Frittatas are a delicious and versatile egg dish you can make with anything on hand.
Over time, I’ve created so many frittatas by using different veggies, exploring cheese toppings, and trying meat add-ins such as bacon and sausage or skipping the meat altogether.
If you are new to cooking from scratch, this dish is very forgiving, as it’s almost impossible to mess it up.
Enjoy a fresh, warm frittata for any meal of the day to cover your dairy, protein, and vegetable intake.
Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a filling brunch, or a light dinner, frittatas can accommodate your needs.
Why You’ll Enjoy This Recipe
Versatility
One of the main reasons people enjoy frittatas is their versatility. You can use virtually any leftover ingredients in your fridge, whether vegetables, meats, or cheeses. These are especially great for produce fresh in season. This adaptability allows for endless flavor combinations, making each frittata unique.
Simple to Make
Frittatas are incredibly easy to make. The basic technique involves whisking an egg mixture with your choice of ingredients and then cooking it over low heat until set.
Great for Meal Prep
Frittatas can be made beforehand, making them ideal for meal prep. You can whip up a large frittata, cut it into individual servings, and have a convenient breakfast or lunch ready throughout the week. They refrigerate well and are great when you need something quick.
Healthy Ingredients
Frittatas are one of my favorite ways to incorporate nutritious ingredients such as leafy greens, colorful vegetables, and protein-rich eggs. You can create a satisfying and health-promoting meal by focusing on wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients for Making Frittatas
- Eggs -Farm fresh are my favorite!
- Milk – Raw while milk provides a lot more nutritional benefits.
- Onions – White, purple, or green onions work well.
- Peppers – Aim for as many colors as possible -yellow, green, red, and orange.
- Cheddar Cheese (or your preferred flavor cheese)
- Roasted tomatoes – Garden fresh tomatoes add a flavor that is hard to match with store-bought. But, whatever you have on hand is fine.
- Fresh herbs – Some of my favorites for this are thyme, rosemary, and parsley, but you can use fresh herbs of your choice.
- Salt and pepper and taste
- Olive oil – Use the olive oil lightly to roast the tomatoes.
*Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Make Easy Frittatas
Step 1: Thinly slice the tomatoes. Lightly drizzle olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes at 400 degrees.
Step 2: Remove tomatoes and reduce oven to 350 degrees.
Step 3: Chop the onions, peppers, or other vegetables you add to the frittata. (Set aside)
Step 4: Whisk the eggs and milk together in a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped vegetables, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs to the egg mixture. Save some fresh herbs to add to the top of the frittata. Pour the combined mixture into a cast-iron skillet.
Step 5: Cover the top of the frittata with fresh herbs and roasted tomatoes. Halfway through the baking time, place the grated cheese on top of the frittata. You can occasionally run the silicon spatula along the sides of the frittata to prevent any sticking.
Step 6: Place the cast-iron skillet in the oven for 45 minutes. Check for doneness. Bake until the frittata is golden and puffy and the center feels firm.
Tools You May Need
To make a frittata, you need only a cast-iron skillet (or baking dish), mixing bowl, whisk, cutting board, silicon spatula, and oven mitts.
If you are preparing multiple vegetables (which you should), a food processor can save time and effort when chopping or shredding ingredients. A sharp chopping knife works just fine if you don’t have a food processor.
You will also need a baking sheet to roast the tomatoes before cooking the frittata.
Tips for Making Frittatas
Balance Your Ingredients
To achieve a delightful frittata, go for a balance between eggs, dairy, and add-ins. A general rule of thumb is to use ½ cup of milk for every six eggs. This provides a creamy texture without being too rich. You can experiment with different types of dairy, including heavy cream, half-and-half, or even dairy-free alternatives.
Cook on Low Heat
Cooking your frittata over low heat allows the eggs to set gently, resulting in a creamy texture without the risk of overcooking. It is important to monitor the cooking process closely; too high of heat can lead to burnt or overcooked eggs.
Use Fresh Herbs and Seasonings
Incorporating fresh herbs and seasonings into your frittata can elevate its flavor significantly. Consider using rosemary, thyme, parsley, chives, or even spices like paprika or chili powder if you like a “kick” to your frittata.
Finish in the Oven
While some frittatas can be cooked solely on the stovetop, transferring them to the oven during the final stages of cooking helps set the eggs evenly and develop a beautifully golden top. You can cook the dish solely in the oven to save a step.
