Ham and Cheese Frittata

A rich and fluffy ham and cheese frittata is a delightful dish that can brighten up your breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. This versatile recipe showcases the delicious combination of savory ham and creamy cheese, making it a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting guests or simply treating yourself, this frittata is quick to prepare and packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this tasty dish in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients – Customize your frittata with different vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Any Meal – Enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even dinner; it’s suitable for any occasion!
• Leftover Friendly – A great way to use up leftover ham or other cooked proteins without compromising taste.
• Nutritious Option – Loaded with protein from eggs and ham, plus vitamins from fresh vegetables.

Tools and Preparation

To make your ham and cheese frittata successfully, gather the right tools. Using the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process and perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick skillet (oven-safe)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick skillet – Prevents sticking and makes it easy to cook the frittata evenly.
• Mixing bowl – Provides ample space for whisking the eggs and combining ingredients thoroughly.
• Whisk – Essential for breaking down the eggs to create a fluffy texture in your frittata.

Ingredients

Eggs and Dairy

• 6 eggs
• ½ cup whole milk
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper

Vegetables

• 1 small onion (diced)
• 1 bell pepper (chopped)

Protein and Cheese

• 4 ounces ham (diced, or other cooked and diced protein)
• 4 ounces Monterey jack cheese (freshly shredded (1 cup shredded))

How to Make Ham and Cheese Frittata

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375° F. This ensures that the frittata cooks evenly when placed inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture

1. Crack 6 eggs into a medium-sized mixing bowl.
2. Add ½ cup whole milk, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper.
3. Whisk well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat 2 teaspoons olive oil in an oven-safe, nonstick skillet over medium heat.
2. Once hot, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until translucent.
3. Add the chopped bell pepper. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until soft.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Spread the sautéed vegetables evenly in the bottom of the skillet using a wooden spoon or silicone spatula.
2. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables.
3. Evenly distribute the diced ham over the eggs.
4. Sprinkle freshly shredded Monterey jack cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake the Frittata

Place your skillet in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes until just set in the center but may still jiggle slightly.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from oven and let cool for about 10 minutes before slicing into wedges. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious ham and cheese frittata!

How to Serve Ham and Cheese Frittata

Serving a ham and cheese frittata can elevate any meal, from breakfast to dinner. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

For Breakfast

• Fresh Fruit – Serve with seasonal fruits like berries or melon for a refreshing contrast.
• Toast – Pair with whole-grain toast for a satisfying crunch that complements the soft frittata.

For Brunch

• Mixed Greens Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the richness of the frittata.
• Pastries – Include flaky pastries for a touch of indulgence that pairs well with eggs.

For Dinner

• Roasted Vegetables – Serve alongside roasted veggies for a hearty, nutritious option.
• Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges make for a comforting side that everyone will love.

How to Perfect Ham and Cheese Frittata

Perfecting your ham and cheese frittata is easy with these helpful tips. Follow these guidelines to achieve the best results every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and cheese enhance flavor and texture, making your frittata more delicious.
• Don’t Overcook – Bake until just set; overcooking can lead to a dry frittata. Aim for slight jiggle in the center.
• Even Layering – Spread vegetables evenly before pouring in the egg mixture for consistent cooking throughout.
• Experiment with Add-ins – Try different cheeses or veggies to create unique flavor combinations tailored to your taste.

Best Side Dishes for Ham and Cheese Frittata

Pairing sides with your ham and cheese frittata can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Sliced Avocado – Creamy avocado adds healthy fats and complements the savory flavors of the frittata.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Greek yogurt layered with granola and fruit offers a refreshing sweet contrast.
3. Sautéed Spinach – Lightly sautéed spinach adds nutrients while enhancing the meal’s color.
4. Crispy Bacon – The salty crunch of bacon is a classic pairing that elevates breakfast or brunch.
5. Herbed Quinoa – A side of fluffy quinoa infused with herbs provides an earthy base that works well with eggs.
6. Tomato Salsa – Fresh salsa brings acidity and zest, which brightens up the dish beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a ham and cheese frittata can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not whisking eggs thoroughly: When you don’t mix the eggs well with milk and seasonings, it can lead to an uneven texture. Whisk until fully combined for a fluffy frittata.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Aim for a soft texture without losing their shape by sautéing just until tender.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese may not melt well and could affect flavor. Always opt for freshly shredded Monterey Jack or your favorite cheese for the best taste.
• Skipping the cooling step: Cutting into your frittata too soon can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to cool for 10 minutes before slicing to maintain its structure.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season properly can make your dish bland. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste preferences.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover ham and cheese frittata in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Ham and Cheese Frittata

• Wrap slices of frittata tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Ham and Cheese Frittata

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and place frittata slices on a baking sheet until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes).
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power in short increments (30 seconds), checking frequently until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making a ham and cheese frittata.

How do I know when my Ham and Cheese Frittata is done?

The frittata is done when the center is just set but may still jiggle slightly. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted.

Can I customize my Ham and Cheese Frittata?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables, herbs, or types of meat according to your taste preferences.

What type of ham works best in a Ham and Cheese Frittata?

Diced cooked ham is ideal, but feel free to use any cooked protein like chicken or turkey for variety.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this ham and cheese frittata is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any flour or gluten ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This ham and cheese frittata is deliciously rich, fluffy, and versatile enough for any meal of the day. With easy customization options, you can adapt it to suit your tastes perfectly. Give it a try for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner!