There are a few words needed to describe this recipe for my Broccoli Cheddar Frittata. Here they are: simple, easy, fast, delicious, filling, satisfying, yummy. If this sounds good to you, stick with me, and let's make this broccoli cheddar frittata for a perfect breakfast!
This recipe is: Low Carb, Keto, Gluten Free and Vegetarian
Table of Contents
8 Reasons to Love This Recipe
Here are eight reasons why you will love this broccoli frittata recipe:
- Super-easy to make any day of the week.
- Endless flavor combinations to try out.
- Great for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner.
- Low-carb and keto-friendly, but you'd never guess.
- Kid-friendly with the classic broccoli and cheddar combo.
- Perfect for meal prep, reheat well, or enjoy cold.
- Economical with simple, basic ingredients.
- Packed with protein from eggs and cheese.
Broccoli Cheddar Frittata: Breakfast Is Served!
Eggs. What a wonderful ingredient! Eggs are one of my favorite foods in the world. Why? They are easy to use and forgiving at the same time. They also come in their own natural containers, which is super cool.
Good eggs also taste FANTASTIC. I mean truly wonderful. When we get back to the States, we will be working hard to find local farmers selling farm-fresh eggs. I never knew what a "good egg" was until we moved to France.
Once we moved here, I found a local vegetable market that also sells eggs. Farm fresh. My first bite = mind blown. See if you can find any near where you live. It will make a huge difference compared to commercially produced eggs.
Since the eggs are so good here, I make a lot of frittatas. One of my favorites is the broccoli cheddar frittata. I typically have a lot of sautéed broccoli made in the fridge, so all I need to do is heat up the oven and we're in business.
The flavors are simple and precise. Broccoli loves cheddar and cheddar loves broccoli. Add in the eggs, and we have the perfect breakfast, ready to go in no time flat.
How Is a Frittata Made?
There are a number of different ways to make a frittata. My favorite method is cooking the frittata in the oven. I find that with this method, the bottom layer of the egg doesn't get too thick and is leathery. Leathery frittatas are no fun.
Here are a couple different methods that you can use to make delicious frittatas:
- Stovetop frittata: For this method, you cook the veggies first, then add in the egg mixture. Continue to cook the frittata on the stove, stirring it, until the eggs are lightly set. After that, you cover it and allow it to cook through. Simple enough, right?
- Slow cooker frittata: First, cook the veggies in a pan and combine with the eggs, just like we do when making a baked frittata. Next, add to a slow cooker and wait. I never have the time for this or have my slow cooker ready to go, but it looks good.
- In the oven: First, you start the frittata on the stove and then move it into the oven to finish cooking. It is simple and delicious.
With kids running around in the morning, I like to whip up my broccoli cheddar frittata in the oven without even thinking about it. It takes minutes to put together, and then it is set and forgotten.
Is Broccoli Cheddar Frittata Low-Carb?
Yes, broccoli cheddar frittata is low-carb. As for this recipe, it contains only 6 g net carbs per serving (which is half of this frittata). With such low carb content, this recipe provides a great way to start your day.
Check out my in-depth article on "Is Broccoli Low Carb" and make informed choices in your low carb journey.
Broccoli Cheddar Frittata Ingredient List
Below is a list of ingredients you'll need to make broccoli cheese frittata:
Making the Broccoli
- 3 tablespoons water
- 1.5 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes
For the Broccoli Cheddar Frittata
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup cooked broccoli, chopped
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ cup cheddar, shredded
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
Ingredient Substitutions
Here are some easy substitutions you can use for the ingredients in the broccoli and cheddar frittata recipe:
- Olive oil: Use avocado oil, coconut oil, or MCT oil.
- Red pepper flakes: Use smoked paprika for less heat or cayenne powder for more.
- Cheddar: You could use Monterey Jack cheese, Colby Jack, or even shredded Colby without much difference in flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Use ghee or clarified butter.
Additional Ingredients
Take your broccoli and cheese frittata to the next level with these tasty additions that pair perfectly with the main ingredients:
- Vegetables: Add in some roasted asparagus, sautéed onions, sautéed mushrooms, or even some flash-seared bell peppers… this recipe just loves it all.
