Basic Baked Frittata Recipe
A frittata is a versatile, baked egg dish that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. With a few basic ingredients, you can create a delicious meal in no time. Here’s a simple recipe for a basic baked frittata, followed by some fun variations.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6):
- 8 large eggs
- 1/3 cup milk (or heavy cream for a richer frittata)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
- 1 cup cooked vegetables (spinach, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, etc.)
- 1/2 cup cooked protein (optional: bacon, sausage, ham, or chicken)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for greasing the pan)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the pan:
- Grease an oven-safe skillet or baking dish (9-inch works well) with olive oil or butter.
3. Whisk the eggs:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
4. Add fillings:
- Stir in the shredded cheese, cooked vegetables, and protein (if using). Mix well.
5. Pour into the pan:
- Pour the egg mixture into the prepared skillet or baking dish, spreading the fillings evenly.
6. Bake:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the frittata is puffed up and the center is set. Insert a knife into the center—it should come out clean.
7. Cool and serve:
- Let the frittata cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, at room temperature, or cold.
Frittata Variations
Here are a few tasty variations to try with the basic recipe:
1. Mediterranean Frittata
- Vegetables: Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and red onions
- Cheese: Feta cheese
- Protein (optional): Diced chicken or crumbled sausage
- Seasoning: Add a pinch of dried oregano and basil
2. Veggie Lover’s Frittata
- Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes
- Cheese: Mozzarella or goat cheese
- Seasoning: Add a sprinkle of garlic powder and fresh parsley
3. Meat Lover’s Frittata
- Protein: Cooked bacon, sausage, and ham
- Vegetables: Diced onions and bell peppers
- Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack
4. Caprese Frittata
- Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes and fresh basil
- Cheese: Fresh mozzarella
- Topping: Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving
5. Spicy Southwest Frittata
- Vegetables: Diced onions, jalapeños, and black beans
- Cheese: Pepper Jack
- Protein (optional): Chorizo or cooked ground beef
- Topping: Serve with salsa, avocado, and sour cream
6. Breakfast Frittata
- Vegetables: Diced potatoes or hash browns, green onions
- Cheese: Cheddar
- Protein: Crumbled breakfast sausage or bacon bits
Tips for Perfect Frittatas
- Use pre-cooked ingredients: Any vegetables or proteins should be pre-cooked to ensure they’re tender and flavorful when baked.
- Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the frittata—it’s done when it’s set in the center but still slightly jiggly. Overbaking can make it dry.
- Customize freely: Swap in your favorite veggies, cheeses, and proteins to suit your taste.
Enjoy your frittata hot, cold, or even as leftovers—it’s just as delicious the next day!
