how long to cook an egg
1 Gently lower the eggs into the water one at a time. 2  Cook the eggs for 5 to 7 minutes: For 1 to 2 eggs, cook 5 minutes for a very runny yolk or up to 7 minutes for a barely-set yolk. For 3 or 4 eggs, add a few extra seconds to your timing.  Remove the eggs with a slotted spoon.