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This crispy egg salad is a fantastic way to upgrade a simple hard-boiled egg into something crunchy and full of flavor. It is perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying snack when you want something a little different but still easy and fast to make.
I whipped this up on a slow afternoon, and it instantly became a favorite in our house because it feels familiar but with a fun twist from the crisping step.
Ingredients
- Six hard boiled eggs: eggs provide protein and make the salad hearty choose fresh eggs if you can for the best texture
- Half a cup shredded mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully adding gooey richness pick a fresh mozzarella that is soft and creamy
- Two tablespoons mayonnaise: adds creaminess opt for kewpie mayo if you like a slightly tangier flavor
- Half a tablespoon sriracha: gives a gentle spicy kick balance to your heat preference for the best result
- Two teaspoons finely chopped chives: bring a mild oniony brightness to lift the flavors choose vibrant green chives for freshness
- Kosher salt: essential for seasoning to taste use coarse kosher salt for better control
- Freshly cracked black pepper: adds depth and a subtle bite freshly cracked is best for aroma and flavor
Instructions
- Mix the Egg Salad:
- Chop the six hard boiled eggs into a bowl. Add the mayonnaise sriracha chopped chives shredded mozzarella cheese kosher salt and cracked black pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly so each piece is well coated and the flavors blend.
- Pan Fry the Egg Salad:
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium high heat. Lightly spray with olive or avocado oil cooking spray to prevent sticking. Drop a dollop of about a quarter cup of the egg mixture onto the pan. Let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the bottom is golden and crispy. Carefully flip the patties and cook for another minute on the other side. This step crisps the outer layer while keeping the inside creamy. Don’t overcook or the cheese will melt too much making it difficult to handle.
- Assemble:
- Toast a slice of your favorite bread until crisp. Spread a generous layer of sliced or mashed avocado on top which adds creaminess and freshness. Place the crispy egg salad piece onto the bread. Add a few slices of jalapeño for heat if you like. Serve this warm best enjoyed right away to keep the crispy texture.
My favorite part is the crispy sear on the outside it adds such a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy egg and melted cheese inside. This salad reminds me of lazy weekend brunches when I’d experiment with eggs in unexpected ways and ended up with delicious results every time.
Storage Tips
Keep the egg salad mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days but it will lose the crispiness if stored after pan frying so it’s best to crisp just before serving. If you want to prepare ahead pan fry right before eating.
Ingredient Swaps
You can swap mozzarella for shredded cheddar or pepper jack if you want a sharper or spicier flavor. Mayonnaise can be replaced with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Green onions can substitute chives without losing too much brightness.
Serving Ideas
Serve the crispy egg salad on a lettuce wrap for a low carb option. Add sliced tomatoes or a handful of sprouts on top for extra freshness and crunch. This also makes a great sandwich filling alongside bacon or smoked salmon.
This crispy egg salad delivers both comfort and a delightful crunch that's perfect for any meal.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What type of cheese works best here?
Shredded mozzarella melts nicely and adds a creamy texture, enhancing the flavor without overpowering the eggs.
- → Can I use other mayonnaise options?
Yes, kewpie or regular mayonnaise both work well, bringing creaminess that binds the ingredients together.
- → How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to the pan?
Using a nonstick skillet with a light spray of olive or avocado oil ensures easy flipping and prevents sticking.
- → Is sriracha necessary for flavor?
Sriracha adds a subtle spicy kick, but you can adjust the amount or omit it to suit your taste preference.
- → Can this dish be served cold instead of pan-fried?
While serving it cold is possible, pan-frying adds a crispy texture and warmth that elevates the overall experience.