Frittatas have always been a staple in our home, especially on busy weeknights or relaxed weekend brunches. There’s something wonderfully comforting and versatile about them – a blank canvas for flavors, and a fantastic way to use up any leftover veggies lurking in the fridge. This particular recipe, with its vibrant spinach, sweet cherry tomatoes, and creamy goat cheese, has quickly become a family favorite. Even my pickiest eater, who usually turns his nose up at anything green, devours this frittata without complaint! The combination of the soft, fluffy eggs with the slightly tangy goat cheese and the burst of freshness from the vegetables is simply irresistible. It’s a dish that’s impressive enough for company but easy enough to whip up on a moment’s notice. Trust me, once you try this homemade frittata, it will become a regular part of your recipe rotation. It’s not just delicious; it’s a healthy, satisfying, and incredibly adaptable meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

This frittata recipe relies on fresh, high-quality ingredients to deliver maximum flavor. Let’s break down each component and understand why they are essential for creating the perfect homemade frittata:

12 Large Eggs: The foundation of any frittata, eggs provide structure, protein, and richness. Using large eggs ensures you have the right volume for a substantial and satisfying dish. Eggs are nutritional powerhouses, packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, making this frittata a healthy meal option. For the best results, use fresh, high-quality eggs. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even experiment with using farm-fresh eggs for an even richer flavor and vibrant yolk color.
4 tbsp Heavy Whipping Cream: A touch of heavy whipping cream adds a luxurious creaminess and richness to the frittata, preventing it from becoming dry or rubbery. It helps to create a more tender and delicate texture that melts in your mouth. While heavy cream is traditional, you can substitute it with milk, half-and-half, or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a slightly different flavor profile and dietary needs. However, heavy cream will give you the most decadent and classic frittata texture.
1 tsp Salt: Salt is a crucial seasoning that enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients in the frittata. It brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables and balances the richness of the eggs and cheese. Don’t underestimate the power of salt! Using the right amount is key to a well-flavored dish. You can adjust the salt to your preference, but starting with 1 teaspoon is a good baseline.
1/2 tsp Black Pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle warmth and spice to the frittata, complementing the other flavors. Freshly ground black pepper is always recommended for the best flavor and aroma. Like salt, pepper is essential for seasoning and adding depth to the dish. You can experiment with other types of pepper, like white pepper or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, if you desire.
4 Cups Fresh Spinach: Spinach is the star green vegetable in this frittata, providing a healthy dose of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It wilts down beautifully when sautéed, adding a delicate earthy flavor and vibrant green color to the frittata. Fresh spinach is preferred for its texture and flavor, but you can use frozen spinach in a pinch. If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible before sautéing. Baby spinach is particularly tender and works wonderfully in this recipe.
1 Cup Cherry Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes bring a burst of sweetness and acidity to the frittata, balancing the richness of the eggs and cheese. They also add a beautiful pop of color and a juicy texture. Halving or quartering the cherry tomatoes ensures they cook evenly and distribute their flavor throughout the frittata. You can use other types of tomatoes, like grape tomatoes or even diced Roma tomatoes, but cherry tomatoes are particularly flavorful and visually appealing in this dish.
1 Small Onion (Diced): Onion forms the aromatic base of the frittata, adding a savory depth of flavor. Dicing the onion ensures it cooks evenly and softens during sautéing. Yellow or white onions are classic choices for frittatas, but you can also use red onion for a slightly sharper flavor or shallots for a more delicate and sweeter taste. Sautéing the onion before adding it to the egg mixture is crucial for mellowing its flavor and preventing it from being too harsh in the finished frittata.
1 tbsp Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing the vegetables, adding a healthy fat and a subtle fruity flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its superior flavor and health benefits. You can also use other cooking oils like avocado oil or coconut oil, but olive oil is a classic choice for Mediterranean-inspired dishes like frittatas. The olive oil helps to prevent the vegetables from sticking to the pan and allows them to soften and develop their flavors.
1 Cup Crumbled Goat Cheese: Goat cheese adds a tangy, creamy, and slightly earthy flavor that complements the spinach and tomatoes beautifully. Its soft, crumbly texture distributes evenly throughout the frittata, creating pockets of cheesy goodness in every bite. Goat cheese is a delicious and flavorful cheese that pairs exceptionally well with eggs and vegetables. You can substitute it with feta cheese for a saltier and tangier flavor, or use mozzarella or Gruyere for a milder and meltier cheese option. However, goat cheese adds a unique and distinctive flavor that elevates this frittata.
1 tbsp Garlic (Minced): Garlic adds a pungent and aromatic flavor that enhances the savory notes of the frittata. Minced garlic distributes its flavor evenly throughout the dish. Freshly minced garlic is always preferred for the best flavor, but you can use pre-minced garlic from a jar for convenience. Garlic is a flavor powerhouse that adds depth and complexity to the frittata.

