizer by spreading the egg salad onto crackers, toasted baguette slices, or rice cakes.
• Egg Salad Melts – Spoon egg salad onto bread, top with extra shredded cheese, and broil until golden and bubbly.
• In a Wrap or Pita – Fill a tortilla or pita bread with egg salad, adding lettuce, tomato, and even crispy bacon for extra texture.
• As a Salad Topping – Serve over a bed of mixed greens, spinach, or arugula, and drizzle with a light vinaigrette.
• Stuffed Tomatoes – Hollow out large tomatoes and fill them with egg salad for a beautiful and delicious presentation.
• Deviled Egg-Style Bites – Scoop egg salad into halved hard-boiled egg whites for a twist on deviled eggs.
• In a Grilled Cheese Sandwich – Spread egg salad between two slices of bread with extra cheese, then grill for a crispy, cheesy, and creamy delight.

Additional Tips for Egg Salad with Cheese

• Use Fresh Eggs – Fresh eggs will give the best texture and flavor. If your eggs are older, they may have a sulfuric smell that affects the salad’s taste.
• Cook Eggs Properly – For perfectly cooked eggs, boil them for 10–12 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath for easy peeling and a creamy yolk texture.
• Choose the Right Cheese – Use sharp cheddar, Swiss, gouda, or feta for a bold flavor. Shred or finely chop the cheese for even distribution.
• Mash or Dice Eggs to Your Preference – If you like a chunky egg salad, dice the eggs. For a creamier texture, mash them with a fork or potato masher.
• Use a Mix of Mayo and Greek Yogurt – Mayo provides richness, while Greek yogurt adds a tangy, lighter touch. You can also try sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
• Season Well – Add Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, or a dash of hot sauce to enhance the flavor. A pinch of salt and black pepper is essential.
• Incorporate Crunch – Add chopped celery, red onions, pickles, or bell peppers for a satisfying crunch that contrasts the creamy texture.
• Let It Chill – For the best flavor, refrigerate the egg salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
• Serve in Creative Ways – Enjoy it on toasted bread, in lettuce wraps, stuffed in an avocado, or with crackers for a fun twist.
• Use Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle in chives, parsley, or dill for a burst of freshness that complements the creamy texture and cheesy goodness.

Recipe Variations for Egg Salad with Cheese

1. Bacon and Cheddar Egg Salad: Add crispy bacon bits for extra flavor.
2. Avocado Egg Salad: Mash avocado into the mixture for a creamy, healthy twist.
3. Spicy Jalapeño Egg Salad: Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
4. Greek Egg Salad: Mix in feta cheese and black olives for a Mediterranean taste.
5. Buffalo Egg Salad: Toss in buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles for a bold flavor.
6. Herbed Egg Salad: Stir in fresh dill, parsley, or tarragon for extra freshness.
7. Curry Egg Salad: Add curry powder for a warm, spiced variation.
8. Pimento Cheese Egg Salad: Blend in pimentos for a Southern-inspired version.
9. Deli-Style Egg Salad: Mix in diced ham for a heartier meal.
10. Smoked Salmon Egg Salad: Stir in flaked smoked salmon for a luxurious touch.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of eggs and mayonnaise changes when frozen.

Special Equipment for Egg Salad with Cheese

• Saucepan for boiling eggs
• Mixing Bowls
• Knife and Cutting Board
• Whisk or Spoon for Mixing

FAQ for Egg Salad with Cheese

1. Can I make this dairy-free? Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
2. What’s the best cheese for egg salad? Cheddar, Swiss, or Gouda work great, but feel free to experiment.
3. How can I lighten this up? Swap mayo with Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and mustard.
4. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! It tastes even better after chilling in the fridge for a few hours.
5. Can I use pre-boiled eggs? Absolutely! Store-bought boiled eggs save time.

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Conclusion

Egg Salad with Cheese is a rich, creamy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or even as a dip. Packed with protein and bursting with flavor, this simple yet delicious recipe is easy to customize to suit your taste. The combination of velvety eggs and melty cheese creates a smooth, indulgent texture that makes every bite irresistible.

Whether you keep it classic with mild cheddar or add a bold twist with sharp gouda or spicy pepper jack, this egg salad is a quick and versatile option for any meal. Serve it on toasted bread, in a lettuce wrap, or enjoy it straight from the bowl—however you choose, it’s guaranteed to be a staple in your kitchen.

I can’t wait to see your take on this cheesy egg salad! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you make it your own. Don’t forget to share your favorite mix-ins and serving ideas in the comments. Happy cooking!