There’s something incredibly comforting about the blend of tender broccoli and melty cheese baked into fluffy eggs. This Broccoli Cheese Frittata Recipe is a straightforward, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect any time of day – breakfast, lunch, or even a quick dinner. I always find the mix of smoky paprika and sharp cheddar gives it a cozy, yet vibrant flavor.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
Every time I make this frittata, it feels like I’m giving the family a real treat – without spending all morning in the kitchen. What I love is how simple ingredients come together to make a dish that’s both nourishing and delicious. If you want a hassle-free way to get veggies and protein on the table, this recipe is a winner.
- Quick and Easy: Ready from start to finish in under 50 minutes, making it a go-to for busy mornings or casual dinners.
- Versatile Flavors: The smoked paprika and cheddar add a smoky, rich depth that makes the veggies sing.
- One Pan Wonder: It cooks in a single oven-safe skillet, which means less cleanup – always a plus!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping in advance and enjoying for breakfast or lunch throughout the week.
Ingredients & Why They Work
This Broccoli Cheese Frittata Recipe combines simple pantry staples with fresh produce, delivering a balance of texture and flavor. Choosing fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar really elevates the taste, while a touch of cream keeps the eggs luxuriously smooth.
- Eggs: The base of the frittata, providing protein and structure – use large, fresh eggs for best results.
- Heavy Cream: Adds creaminess and helps keep the eggs tender and fluffy when baked.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic brings a subtle savory kick that wakes up the whole dish.
- Sea Salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the delicate broccoli and eggs.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground adds just the right amount of warmth and spice.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the broccoli, a mild olive oil prevents sticking and adds flavor.
- Broccoli: Chopped small to cook evenly and add a gentle crunch and freshness.
- Smoked Paprika: A hint of smoky warmth that complements the cheese beautifully.
- Scallions: Finely chopped for a mild onion flavor and a bit of color.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp and melty, this is the star that makes the frittata irresistible.
- Fresh Parsley: For garnish and a bright, herbaceous finish.
Make It Your Way
I like to switch up the veggies or cheese depending on what I have on hand. Sometimes I add a handful of sun-dried tomatoes or swap cheddar for feta to change the flavor profile. Don’t be shy—this Broccoli Cheese Frittata Recipe invites customization!
- Variation: I once stirred in some cooked crumbled sausage for a hearty, protein-packed version that blew everyone away at brunch.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Broccoli Cheese Frittata Recipe
Step 1: Whisking the Egg Mixture
Start by cracking your eggs into a bowl and whisking them together with heavy cream, minced garlic, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. I like to whisk until completely blended and a bit frothy to help the frittata turn out fluffy. Set this aside while you cook the veggies.
Step 2: Sautéing the Broccoli
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in a 12-inch oven-safe skillet. Toss in your chopped broccoli, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 to 8 minutes until the broccoli becomes tender but still has a slight bite. This ensures you won’t end up with soggy veggie bits in your frittata.
Step 3: Adding Flavors and Eggs
Sprinkle the smoked paprika and chopped scallions into the skillet, stirring to combine all those fragrant ingredients. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the broccoli, giving the pan a gentle stir so everything mixes but the broccoli remains mostly visible. The magic starts here!
Step 4: Topping with Cheese and Baking
Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar over the egg mixture. Slide the skillet into your preheated 400˚F oven. Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the cheese is bubbly and golden. To avoid the top browning too fast, I often cover it loosely with foil halfway through baking.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let it rest for a couple of minutes, then garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Cut into wedges and enjoy immediately – this is when the flavors are at their best.
Top Tip
Over the years, I’ve learned these small touches can really take the Broccoli Cheese Frittata Recipe from good to great in your kitchen.
- Use an Oven-Safe Skillet: It’s key for cooking on the stovetop then finishing in the oven—skip this and you’ll need to transfer the mixture, which can get messy.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Cooking it just until tender keeps a nice texture so the frittata isn’t mushy.
- Cover with Foil if Needed: If your cheese bubbles too quickly and starts burning, loosely tent foil to protect the top while eggs cook through.
- Let It Rest: Giving the frittata a few minutes out of the oven helps it finish cooking gently and makes slicing easier.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Frittata Recipe
Garnishes
I usually top mine with a sprinkle of fresh parsley right before serving. Sometimes I add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of good olive oil for extra richness and a little heat. These subtle touches really brighten the dish.
Side Dishes
Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil, or some crusty whole-grain bread to soak up every last bite. For a brunch spread, fresh fruit or roasted potatoes round it out beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, I like to bake this frittata in small ramekins or muffin tins for individual servings — it’s fun and festive. You can also cut it into neat squares and serve as finger food at a brunch or buffet.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover frittata stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend reheating slices gently in the microwave or oven to keep it tender.
Freezing
I’ve frozen leftover frittata portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat surprisingly well, making this recipe great for meal prep.
Reheating
To warm leftovers, I usually pop them in a 325˚F oven for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil. This keeps the frittata moist without drying it out or making the cheese rubbery.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Yes! Frozen broccoli can be used if fresh isn’t available. Just thaw and drain it well before cooking to avoid excess moisture in your frittata.
Cheddar is great, but other good choices include Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or feta for a tangier twist. Choose cheeses that melt well and complement the broccoli.
Yes, swap heavy cream for a non-dairy milk like coconut or almond milk, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Keep in mind the texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
The frittata is done when the edges are set, the center doesn’t jiggle when you gently shake the pan, and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, this Broccoli Cheese Frittata Recipe is one of those dishes I come back to again and again when I want something tasty and fuss-free that doesn’t skimp on comfort or flavor. It’s a kitchen classic that’s as friendly for newbies as it is for seasoned cooks. You’ll enjoy the ease of prep, the wholesome ingredients, and that golden cheesy top that always gets compliments. Trust me, once you try it, this frittata will become a regular on your menu.
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Broccoli Cheese Frittata Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Total Time: 48 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A delicious and hearty Broccoli Cheese Frittata featuring tender broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and aromatic scallions baked to perfection. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a satisfying meal any time of day.
Ingredients
Egg Mixture
- 8 eggs
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt, plus more as needed
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Vegetables and Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups chopped broccoli
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 5 scallions, finely chopped
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare egg mixture: Preheat the oven to 400˚F. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, minced garlic, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper until combined. Set aside.
- Sauté broccoli: Heat olive oil in a 12-inch oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped broccoli, season with additional salt and pepper to taste, and cook for 5 to 8 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
- Add seasonings and scallions: Stir smoked paprika and finely chopped scallions into the cooked broccoli to evenly distribute flavors.
- Combine with eggs: Pour the egg mixture over the broccoli in the skillet. Gently stir to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Add cheese and bake: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the egg mixture. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the eggs are fully set. If the top starts browning too quickly, cover the skillet loosely with foil partway through baking.
- Serve: Remove the frittata from the oven, cut into wedges, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use an oven-safe skillet to easily transfer from stovetop to oven without disturbing the frittata.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with whole milk or a low-fat alternative.
- Fresh herbs like thyme or chives can be added for extra flavor.
- To make it gluten-free, verify the paprika and other seasonings are free of additives.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated in the oven or microwave.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 330 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 390 mg
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