Instructions

Making this homemade frittata is surprisingly simple and straightforward. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delicious and impressive dish:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C): Preheating the oven ensures that the frittata cooks evenly and sets properly. Make sure your oven reaches the correct temperature before placing the frittata inside. A consistent oven temperature is crucial for baking success.
Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish: Greasing the casserole dish prevents the frittata from sticking and makes it easy to remove after baking. You can use cooking spray, butter, or olive oil to grease the dish. Ensure you grease the bottom and sides of the dish thoroughly. A glass or ceramic casserole dish works best for frittatas, as they distribute heat evenly.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a 10-inch non-stick sauté pan over medium-high heat: Using a non-stick pan makes sautéing the vegetables easier and prevents them from sticking. Medium-high heat allows the vegetables to soften and caramelize slightly without burning. Ensure the pan is heated before adding the olive oil to prevent sticking.
Sauté the onion and garlic together until soft: Sautéing the onion and garlic first allows their flavors to mellow and develop. Cook them until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. This step is crucial for building a flavorful base for the frittata.
Season with salt and pepper: Seasoning the vegetables while they sauté enhances their flavor and ensures that the frittata is well-seasoned throughout. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to the onions and garlic as they cook. You can adjust the seasoning to your preference later.
Add cherry tomatoes and spinach and cook until wilted: Once the onion and garlic are soft, add the cherry tomatoes and spinach to the pan. Cook until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. The spinach will reduce significantly in volume as it wilts. Avoid overcooking the vegetables at this stage, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
Set the vegetables aside to cool: Allowing the vegetables to cool slightly before adding them to the egg mixture prevents them from cooking the eggs prematurely and ensures even cooking in the oven. Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a separate bowl and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, crack 12 eggs: Use a large mixing bowl to ensure you have enough space to whisk the eggs and other ingredients comfortably. Crack each egg into the bowl, being careful not to include any shell fragments.
Add heavy whipping cream, salt, and pepper: Pour the heavy whipping cream into the bowl with the eggs. Add salt and pepper according to the recipe. These ingredients enhance the flavor and texture of the frittata.
Whisk until thoroughly combined: Whisk the egg mixture vigorously until the yolks and whites are fully combined and the mixture is light and frothy. Whisking incorporates air into the eggs, resulting in a fluffier frittata. Avoid over-whisking, which can make the frittata tough.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the egg mixture into the greased casserole dish: Pour the whisked egg mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. Ensure the egg mixture is distributed across the entire dish.
Sprinkle in the goat cheese and vegetables: Evenly distribute the crumbled goat cheese and sautéed vegetables over the egg mixture in the casserole dish. Try to spread them out so that every slice of frittata has a good mix of cheese and vegetables. Gently press the vegetables down into the egg mixture slightly to ensure they are submerged.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the frittata is set and golden brown on top. The frittata is done when the center is no longer jiggly and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Place on a wire rack to cool: Once baked, remove the frittata from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool slightly. Cooling allows the frittata to set further and makes it easier to slice and serve. Allow it to cool for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Slice and serve: Slice the frittata into 8 servings and serve warm or at room temperature. Frittatas are delicious served hot, warm, or even cold. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner.

Nutrition Facts

This homemade frittata is not only delicious but also a relatively healthy and nutritious meal option. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information:

Servings: 8 servings
Calories: Approximately 225 calories per serving

Per Serving (Approximate):

Protein: Around 15-18 grams (from eggs and goat cheese)
Fat: Around 15-18 grams (from eggs, heavy cream, olive oil, and goat cheese)
Carbohydrates: Around 3-5 grams (from vegetables and minimal carbs in dairy)
Fiber: Around 1-2 grams (from spinach and tomatoes)

Nutritional Highlights:

High in Protein: Eggs are a complete protein source, providing all essential amino acids. Protein is crucial for muscle building, repair, and overall satiety.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Eggs are packed with vitamins like Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, and choline, as well as minerals like selenium and riboflavin. Spinach and tomatoes are excellent sources of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and folate.
Source of Healthy Fats: Olive oil and the fat in eggs and goat cheese provide healthy monounsaturated and saturated fats, which are important for hormone production and cell function.
Lower in Carbohydrates: Compared to many breakfast or brunch options, frittatas are relatively low in carbohydrates, making them a good choice for those watching their carb intake.
Good Source of Calcium: Goat cheese contributes calcium, which is essential for bone health.

Note: These are approximate values and can vary slightly based on ingredient brands and specific measurements. For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators.