- Fresh herbs: Feel free to garnish with sliced chives, chopped parsley, or even a chiffonade of basil.
- Protein: Over the years, I’ve added all kinds of proteins, including my homemade bacon bits, some sage breakfast sausage, and my surprisingly simple chorizo recipe. You can even just chop up some sliced ham to make things really easy.
Note: These ingredients are optional and are not included in the broccoli cheddar frittata recipe.
More Frittata Variation Ideas
So, I have a couple of tasty ideas that you can try if you want to make something other than the cheesy broccoli frittata. Here are 10 different frittata ideas that will all taste FANTASTIC:
- Asparagus, peas, and smoked gouda
- Roasted red peppers, arugula, and bacon
- Italian sausage, sundried tomatoes, and kale
- Bacon, arugula, and tomato (the BLT frittata)
- Brussels sprouts, shallots, and bacon
- Chorizo, sage, and cherry tomatoes
- Butternut squash (roasted), Italian sausage, and leeks
- Ham, leeks, and arugula
- Zucchini, onion, and garlic
- Goat's cheese, asparagus, and shallots
Cooking Tools
Below is the list of cooking tools you'll need to make easy broccoli and cheese frittata:
- Small pan with a lid
- Ovenproof pan (8 or 9 inches, non-stick)
- Medium bowl
- Whisk or fork (for mixing eggs)
- Cheese grater
- Spatula
- Knife and cutting board (for chopping broccoli)
How To Make Broccoli Cheddar Frittata: Complete Cooking Guide
Cooking Method
- Sautéing
- Baking
- Broiling
Preparation Steps
- Gather all the tools and ingredients to make broccoli cheddar frittata.
- Chop cooked broccoli.
- Shred cheddar cheese.
Cooking Instructions
For the Sautéed Broccoli
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Add all the ingredients for the broccoli to a small pan with a lid. Cover and place over high heat. Cook for five minutes, stirring occasionally. When tender and lightly browned, remove from the heat. Chop the finished broccoli mixture.
For the Broccoli Cheddar Frittata
- You will need an 8 or 9-inch non-stick ovenproof pan. Mix all the ingredients for the frittata EXCEPT the butter in a bowl.
- Heat the butter in your pan over medium-high heat. When it has melted, coat the interior of the pan with the butter. When the butter is bubbling, add in the frittata mixture. Cook until the edges start to bubble, and then move to the oven.
- Cook in the oven for 15 minutes. The eggs should be set. Turn the oven to broil and cook for another 3-4 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and carefully invert the pan onto a plate. Cut and enjoy hot, lukewarm, or cold!
Step 1: Gather up these simple ingredients. For a thicker frittata, use 2 more eggs.
Step 2: Saute the broccoli first. Adding raw broccoli to the frittata will just not taste good.
Step 3: Make sure that you chop up the broccoli too. This way it will be incorporated into the entire frittata! Up next, toss it in the pan… cook for a couple minutes and then into the oven! Super easy.
💡 My Pro Tip
For a thicker frittata, add two more eggs. If you choose to do this, you must also add more seasoning; otherwise, the frittata will turn out bland.
If you want a more creamy consistency, add a quarter cup of heavy cream. The cream will retain the moisture of the eggs, making a more luscious frittata.
Want it to be cheesy? Add another ½ cups of cheddar. I often hold off on adding the cheddar to the raw egg mixture and wait until the frittata is almost set. Then, I add the extra cheddar on top. It is just so yummy.
How To Avoid The Frittata Sticking to The Pan?
To ensure that the frittata (most have cheese that likes to stick!) slides easily out of the pan... follow these tips:
- Use a good, oven-proof, non-stick pan. If everything sticks in your pan when cooking other recipes, the frittata will stick, too.
- Make sure that you coat the entire pan with the melted butter. I just roll it around and up the sides of the pan after it is melted.
- Don't scorch the bottom of the frittata. Remove it from the stove when you see the edge start to bubble!
- When it is done cooking, run a rubber spatula around the edges immediately to help release it from the pan.
- Slide out easily and enjoy!
