Ham and Cheese Frittata: The Perfect Brunch Recipe

Ham and cheese frittata: just the name conjures up images of a golden-brown, savory delight, doesn’t it? Imagine sinking your fork into a fluffy, egg-based masterpiece, studded with salty ham and gooey, melted cheese. This isn’t just breakfast; it’s a culinary hug on a plate!

The frittata, an Italian cousin of the omelet, boasts a rich history rooted in simple, rustic cooking. Originating as a way to use up leftover ingredients, it has evolved into a versatile and beloved dish enjoyed worldwide. Think of it as the ultimate customizable canvas – you can toss in virtually any vegetable, meat, or cheese your heart desires.

But what is it about a ham and cheese frittata that makes it so irresistible? Perhaps it’s the perfect marriage of flavors – the salty, smoky ham complementing the creamy, rich cheese. Or maybe it’s the satisfying texture, a delightful contrast between the soft, yielding eggs and the slightly crisp edges. And let’s not forget the sheer convenience! This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners, lazy weekend brunches, or even a quick and satisfying lunch. It’s a one-pan wonder that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. So, are you ready to discover the magic of a perfectly baked frittata? Let’s get cooking!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 6 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk (whole milk preferred for richness)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Preparing the Vegetables and Ham:

Before we even think about cracking those eggs, let’s get our veggies and ham prepped. This will ensure everything cooks evenly and the frittata comes together beautifully.

1. Dice the Ham: If your ham isn’t already diced, cut it into small, uniform pieces. Aim for roughly 1/4-inch cubes. This size is perfect for distributing the ham evenly throughout the frittata.
2. Chop the Onion and Bell Pepper: Finely chop the onion and bell pepper. Again, aim for small, uniform pieces. The smaller the pieces, the quicker they’ll cook and the less likely they are to overpower the other flavors.
3. Mince the Garlic: Mince the garlic clove. Freshly minced garlic adds a wonderful aroma and flavor to the frittata. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can substitute with 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, but fresh is always best!

Preparing the Egg Mixture:

Now for the star of the show – the eggs! We want to create a light and fluffy egg mixture that will form the base of our frittata.

1. Whisk the Eggs: In a medium bowl, crack the 6 large eggs. Add the milk, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously until the eggs are well combined and slightly frothy. This step is crucial for creating a light and airy frittata. Don’t be afraid to whisk for a minute or two to really incorporate some air.
2. Set Aside: Once the egg mixture is ready, set it aside while we prepare the pan and sauté the vegetables.

Sautéing the Vegetables and Ham:

Sautéing the vegetables and ham before adding the egg mixture is essential for developing their flavors and ensuring they’re cooked through. This also prevents the frittata from becoming watery.

1. Heat the Olive Oil: Place an oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron, but any skillet that can go in the oven will work) over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat up for a minute or two. The oil should shimmer slightly.
2. Sauté the Onion and Bell Pepper: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and slightly translucent. Stir frequently to prevent them from burning.
3. Add the Garlic and Ham: Add the minced garlic and diced ham to the skillet. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and the ham is slightly browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
4. Distribute Evenly: Make sure the vegetables and ham are evenly distributed in the skillet. This will ensure that every bite of the frittata is packed with flavor.

Combining and Cooking the Frittata:

Now comes the exciting part – combining everything and cooking the frittata! We’ll start on the stovetop and finish in the oven for a perfectly cooked and golden-brown frittata.

1. Pour in the Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the vegetables and ham in the skillet. Use a spatula to gently distribute the vegetables and ham throughout the egg mixture.
2. Sprinkle with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the egg mixture.
3. Cook on the Stovetop: Cook the frittata on the stovetop over medium-low heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the edges begin to set. You’ll notice the egg mixture starting to solidify around the edges of the skillet.
4. Transfer to the Oven: Carefully transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C).
5. Bake in the Oven: Bake the frittata for 15-20 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
6. Check for Doneness: Keep a close eye on the frittata while it’s baking. The cooking time may vary depending on your oven. If the top is browning too quickly, you can loosely cover the skillet with aluminum foil.

Cooling and Serving:

Allowing the frittata to cool slightly before serving makes it easier to slice and prevents it from falling apart. Plus, it gives the flavors a chance to meld together even more!

1. Cool Slightly: Remove the frittata from the oven and let it cool in the skillet for about 5-10 minutes.
2. Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top of the frittata for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Slice and Serve: Slice the frittata into wedges and serve warm.

Tips and Variations:

This ham and cheese frittata is a versatile dish that can be easily customized to your liking. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, mozzarella, or pepper jack.
• Vegetable Additions: Add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes.
• Meat Substitutions: Substitute the ham with bacon, sausage, or chorizo.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Make it Vegetarian: Omit the ham altogether for a vegetarian option.
• Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme, oregano, or paprika.

Serving Suggestions:

This ham and cheese frittata is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides:

• Salad: Serve with a simple green salad for a light and refreshing meal.
• Toast: Serve with toasted bread or English muffins for a heartier breakfast or brunch.
• Fruit: Serve with fresh fruit for a sweet and savory combination.
• Potatoes: Serve with roasted potatoes or hash browns for a more substantial meal.

Storage Instructions:

Leftover frittata can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or bake in the oven until warmed through.

Conclusion:

This ham and cheese frittata isn’t just another breakfast recipe; it’s a culinary hug on a plate, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients. I truly believe it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe repertoire. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and adaptability. It’s quick enough for a weekday breakfast, elegant enough for a weekend brunch, and hearty enough for a light lunch or dinner.

Why is it a must-try? Well, beyond the obvious deliciousness of perfectly cooked eggs mingling with savory ham and melted cheese, it’s the sheer versatility that makes this frittata a winner. It’s forgiving, meaning you don’t have to be a master chef to nail it. The ingredients are readily available, and the preparation is straightforward. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies!

But the real magic happens when you start experimenting. Feel free to swap out the ham for cooked bacon, sausage, or even leftover roasted chicken. Cheese-wise, cheddar, Gruyere, mozzarella, or even a sprinkle of crumbled feta would all work beautifully. Want to add some vegetables? Sautéed onions, bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus would be delicious additions. Just remember to cook them before adding them to the egg mixture.

For serving suggestions, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect accompaniment. A side of crusty bread or toast is also a great option for soaking up all those delicious eggy juices. And for a truly decadent brunch, consider serving it with a side of fresh fruit and a mimosa or two!

Here are a few variations to get you started:

Mediterranean Frittata:

Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a taste of the Mediterranean.

Vegetarian Frittata:

Omit the ham and add a medley of your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers.

Spicy Frittata:

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a little kick.

Breakfast for Dinner Frittata:

Serve with a side of crispy hash browns and a dollop of sour cream.

I’m genuinely excited for you to try this recipe. It’s one of those dishes that I find myself making again and again, and I’m confident that you’ll love it just as much as I do. The ham and cheese frittata is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own.

So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and get ready to whip up a frittata that will impress your family and friends. And most importantly, have fun! Cooking should be an enjoyable experience, and this recipe is designed to be just that.

Once you’ve tried it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What were your favorite additions? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! I can’t wait to see what culinary creations you come up with. Happy cooking!