If you are craving a dish that’s both comfortingly familiar and wonderfully flavorful, the Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Frittata Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. This delightful, protein-packed breakfast or brunch option combines tender broccoli florets, savory ham, and rich cheddar cheese in a fluffy, golden egg base. Each bite offers a perfect harmony of creamy cheese, hearty ham, and fresh veggies, making it an irresistible treat any time of the day. Plus, this frittata is quick to whip up and can easily feed a family or a small gathering. You’re going to love how simple ingredients come together to create such a satisfying meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this frittata requires just a handful of straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play an important role in delivering the dish’s amazing flavor and texture.
- Olive oil: Provides a subtle fruity base to gently cook the onions without overpowering the flavors.
- Onion: Adds a sweet, aromatic depth that melts perfectly into the eggs.
- Fresh broccoli florets: Offers vibrant green color and a fresh, slightly crunchy texture to balance the dish.
- Cooked ham: Brings a smoky, salty richness that pairs wonderfully with the cheese.
- Cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey pockets of cheesy goodness that elevate every bite.
- Eggs: The fluffy, golden foundation of the frittata, binding all ingredients together.
- Whole milk: Keeps the eggs tender and creamy for the perfect mouthfeel.
- Salt and spices: A combination of salt, cayenne, and black pepper enhances and balances all the flavors.
How to Make Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Frittata Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Start by bringing 5 cups of water with 2 teaspoons of salt to a vigorous boil in a small pot. This salt is key for seasoning the broccoli as it cooks. Once the water boils, add your broccoli florets, cover immediately, and set a timer for exactly 3 minutes. This quick steam ensures the broccoli stays brightly colored and just tender enough without turning mushy. Drain it promptly without rinsing to keep all those nutrients locked in.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
Heat olive oil in an 11-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook slowly until translucent, about 5 to 8 minutes. These soft onions create a sweet flavor base that complements the savory ingredients wonderfully. If your onions finish cooking before you’re ready for the next step, just turn off the heat to avoid burning.
Step 3: Mix the Egg Base
While the onions are cooking, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, ¾ teaspoon salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper in a bowl. This mixture will create your creamy, slightly spiced custard that holds all the ingredients together in the frittata. Whisk vigorously for a uniform texture.
Step 4: Assemble in the Skillet
Spread the vibrant steamed broccoli evenly over the cooked onions in the skillet. Sprinkle the chopped ham on top, followed by chunks of cheddar cheese scattered across the surface to guarantee those melty cheese pockets in every slice.
Step 5: Cook the Frittata on the Stovetop
If you turned off the burner, turn it back on to medium and make sure your skillet is hot. Then gently pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients. Avoid stirring so the eggs can cook from the bottom up, allowing the frittata to set beautifully. Cook for about 7 to 9 minutes, until the edges firm up but the center is still slightly jiggly.
Step 6: Broil to Finish
Transfer your skillet carefully to a preheated broiler with the rack positioned about 5 inches from the heat. Broil for 2 to 5 minutes, watching closely every minute to prevent burning. The frittata is done when the top is golden brown and the eggs are fully set, with no wiggle when you gently shake the pan.
How to Serve Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Frittata Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the frittata right before serving. These fresh herbs add a pop of color and a mild herbal aroma that brightens each bite wonderfully. A light drizzle of hot sauce can also add a nice kick for those who like a little heat.
Side Dishes
This frittata pairs beautifully with lightly toasted crusty bread, a crisp side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, or even some roasted new potatoes. These sides add a nice balance of textures and flavors, making your meal feel complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch party, slice the frittata into wedges and place each on a vibrant plate garnished with extra cheese and fresh greens. You could also serve it in individual small cast iron skillets for a cozy, rustic presentation that’s sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The frittata will keep fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick meals later in the week.
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze your frittata, cut it into portions first. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen frittata sections can be kept for up to 2 months and work well for ready-made breakfasts or snacks.
Reheating
Reheat leftover frittata in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a sprinkle of cheese before reheating can revive that gooey, melty texture you love. Avoid overcooking to keep the eggs tender.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! While broccoli adds great texture and nutrition, you can swap it for spinach, asparagus, or bell peppers. Just adjust cooking times to prevent them from becoming soggy or overcooked.
Is it okay to use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like mozzarella, gruyere, or feta. Each will bring a unique flavor profile, but cheddar’s sharpness loves the ham and broccoli combination especially.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! This frittata is naturally gluten-free since it uses eggs and fresh ingredients without any flour or breadcrumbs. Just double-check your ham to ensure it’s gluten-free.
What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?
You can use any oven-safe skillet or a non-stick frying pan that transitions to broiler use safely. Just keep an eye on the cooking process to prevent sticking or burning.
How do I know when the frittata is fully cooked?
When the edges are firm and pulling away slightly from the pan, and the top is browned under the broiler without wiggle in the center, you’re good to go. The eggs should be set but still moist and tender.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about a homemade Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Frittata Recipe, and I can’t recommend it enough. It’s quick, comforting, and endlessly versatile, making it a brilliant choice for busy mornings or laid-back brunches. Once you try it, you’ll see why this recipe keeps finding its way onto my table. So go ahead, grab those simple ingredients, and enjoy a slice of cheesy, eggy goodness with your loved ones!
Print
Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Frittata Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Frittata is a delicious, protein-packed breakfast or brunch option featuring tender broccoli florets, savory ham, and sharp cheddar cheese. Cooked gently on the stovetop and finished under the broiler for a golden top, this frittata offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures in a quick 25-minute meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, chopped (or half a large onion)
- 1 crown fresh broccoli, florets separated
Proteins & Dairy
- 1 & 1/2 cups cooked ham, chopped (about one ham steak)
- 6 ounces cheddar cheese, cut into chunks
- 9 eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
Pantry Items & Spices
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 3/4 teaspoon salt (for frittata)
- 2 teaspoons salt (for boiling water)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Boil Water: Add 5 cups of water to a small pot and season with 2 teaspoons of salt. Bring to a rolling boil.
- Sauté Onions: Heat olive oil in an 11-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5-8 minutes. Turn off heat if finished early.
- Cook Broccoli: Add broccoli florets to the boiling water. Cover immediately and set timer for 3 minutes. Drain broccoli without rinsing to retain flavor and texture.
- Mix Eggs: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, 3/4 teaspoon salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper until combined.
- Preheat Broiler: Set your oven broiler on and position the rack about 5 inches from the flame for optimal browning later.
- Assemble Frittata Base: Spread the blanched broccoli evenly over the cooked onions in the skillet. Top with chopped ham and then scatter chunks of cheddar cheese over the top.
- Heat Pan: If the burner was turned off, turn back on to medium heat and ensure the pan is hot before adding eggs.
- Add Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture over the ingredients in the skillet without stirring. Cook undisturbed for 7-9 minutes until the edges begin to set.
- Broil to Finish: Transfer the skillet to the preheated broiler. Broil for 2-5 minutes, checking every minute. The frittata is done when the top is browned and eggs are fully set with no wobble.
Notes
- Use a cast iron skillet or any oven-safe pan to transfer from stovetop to broiler easily.
- Do not overcook broccoli in boiling water; 3 minutes keeps it tender-crisp and flavorful.
- Keep a close eye during broiling as the frittata can brown quickly and burn if left unattended.
- Whole milk adds creaminess, but you can substitute with 2% milk or half-and-half for richer texture.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your heat preference or omit if sensitive to spice.
