If you’re looking for a simple yet wonderfully satisfying dish that bursts with fresh flavors and a comforting, cheesy texture, then this Zucchini & Cheddar Frittata Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to. Packed with tender zucchini slices, melty cheddar, and a light, fluffy egg base, this frittata brings together wholesome ingredients in a way that feels both gourmet and incredibly approachable. Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner, this recipe will have you savoring every warm, cheesy bite and eager to whip it up again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Zucchini & Cheddar Frittata Recipe shines because of its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that come together effortlessly. From the silky zucchini to the sharp cheddar, every element is essential to making this dish truly special.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for sautéing the vegetables to enhance their natural sweetness and add richness.
- 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced: Brings a mild, fresh flavor and tender texture that holds up beautifully when cooked.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the overall taste.
- 6 large eggs: The foundation of the frittata, creating that light, fluffy structure everyone loves.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into creamy pockets, giving the dish its irresistible sharp and savory notes.
- 1/4 cup milk or cream: Ensures a tender and moist frittata without weighing it down.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out the best flavors in all the ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional): Adds a fragrant, herbaceous note that complements the veggies beautifully.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or basil (optional, for garnish): A bright finishing touch that makes the dish feel fresh and inviting.
How to Make Zucchini & Cheddar Frittata Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that by the time your frittata is ready to bake, the oven will be at the perfect temperature for even cooking and a golden top.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Toss in the thinly sliced zucchini and finely chopped onion. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until the veggies soften and start to brown slightly. This caramelization adds a wonderful depth of flavor, and seasoning here with salt and pepper enhances those natural tastes.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
While the vegetables are cooking, whisk together the eggs, milk (or cream), shredded cheddar cheese, oregano if you’re using it, plus a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will be the creamy, cheesy heart of your frittata.
Step 4: Combine Eggs and Vegetables
Pour the egg mixture right over your sautéed zucchini and onion in the skillet. Gently stir to combine everything, then spread it out evenly across the pan. This step ensures every bite is packed with balanced flavor and texture.
Step 5: Cook on the Stovetop
Place the skillet back on medium-low heat for 3 to 4 minutes. This gentle cooking lets the edges start to set, creating a nice base before the oven finishing step. It helps the frittata hold together beautifully once baked.
Step 6: Bake the Frittata
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. The frittata is ready when the eggs are fully set and the top is lightly golden. This final bake creates that signature delicate yet firm texture you expect from a perfect frittata.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, let your frittata cool just a little. Slice it into generous wedges and get ready to indulge in the warm, cheesy goodness. Garnish with fresh herbs if you have them on hand for an extra burst of flavor and color.
How to Serve Zucchini & Cheddar Frittata Recipe
Garnishes
Adding freshly chopped parsley or basil not only brightens the look of your frittata but also adds a fresh herbal aroma that balances the rich cheddar perfectly. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper can elevate the dish further, giving it that restaurant-quality finish at home.
Side Dishes
This frittata pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon or vinaigrette, offering a refreshing contrast. Roasted potatoes or crusty bread are also fantastic companions that turn this dish into a hearty, complete meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch parties or casual dinners, slice your frittata into smaller squares for easy, bite-sized portions. You can also serve it family-style straight from the skillet for a cozy, inviting presentation that encourages sharing and conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover frittata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It retains its flavor and texture well, making for an easy grab-and-go meal the next day or a quick snack.
Freezing
If you’d like to keep your frittata longer, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen frittata can last up to 2 months and is perfect for meal prepping your breakfasts or lunches.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop your slice in the microwave for a minute or two or warm it in a low oven until heated through. This helps maintain the texture and flavor without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of cheddar?
Absolutely! While cheddar adds a wonderful sharpness, you can experiment with mozzarella for a milder flavor or feta for a tangy twist. Each cheese gives a unique character to your frittata.
Is it necessary to bake the frittata after cooking on the stovetop?
Baking finishes cooking the eggs evenly and helps develop that golden crust on top, which you won’t get by stovetop alone. So yes, the oven step is important for the perfect texture.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free milk or cream substitute and swap cheddar for a plant-based cheese to suit your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
How thin should I slice the zucchini?
Thin slices about 1/8 inch thick work best because they cook quickly and meld nicely into the egg mixture without adding too much moisture.
Can I add other vegetables to this frittata?
Definitely! Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms all make great additions. Just sauté them along with the zucchini and onion for a personalized touch.
Final Thoughts
This Zucchini & Cheddar Frittata Recipe is one of those simple pleasures that brings warmth and comfort to your table with minimal fuss. It’s a reliable classic that never fails to impress, whether you’re sharing it over a lazy weekend brunch or looking for a quick, wholesome meal any day of the week. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
Print
Zucchini & Cheddar Frittata Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Zucchini & Cheddar Frittata is a delicious and simple egg-based dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner. Featuring sautéed zucchini and onions combined with creamy cheddar cheese and herbs, this frittata is cooked first on the stovetop and then baked to golden perfection for a fluffy and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
Garnish
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil), chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the frittata after initial stovetop cooking.
- Cook the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced zucchini and chopped onion, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until soft and starting to brown. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, shredded cheddar cheese, dried oregano if using, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will give the frittata a creamy and flavorful texture.
- Combine Eggs and Vegetables: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sautéed zucchini and onions in the skillet. Stir gently to distribute the ingredients, then spread the mixture evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the Frittata on Stovetop: Cook the skillet over medium-low heat for 3-4 minutes until the edges just begin to set, creating a firm base before baking.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is lightly golden brown, ensuring a fluffy and cooked-through frittata.
- Serve: Remove the frittata from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Slice into wedges and garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added freshness and color before serving.
Notes
- Use an oven-safe skillet to go seamlessly from stovetop to oven.
- For a richer flavor, substitute milk with cream.
- Fresh herbs add brightness, but are optional.
- Check the frittata at 10 minutes to avoid overcooking; oven times may vary.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and served cold or reheated.
