Easy Frittata Recipe: A Hearty and Versatile Meal
If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful, and satisfying dish that can be made with a few ingredients and in less than an hour, an easy frittata is your answer. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, offering a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and smoky flavors. Frittatas are the ultimate one-pan dish, ideal for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even dinner. Whether you’re using up leftovers or preparing a meal for the family, this frittata will surely impress.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Main Dish
- Method: Skillet, Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Olive oil: Olive oil is used to sauté the vegetables in the skillet. Not only does it provide a light, healthy fat, but its mild flavor enhances the dish without overwhelming it. Olive oil is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and works perfectly for this easy frittata recipe.
- Mixed vegetables: The vegetable mixture can include peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or any other vegetable you prefer. These vegetables not only add vibrant color to the dish but also contribute essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The best vegetables for frittatas are those that cook quickly and can hold up to being baked in the eggs. A mix of colorful peppers, earthy mushrooms, and tender zucchini is a classic combination, but feel free to get creative.
- Cooked potatoes or hash browns: Potatoes or hash browns are an excellent addition to a frittata because they provide a hearty base and texture to the dish. You can use leftover cooked potatoes or hashbrowns, making this a great way to repurpose leftovers from another meal. The crispy edges of the hashbrowns provide a satisfying crunch and make the frittata more filling.
- Eggs: Eggs are the key ingredient in any frittata, providing the structure and rich, creamy texture. In this recipe, 8 large eggs are used, which creates a substantial base to hold the vegetables, cheese, and meat. Eggs provide the frittata with a custard-like texture that is light yet satisfying. They also serve as the binding agent that holds all the ingredients together.
- Half and half or sour cream: This ingredient adds richness to the eggs, giving them a smooth, creamy texture. Half and half is a common choice for frittatas, but sour cream can be used as a tangy substitute for extra flavor. The addition of cream or sour cream ensures that the eggs cook up light and fluffy, rather than dry or dense.
- Dry mustard powder: Dry mustard powder is a great addition to frittatas because it brings a mild, tangy heat to the dish without overpowering the other flavors. A small amount of mustard powder adds depth and complexity to the overall taste profile.
- Salt and black pepper: These basic seasonings are essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the other ingredients. Salt helps enhance the sweetness of the vegetables, while black pepper adds a subtle heat that balances the richness of the eggs.
- Bacon or ham: This frittata includes bacon or diced ham for a savory, smoky flavor. Bacon adds crispiness and a salty crunch, while ham offers a more delicate, milder flavor. You can use either or both, depending on your preference, and both options complement the eggs and vegetables perfectly.
- Green onions or chives: Fresh herbs like green onions or chives add a bright, aromatic touch that balances the richness of the dish. The sharp, oniony flavor of the green onions contrasts beautifully with the creamy eggs and savory bacon.
- Cheddar cheese: Cheddar is the most common cheese used in frittatas due to its melty, creamy texture and rich flavor. It’s a perfect choice to sprinkle over the eggs before baking. However, you can swap it out for other cheeses like mozzarella, goat cheese, or gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Fresh herbs: Fresh parsley, basil, or dill add a burst of color and a fresh, fragrant flavor to the finished dish. Fresh herbs are an essential finishing touch that can elevate the frittata and make it look as good as it tastes.
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This is the perfect temperature for baking the frittata and ensures that the eggs cook through while developing a golden, slightly crispy top.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Next, heat olive oil in an 8-inch skillet over medium heat. Add your chosen vegetables—peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or a combination of these—and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are tender but still crisp. You want the vegetables to retain some bite and texture so that they contrast well with the soft, creamy eggs. This step also allows the vegetables to release their natural flavors, which will be absorbed by the eggs when they’re combined.
3. Add the Potatoes or Hashbrowns
Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, stir in the cooked potatoes or hashbrowns. These ingredients add body to the frittata and create a hearty, filling dish. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to ensure that everything is heated through and that the potatoes get a nice crispness to them. The slight crunch from the potatoes will contrast beautifully with the smoothness of the eggs.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture
While the vegetables and potatoes are cooking, whisk together the eggs, half and half (or sour cream), dry mustard powder, salt, and pepper in a medium-sized bowl. The mustard powder will add a subtle kick of flavor that balances out the richness of the eggs. Make sure to whisk the ingredients thoroughly to ensure that the egg mixture is smooth and well-combined.
5. Combine the Ingredients
Once the vegetables and potatoes are ready, sprinkle the crumbled bacon (or diced ham) and sliced green onions over the vegetable mixture in the skillet. Then, pour the egg mixture evenly over the ingredients in the skillet. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the eggs and finish with a few sprigs of fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill for a burst of flavor and color.
6. Bake the Frittata
Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 14-16 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown. The frittata should be firm to the touch, with the eggs no longer jiggly. If you like a slightly crispy top, you can broil the frittata for an additional 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning the cheese.
7. Cool and Serve
Once the frittata is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This allows the frittata to set, making it easier to slice into wedges. Serve it warm, either as a main dish or as part of a larger meal.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon or ham and add extra vegetables like spinach, kale, or broccoli. For added protein, you can also include beans or tofu.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, goat cheese, or even blue cheese for a more pungent flavor.
- Meat Options: If you prefer sausage, chorizo, or ground turkey, these can easily replace the bacon or ham. You can also use leftover roasted chicken for a more substantial option.
- Herb Substitutions: While parsley is a popular choice, try adding fresh basil, thyme, or tarragon for a different flavor profile.