Description
Ham and Broccoli Cheddar Frittata
Ingredients
8 large eggs
1/4 cup milk
1 cup cooked ham, diced
1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Whisk the eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Sauté the ham and broccoli: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add ham and broccoli, cooking for 2–3 minutes.
Add the eggs: Pour the egg mixture into the skillet, spreading evenly. Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.
Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the frittata is set in the middle.
Serve: Let it cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 250 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect frittata every time. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped: dice the ham, steam the broccoli florets until just tender, and shred the cheddar cheese. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position a rack in the center. In a large bowl, vigorously whisk the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until completely uniform and slightly frothy. This incorporates air for a lighter texture. Heat olive oil in a 10-inch oven-safe skillet (like cast iron) over medium heat. Add the ham and broccoli, sautéing for 2-3 minutes to warm through and infuse the oil with flavor. Reduce heat to low, then pour the egg mixture evenly over the fillings. Gently shake the pan to distribute. Do not stir. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the top. Let it cook undisturbed on the stovetop for 2 minutes to set the bottom before transferring the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes. The frittata is done when the center is just set and the edges are golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile frittata shines in various settings. For a hearty brunch, serve a wedge with a side of fresh fruit salad and crispy hash browns. For a light lunch or dinner, pair it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. It’s also perfect for meal prep; cool completely, slice into portions, and store in the refrigerator for easy grab-and-go breakfasts all week. It can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or even cold.
How-to Summary
In short: Whisk eggs with seasonings, sauté pre-cooked ham and broccoli in an oven-safe skillet, pour eggs over top, add cheese, and bake at 375°F until set. The key steps are using an oven-safe skillet and letting the bottom set on the stovetop before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this frittata ahead of time? Absolutely. Bake, cool, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or a warm oven.
What can I use instead of ham? Cooked bacon, sausage, diced chicken, or even smoked salmon are excellent substitutes. For a vegetarian version, use sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers.
My frittata turned out rubbery. What happened? Overcooking is the most common cause. Eggs continue to cook after removal from the oven. Bake just until the center is no longer liquid and remove it promptly.
Do I have to use an oven-safe skillet? Yes, it’s essential. If you don’t have one, sauté ingredients in a regular pan, then transfer everything to a greased pie dish or baking dish before adding cheese and baking.
Can I freeze a frittata? Yes. Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the eggs: Whisk just until blended; overmixing can make the texture dense.
- Using raw, wet vegetables: Always pre-cook vegetables like broccoli to release excess water, preventing a soggy frittata.
- Stirring after adding eggs: Once the egg mixture is in the pan, let it set to form a proper base. Stirring creates scrambled eggs.
- Not preheating the skillet: A properly heated skillet ensures the bottom sets quickly and doesn’t stick.
- Overbaking: Check early. The frittata is done when slightly jiggly in the center, as residual heat will finish the cooking.
Conclusion
This Ham and Broccoli Cheddar Frittata is a foolproof recipe that delivers a protein-packed, flavorful meal in under 30 minutes. Its simplicity and flexibility make it a staple for busy mornings, elegant brunches, or simple dinners. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you’ll achieve a perfectly cooked, cheesy frittata every time. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious, satisfying results.