Avoid Overbaking
Keep a close eye on your frittata while it bakes. When it reaches a golden color and the center is firm, it’s time to remove it from the oven.
FAQs About Frittatas
- What is a frittata?
A frittata is an Italian egg dish cooked on the stovetop and then finished in the oven. It is similar to a crustless quiche but is typically made with a mix of eggs, dairy, and various add-ins such as vegetables, meats, and cheeses. - How long does it take to cook a frittata?
Cooking time varies depending on your oven and skillet size, but generally, a frittata takes around 30-45 minutes in the oven. Always check for doneness by looking for a firm texture. - Can I make a frittata ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the egg mixture and any prepared fillings in advance. Frittatas store well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. - How do I prevent sticking?
Using a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet can help minimize sticking. Feel free to add a tablespoon of coconut oil before adding the ingredients to the skillet. Additionally, running a spatula around the edges of the frittata during cooking will help prevent adhesion. - What can I substitute in a frittata?
Frittatas are highly customizable! You can swap regular milk for plant-based options, use different cheeses, and choose your favorite vegetables or meats for add-ins.
Serving Suggestions
Frittatas are excellent on their own but can be beautifully complemented with various sides, transforming them into a complete meal. Here are some ideas for serving:
Fresh Salads
A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of a frittata. For an enjoyable contrast, consider ingredients like mixed greens, arugula, or even pasta salads.
Light Soups
Serve a warm, light soup alongside your frittata for added comfort. Tomato basil or a vegetable minestrone can provide a hearty complement.
Crispy Potatoes
Potato dishes, such as seasoned home fries or hash browns, are classic sides that pair perfectly with frittatas for breakfast or brunch.
Crusty Bread
Toasted or served warm, a fresh loaf of sourdough bread adds a lovely touch to the meal.
Light Desserts
Finish off your brunch with a light dessert like a fruit salad or a yogurt parfait. The sweetness and acidity of fresh fruit can cleanse the palate after the savory frittata.
Make Ahead and Storage for Frittatas
Frittatas are a fantastic meal-prep option, allowing you to save time during hectic weekdays. Here’s how to prepare them ahead of time and store them properly.
Making Ahead
Prepare the Ingredients: Chop and cook any vegetables or meats, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Whisk the Egg Mixture: You can whisk eggs, dairy, and seasonings up to two days in advance. Store this mixture in the fridge until you are ready to cook.
Bake When Ready: When making your frittata, mix the prepared veggies with the egg mixture and bake as directed.
Storage Tip
Refrigerate Leftovers: Once cooked, a frittata can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
More brunch recipe ideas from home-cooking is better!
Frittatas
Equipment
- cast iron skillet or deep baking dish
- mixing bowl
- whisk
- silicon spatucula
- oven mittens
- sharp knife optional: food processor
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 12 Eggs -Farm fresh are my favorite!
- 1 cups Milk – Raw while milk provides a lot more nutritional benefits.
- 1-2 Onions – White purple, or green onions work well.
- 3 Peppers – Aim for as many colors as possible -yellow green, red, and orange.
- 2 cup Cheddar Cheese or your preferred flavor cheese
- 1 cup Roasted tomatoes – Garden fresh tomatoes add a flavor that is hard to match with store-bought. But whatever you have on hand is fine.
- 1 tbsp. Fresh herbs – Some of my favorites for this are thyme rosemary, and parsley, but you can use fresh herbs of your choice.
- Salt and pepper and taste
- Olive oil – Use the olive oil lightly to roast the tomatoes.
Instructions
- Step 1: Thinly slice the tomatoes. Lightly drizzle olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes at 400 degrees.Step 2: Remove tomatoes and reduce oven to 350 degrees.
- Step 3: Chop the onions, peppers, or other vegetables you add to the frittata. (Set aside)
- Step 4: Whisk the eggs and milk together in a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped vegetables, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs to the egg mixture. Save some fresh herbs to add to the top of the frittata. Pour the combined mixture into a cast-iron skillet.
- Step 5: Cover the top of the frittata with fresh herbs and roasted tomatoes. Halfway through the baking time, place the grated cheese on top of the frittata. You can occasionally run the silicon spatula along the sides of the frittata to prevent any sticking.
- Step 6: Place the cast-iron skillet in the oven for 45 minutes. Check for doneness. Bake until the frittata is golden and puffy and the center feels firm.
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