Preparation Time

One of the best things about this frittata recipe is how quick and easy it is to prepare. Here’s a breakdown of the time commitment:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
- This includes chopping the vegetables, whisking the eggs, and greasing the casserole dish. The prep time is minimal and mostly involves basic kitchen tasks.
Cook Time: 20 minutes
- This refers to the time spent sautéing the vegetables and baking the frittata in the oven. The cooking time is relatively short, making it a great option for weeknight meals.
Total Time: 35 minutes
- From start to finish, you can have a delicious and nutritious homemade frittata on the table in just about 35 minutes. This makes it an incredibly efficient and convenient meal option, especially when you’re short on time but still want a wholesome and satisfying dish.

This quick preparation time, combined with the delicious flavor and nutritional benefits, makes this frittata recipe a winner for busy individuals and families alike.

How to Serve

Frittatas are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways, making them perfect for any meal of the day. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:

For Breakfast or Brunch:

Warm Slices: Serve warm slices of frittata as a main course for breakfast or brunch. It pairs perfectly with a side of fresh fruit salad, yogurt, or toast.
Frittata Sandwiches: Cut the frittata into squares or wedges and serve them in sandwiches or breakfast wraps with whole-wheat bread, croissants, or tortillas. Add some avocado, sprouts, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra flavor and texture.
Alongside Breakfast Meats: Serve frittata alongside classic breakfast meats like bacon, sausage, or ham for a heartier brunch spread.
With a Green Salad: A light and refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the frittata beautifully.

For Lunch or Dinner:

Light Lunch: Serve a slice of frittata with a side salad or a cup of soup for a satisfying and balanced lunch.
Dinner Main Course: Frittata can be a delicious and light dinner main course. Pair it with roasted vegetables, a quinoa salad, or a crusty bread for a complete meal.
Party Appetizer: Cut the frittata into smaller squares or triangles and serve it as an appetizer at parties or gatherings. It’s a crowd-pleasing and easy-to-eat finger food.
Cold Frittata: Frittatas are delicious served cold or at room temperature as well. They are perfect for picnics, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Toppings and Accompaniments:

Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or basil for added flavor and visual appeal.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a creamy and tangy element.
Hot Sauce: For those who like a bit of spice, a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a kick.
Salsa or Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa or pico de gallo adds a vibrant and zesty flavor.
Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices complement the frittata’s texture and flavor.

Additional Tips for the Perfect Frittata

To ensure your homemade frittata is a success every time, here are five additional tips to keep in mind:

Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: When sautéing the vegetables, cook them until they are just tender-crisp. They will continue to cook in the oven with the eggs, so avoid overcooking them at this stage. Overcooked vegetables can become mushy and lose their flavor.
Season Generously: Seasoning is key to a flavorful frittata. Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper, both in the vegetable mixture and the egg mixture. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can also experiment with other herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile.
Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can make the frittata dry and rubbery. Bake it just until the center is set and no longer jiggly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.
Let it Cool Slightly Before Slicing: Allowing the frittata to cool for at least 10-15 minutes after baking makes it easier to slice and serve. It also allows the frittata to set further, preventing it from falling apart.
Get Creative with Ingredients: This recipe is a fantastic base, but feel free to get creative and customize it with your favorite ingredients. Experiment with different cheeses (cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyere), vegetables (mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus), and meats (cooked sausage, bacon, ham). Frittatas are a great way to use up leftover ingredients in your refrigerator.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about making homemade frittatas:

Q1: Can I make this frittata ahead of time?

A: Yes, frittatas are excellent make-ahead dishes. You can bake the frittata and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving. They are also delicious served cold or at room temperature, making them perfect for meal prep or picnics.

Q2: Can I freeze frittata?

A: Yes, you can freeze frittata. Allow it to cool completely, then slice it into portions and wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and then foil or place them in freezer-safe bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or reheat directly from frozen in the oven or microwave. The texture might be slightly altered after freezing, but the flavor will remain good.

Q3: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

A: Yes, you can substitute milk or half-and-half for heavy cream. However, the frittata will be less rich and creamy. Heavy cream provides a more decadent texture. Dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream or almond milk can also be used, but they will alter the flavor and texture slightly.

Q4: What other vegetables can I add to this frittata?

A: The possibilities are endless! You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, broccoli, kale, sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or any other vegetables you enjoy. Just make sure to sauté them before adding them to the egg mixture to ensure they are cooked through.

Q5: Can I make this frittata without cheese?

A: Yes, you can omit the cheese if you prefer a dairy-free frittata or simply don’t like goat cheese. The frittata will still be delicious with just the eggs and vegetables. You can also substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative if desired.