⏲️ Time-Saving Tips
- Use pre-shredded cheese to save prep time.
- Chop broccoli ahead and store in the fridge.
- Use leftover cooked broccoli for quick assembly.
What To Serve With Broccoli Cheddar Frittata?
Broccoli egg frittata is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious food pairings:
- Arugula Mushroom Salad: The peppery arugula and earthy mushrooms complement the savory flavors of the frittata. Add a light vinaigrette for extra zest.
- Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup adds comforting flavors that contrast nicely with the cheesy frittata. Perfect for a cozy meal.
- Pickled Onions: Tangy pickled onions add a refreshing bite that balances the richness of the frittata with broccoli. They're a great palate cleanser between bites.
- French Frisée Salad: The crisp frisée lettuce paired with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy frittata.
Storage And Reheating Instructions
Storage Tips
Stores in the fridge for 3-5 days in an airtight container. After that, the eggs tend to have textural issues.
Reheating Tips
Reheating a frittata can be tricky. Here are a couple of ways to reheat:
- In the oven: Preheat your oven (or toaster oven) to 300°F (150°C). Heat the frittata for 10-12 minutes until heated through. Note: Heating in the oven may ruin the texture of the frittata.
- On the stove: Add the frittata to a non-stick pan. Cover and heat over medium-low heat for 6-7 minutes or until heated through.
- In the microwave: Heat on medium power for 3-4 minutes or until hot. Note: This may result in a rubbery texture.
Note: I would not recommend freezing a frittata as it can affect the texture of the eggs.
Recipe Conclusion
Your savory, cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Frittata recipe is ready to delight any mealtime! Whether it's a leisurely brunch or a quick weekday dinner, this best frittata recipe delivers on taste and simplicity. With its creamy eggs, sharp cheddar, and tender broccoli, every bite is a burst of rich flavor. Don't forget to try out different variations by adding your favorite veggies or extra cheese on top.
What are some of your favorite frittata combinations? Add them to the comments and I'll make it sometime soon! Enjoy and happy eating. Please write in the comments any questions or suggestions you may have. You can also find us on Facebook or Instagram.
More Breakfast Recipes
Looking for more breakfast recipes? Check out these:
FAQs
Nope. They are not. Simply put, a frittata is made without a crust. A quiche has a pastry crust.
You can tell when the frittata is done by pressing your finger lightly in the center. If liquid is present or it feels like jelly, it is not finished cooking. If it springs back lightly under your finger, it is ready to eat.
If you are cooking on the stove, use a special skillet for frittata recipes, which comes with a top and bottom in a set. This makes flipping the frittata much easier. When cooking the baked broccoli frittata in the oven, it is best to use a non-stick oven-proof pan with a metal handle. Plastic is never a good idea in the oven.
Broccoli Cheddar Frittata
Ingredients
Making the Broccoli
- 3 tablespoons water
- 1.5 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes
For the Broccoli Cheddar Frittata
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup cooked broccoli chopped
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ cup cheddar shredded
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Gather all the tools and ingredients to make broccoli cheddar frittata.
- Chop cooked broccoli.
- Shred cheddar cheese.
Cooking Instructions
For the Sautéed Broccoli
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Add all the ingredients for the broccoli to a small pan with a lid. Cover and place over high heat. Cook for five minutes, stirring occasionally. When tender and lightly browned, remove from the heat. Chop the finished broccoli mixture.
For the Broccoli Cheddar Frittata
- You will need an 8 or 9-inch non-stick ovenproof pan. Mix all the ingredients for the frittata EXCEPT the butter in a bowl.
- Heat the butter in your pan over medium-high heat. When it has melted, coat the interior of the pan with the butter. When the butter is bubbling, add in the frittata mixture. Cook until the edges start to bubble, and then move to the oven.
- Cook in the oven for 15 minutes. The eggs should be set. Turn the oven to broil and cook for another 3-4 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and carefully invert the pan onto a plate. Cut and enjoy hot, lukewarm, or cold!
Notes
Nutrition
“This website provides approximate nutrition data and information for convenience and as a courtesy only.”
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30 Responses
I love frittatas! I agree, fresh farm eggs are definitely better! I think broccoli is a great ingredient especially with the cheddar. Yum.
