A Slice of Summer from My Kitchen to Yours
Every summer, when the garden bloomed with herbs and our fridge overflowed with eggs and seasonal veggies, my grandmother would whip up her beloved frittata. It wasn’t just a dish — it was a celebration of simplicity. Though my roots are Italian, I’ve lovingly adapted this version for American kitchens, using ingredients you likely already have.
This Easy Frittata Recipe is more than just quick—it’s your new go-to summer brunch hero. Whether you’re feeding a weekend crowd or prepping weekday lunches, this recipe delivers on taste, texture, and good vibes.
Table of Contents
Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: American (inspired by traditional Italian techniques)
- Dish Type: Breakfast, Brunch, or Light Dinner
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best for: Summer meals, picnics, make-ahead brunches
Ingredients for the Easy Frittata Recipe
Here’s everything you need to make a base frittata. It’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or cheese.
Base Ingredients:
- 8 large eggs
- 1/4 cup whole milk or half-and-half
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your choice)
Summer Veggies (feel free to mix and match):
- 1/2 cup diced zucchini
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
Optional Protein Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon or sausage (crumbled)
- 1/2 cup cooked shredded chicken
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 10-inch oven-safe skillet (cast iron is perfect!) or a baking dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
- In your skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onions, bell peppers, and zucchini. Sauté for 3–4 minutes.
- Toss in spinach and cherry tomatoes. Cook until just wilted, about 1 minute. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Whisk the Eggs
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Stir in your cheese and fresh basil.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
- Pour the egg mixture over the sautéed vegetables in the skillet.
- Gently mix with a spatula to distribute evenly.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the center is set and lightly golden.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Let the frittata rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with more basil or a light sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.
Pro Tips from My Nonna
- Room Temp Eggs: They whisk better and bake more evenly.
- Cheese Variations: Try feta, goat cheese, or pepper jack for extra flair.
- Make Ahead: Cook the night before and reheat gently in the oven at 300°F.
- No Oven? Start on the stovetop and finish under the broiler for 2–3 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of mixed greens and vinaigrette.
- Add toast or crusty bread for a more filling meal.
- Pair with a light summer fruit salad for a refreshing touch.
Nutrition & Dietary Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~210
- Protein: 13g
- Carbs: 4g
- Fat: 15g
- Gluten-Free (if using GF ingredients)
Variations: Make It Yours
- Mediterranean Frittata: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta.
- Tex-Mex Style: Use pepper jack cheese, jalapeños, and a side of salsa.
- Garden Harvest: Toss in corn, peas, or leftover roasted vegetables.
Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap slices individually in foil. Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a 300°F oven or microwave gently to avoid rubbery texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this frittata ahead of time?
Yes! You can make it the night before, refrigerate it, and reheat gently in the oven at 300°F before serving. It’s a great make-ahead brunch option.
2. What’s the best pan for baking a frittata?
A 10-inch oven-safe skillet, like cast iron, works best for even cooking. You can also use a greased 9×9 baking dish.
3. Can I make a dairy-free frittata?
Absolutely. Replace milk with unsweetened plant-based milk (like almond or oat), and skip or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.
4. How do I know when the frittata is done?
The edges should be golden, and the center should no longer jiggle. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Slice the frittata, wrap portions in foil or freezer wrap, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Easy Frittata Recipe
This easy frittata recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables and create a protein-rich breakfast or brunch in minutes.
- Oven-safe skillet
- 6 eggs (large)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (cooked, like spinach, bell peppers, onion)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Whisk eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add vegetables and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
Pour egg mixture over the vegetables, cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges set. Sprinkle cheese on top.
Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the frittata is fully set and slightly golden on top.
You can customize your frittata with any leftover meats or seasonal vegetables.
Conclusion: A Summer Staple You’ll Make Again and Again
This Easy Frittata Recipe is the kind of dish that becomes a staple in your summer kitchen—not just because it’s quick and satisfying, but because it’s endlessly versatile. Whether you’re hosting brunch, packing a picnic, or simply craving something fresh and nourishing, this frittata checks every box.
From my family’s table to yours, I hope this becomes a recipe you return to again and again—changing up the ingredients, getting creative, and savoring every bite. Cooking should feel like a joyful ritual, not a chore, and this dish reminds us just how simple and beautiful that can be.
Now tell me—how did yours turn out? What twist did you add? Let’s swap ideas in the comments!
Pair with These Brunch Favorites
- Serve alongside fluffy Buttermilk Pancake House-style pancakes for a brunch spread.
- Add a side of green goodness with the Easy Pasta Primavera Recipe—light, fresh, and spring-ready.
- For a Mediterranean twist on healthy eating, explore our popular Mediterranean Lemon-Dill Chicken Bowls.
- Include a side of zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus for a protein boost.
- Craving a flaky side? Try Croissant Bread Healthy as a unique, better-for-you brunch option.
- For a sweet touch to balance your savory meal, try the fruity and festive Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries Recipe.
