An old fashioned egg salad sandwich is one of those timeless comfort foods that never goes out of style. Creamy, flavorful, and easy to prepare, this classic sandwich recipe has been a favorite for generations. The combination of chopped hard boiled eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, celery, and onion creates a rich and satisfying filling that tastes delicious served between slices of soft bread.
This recipe is perfect for quick lunches, family picnics, afternoon snacks, or simple dinners when you want something comforting and homemade. The ingredients are affordable, easy to find, and come together in just a few simple steps. Once you make this classic egg salad from scratch, it can easily become one of your favorite go-to sandwich recipes.

1. Old Fashioned Egg Salad Sandwich Recipe ( Yield: 8 Servings)
Ingredients
- 12 hard boiled eggs
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
- ¼ cup finely chopped celery
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon dill pickle relish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Place the eggs in a large saucepan and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, cover the pan, remove it from the heat, and let the eggs sit for about 12 minutes.
Transfer the cooked eggs to a bowl filled with ice water. Allow them to cool completely for at least 10 minutes. This helps stop the cooking process and makes peeling easier.
Peel the hard boiled eggs carefully and pat them dry with paper towels. Chop the eggs into small pieces using a knife or egg slicer. Some larger chunks can remain for added texture if preferred.
Add the chopped eggs to a large mixing bowl. Stir in the finely chopped red onion and celery. The onion adds a slight sharpness while the celery provides a fresh crunch that balances the creamy filling.
Add the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, and dill pickle relish to the bowl. Mix gently until all the ingredients are evenly combined. The mayonnaise creates a smooth and creamy texture while the mustard adds a classic tangy flavor.
Season the egg salad with salt and black pepper to taste. Start with a small amount and adjust after tasting. Some people prefer extra black pepper for a bolder flavor.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the egg salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to blend together and improves the overall taste and texture.
To assemble the sandwiches, spoon the egg salad onto slices of bread, toast, croissants, or sandwich rolls. Add lettuce or sliced tomatoes if desired. Top with another slice of bread and serve immediately.
Store any leftover egg salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Tips for Perfect Old Fashioned Egg Salad Sandwich
Use eggs that are slightly older rather than extremely fresh. Older eggs are usually easier to peel after boiling.
Cool the eggs completely before mixing the salad. Warm eggs can make the mayonnaise mixture watery.
Chop the ingredients evenly for the best texture. Small, consistent pieces create a smoother and more balanced filling.
Avoid overmixing the egg salad. Stir gently to maintain some texture instead of turning the mixture into a paste.
For extra flavor, refrigerate the egg salad before serving. The chilling time allows the mustard, relish, and seasonings to blend into the eggs.
Choose soft sandwich bread for a traditional deli-style sandwich, or use toasted bread for extra crunch.
Add lettuce leaves to keep the bread from becoming soggy if packing sandwiches for lunch or picnics.
A sprinkle of paprika or fresh dill on top can add extra flavor and a classic presentation.
3. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make egg salad sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, the egg salad can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. For the freshest texture, assemble the sandwiches shortly before serving.
What bread works best for egg salad sandwiches?
Classic white bread is traditional, but whole wheat bread, sourdough, rye bread, croissants, and sandwich buns also pair well with egg salad.
Can I add extra ingredients to the egg salad?
Absolutely. Chopped pickles, fresh herbs, paprika, bacon bits, green onions, or avocado can all add extra flavor and texture.
How do I keep egg salad from becoming watery?
Dry the eggs after peeling and avoid adding too much relish or mayonnaise. Storing the salad in a sealed container also helps maintain the proper texture.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt can replace part or all of the mayonnaise for a lighter version. It creates a tangier flavor and creamy consistency.
4. Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230 |
| Protein | 11g |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Fat | 19g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 285mg |
| Sodium | 320mg |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sugar | 1g |
Old fashioned egg salad sandwiches are simple, comforting, and packed with classic flavor. The creamy texture, crunchy celery, and tangy mustard dressing come together to create a timeless recipe that works for almost any occasion. From quick lunches to family gatherings, this easy sandwich recipe always feels satisfying and familiar.
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can serve it on your favorite bread, customize the seasonings, or add extra toppings to make it your own. Once chilled and ready to serve, this homemade egg salad becomes a delicious meal that is both affordable and easy to prepare for busy days.