Hey Elaine:
There's a huge difference between fresh farm and store-bought eggs. I never thought they could taste so different! Thank you for writing.
Have a fantastic day in the kitchen!
Scott
This looks awesome! I've been buying free range, organic eggs for some time but I found a new supplier last week and their eggs were something else! The colour of the yolks was out of this world, and they tasted great, so with you on buying good quality eggs 😉
Hi Michelle:
You're right, they're a lot tastier than any store-bought eggs I've eaten.
Thank you for writing.
Have a wonderful day!
Scott
Farm fresh is always better. These Frittats look amazing.
Hi Chava:
I'm all for farm-fresh.
Thank you for stopping by and have a delicious day in the kitchen!
Scott
We only buy organic, free range eggs from the Farmers Market here in Canada, but still, the eggs that I buy in Italy are something else. Your frittata looks beautiful, it seems something easy to do but it can be tricky and your flavors, and texture, is spot on!
Hi Nicoletta:
Thank you for posting. Did you try it?
Have an awesome day!
Scott
This sounds fantastic! I completely agree about the difference it makes when you use farm fresh eggs. And love all the instructional tips! Thank you.
Thank you, Maria. So nice of you to write your thoughts on this divine frittata.
Take care and happy eating!
Scott
Broccoli is seriously one of my favorite foods! Like, I'm the person at the Chinese buffet piling my plate with just broccoli! And a broccoli and cheddar combo is nearly impossible to resist. Totally agree about baking the frittata. Leathery eggs are awful.
Hi Kitty:
Never heard of anyone being such a big fan of broccoli. Thank you for checking out this recipe.
Hope you're having a wonderful day!
Scott
Love this recipe and loved reading your story! Pangs of jealousy that you're living the life in France! Soak. It. Up!
Hi Carol:
I came back to the States in the meantime. But we're moving to France for good this summer. So... I will soak. It. Up. Again!
Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
Hope you have a fantastic day and happy eating!
Scott
Frittatas are such a good way to use eggs. I can eat so many eggs that way, and not even realize how many eggs I've eaten ;D I'd definitely make these with the 2 extra eggs you mention in the recipe... ha!
Hi Tina:
Eggs are one of my favorite foods. But extra eggs... yum!
Thanks for stopping by and have a delightful day in the kitchen!
Scott
I have recently started following your blog after meeting your wife. It is really nice to be able to make recipes with ingredients I can find locally here in France. Very cool!
I've never made a frittata before but have eaten them in Spain. This was so delicious. I made it with the extra eggs and it was perfect for two of us. Perfect flavor combinations.
Thanks so much!
Hi Heather:
So nice to hear you guys loved this tasty frittata.
Thank you for writing and I hope you're doing well!
Scott
I just roasted a bunch of broccoli and I wish I had some leftover to make this! One of my favorite combos - broccoli and cheese. Such a great idea to make a frittata with it 🙂
Hi April:
So glad to hear you like this delicious frittata.
Thank you for stopping by and have a delicious day in the kitchen!
Scott
Eggs form a reasonable part of our diet as we have ducks and chickens running around the garden, they joys of fresh eggs every day is wonderful... Having said that I don't cook anywhere near enough frittatas, this sounds and looks delicious.
Hi Brian:
You're so lucky to have farm-fresh eggs right in your backyard- I envy you.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and have a great day!
Scott
I love frittatas and farm eggs are always so much better! Thank you for sharing all those amazing ideas as well.
Hi Richa:
Thank you for taking the time to write.
Have a fantastic day in the kitchen!
Scott
What a lish-looking low carb breakfast or brunch dish! Found you via Twitter, and so glad I did! Pinned, and thanks!
--G
Hi Ginger:
Thank you for checking out the recipe. I love myself a good frittata anytime!
Have a wonderful day and happy eating!
Scott
Just made this frittata its in the oven. Added more cheese if course and 2 cups of broccoli instead of 1 1/2. UT was going bad. Lol. Thank you for the recipe. I started this way if life 11/1/2022 and have lost 22 lbs so far. I feel so much better on this eating plan, keto. Thank you again.