Ham and Spinach Frittata
Why Make This Recipe
Ham and Spinach Frittata is not just a meal; it’s a delightful way to start your day or enjoy a quick lunch/dinner. This dish is packed with protein from the eggs and ham, making it filling and energizing. The fresh spinach adds a dose of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice. Frittatas are also versatile; you can easily change the ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.
Moreover, making a Ham and Spinach Frittata is quick and easy. It requires very little time to prep and even less time to cook, making it ideal for busy weekdays or weekend brunches. Best of all, it’s a wonderful dish to impress your family or friends at gatherings. The vibrant colors and inviting aroma when you pull it out from the oven will have everyone gathering around the table.
How to Make Ham and Spinach Frittata
Creating a Ham and Spinach Frittata does not require gourmet cooking skills or fancy equipment. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
To make a Ham and Spinach Frittata, you’ll need the following:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
Directions
Let’s go through the steps to make your frittata:
-
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your frittata cooks evenly and comes out perfectly puffed and golden.
-
Whisk the Egg Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined. This will be your base for the frittata.
-
Prepare the Skillet: Heat olive oil or butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Using an oven-safe skillet is crucial as it will go directly from the stovetop to the oven.
-
Cook the Ham and Spinach: Once the oil or butter is hot, add the diced ham and chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook this mixture until the spinach wilts and the ham becomes slightly crispy. This usually takes around 3–5 minutes.
-
Combine Ingredients: Pour the egg mixture over the cooked ham and spinach in the skillet. Stir it slightly to combine all the ingredients. You want to make sure that the egg mixture spreads evenly.
-
Start Cooking on the Stovetop: Allow the frittata to cook on the stovetop for about 2-3 minutes. You will notice the edges start to set, which is a good sign that it’s time to move to the next step.
-
Add Cheese: Sprinkle your choice of grated cheese on top of the frittata. This will add a delicious melty layer that makes the dish even more enjoyable.
-
Bake in the Oven: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until your frittata is puffed and golden. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.
-
Cool and Serve: Once it’s done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. This makes it easier to slice. Cut the frittata into wedges and serve it warm.
How to Serve Ham and Spinach Frittata
A Ham and Spinach Frittata is best served warm and can be enjoyed in several ways. Here are a few serving suggestions:
-
Brunch Option: Serve the frittata with fresh fruit or a simple side salad for a delightful brunch. A glass of fresh orange juice or a steaming cup of coffee pairs wonderfully with this meal.
-
Quick Lunch: For a quick lunch, slice the frittata and serve it on a bed of mixed greens. Add a vinaigrette dressing to elevate the flavors even more.
-
Dinner Dish: You can also serve it as the main dish for dinner. Pair it with roasted vegetables or crusty bread for a complete meal.
-
Picnic Treat: This frittata is excellent served cold, making it a perfect addition to a picnic basket. Pack it up in slices and enjoy it outdoors with friends or family.
How to Store Ham and Spinach Frittata
Storing leftovers properly will help maintain the quality and taste of your frittata. Here’s how to do it:
-
Chill Quickly: Allow the frittata to cool to room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator. This will prevent condensation from making it soggy.
-
Use an Airtight Container: Place the cooled frittata in an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh and prevent any odors from other foods in the refrigerator from affecting its flavor.
-
Store in the Fridge: Your frittata can be stored in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving again.
-
Freezing Option: If you want to keep it for a longer time, you can freeze it. Cut the frittata into slices and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven.
Tips to Make Ham and Spinach Frittata
Making a Ham and Spinach Frittata is very flexible. Here are some handy tips to ensure your frittata turns out perfect every time:
-
Use Fresh Ingredients: Try to use fresh spinach and high-quality ham for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients can dramatically improve the overall taste of the dish.
-
Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix and match cheeses based on your taste preference. Feta, goat cheese, or even pepper jack can add exciting flavors to your frittata.
-
Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your mixture before pouring it into the skillet. You can adjust the salt and pepper according to your preferences.
-
Add Extra Vegetables: If you have other vegetables at home, toss them in too! Bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms can add more flavor and nutrition.
-
Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the frittata while it bakes to avoid overcooking. An overcooked frittata can become dry, which is not what you want.
Variation
The Ham and Spinach Frittata can be easily customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few variations you might enjoy:
-
Vegetarian Frittata: Omit the ham and add other vegetables like zucchini, tomatoes, or bell peppers for a satisfying vegetarian option.
-
Herbed Frittata: Add fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or chives to enhance the flavor and add a refreshing touch.
-
Zaatar Frittata: Sprinkle zaatar seasoning on top before baking for a Middle Eastern twist that lends a unique taste.
-
Spicy Frittata: If you like some heat, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.
FAQs
How long can I keep the frittata in the fridge?
You can store the Ham and Spinach Frittata in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. Make sure it is in an airtight container to preserve freshness.
Can I freeze frittata?
Yes! You can freeze frittata. It can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Just remember to wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
Can I add other ingredients to the frittata?
Absolutely! The Ham and Spinach Frittata is very versatile. You can add other cooked vegetables, different kinds of cheese, or even change the type of meat based on what you have available.
Is it necessary to use an oven-safe skillet?
It is highly recommended to use an oven-safe skillet to ensure safety and ease when transferring the frittata from stovetop to oven. If you don’t have one, you can cook the frittata fully on the stovetop with a lid on, though the texture may differ.
Can I make frittatas ahead of time?
Yes, frittatas can be prepared ahead of time. You can make it a day before and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve. They also make great leftovers for breakfast or lunch.
With this straightforward process, making a Ham and Spinach Frittata becomes a delightful culinary experience. It’s not only delicious but also a versatile dish that you can enjoy at any time of day. Whether served for brunch, lunch, or dinner, this frittata will be a hit in your kitchen. Enjoy trying out this recipe and experimenting with your variations!
PrintHam and Spinach Frittata
A delicious and nutritious frittata packed with protein from eggs and ham, combined with fresh spinach and cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil or butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced ham and chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until the spinach wilts and the ham is slightly crispy, about 3–5 minutes.
- Pour the egg mixture over the ham and spinach, stirring slightly to combine.
- Cook on the stovetop for about 2-3 minutes until the edges start to set.
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top of the frittata.
- Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until puffed and golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
Serve warm for best flavor; frittata can be stored in the fridge for up to 4-5 days or frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
