If you’re looking for a breakfast, brunch, or even light dinner that feels both comforting and elegant, the Broccolini Frittata with Bacon and Parmesan Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish brings together tender broccolini, crispy bacon, and the nutty sharpness of Parmesan, all bound in a rich, fluffy egg custard. It’s the perfect way to enjoy fresh veggies with a flavorful punch, and it’s simple enough to whip up for any occasion. Trust me, once you try this frittata, it will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients just right is key to making this Broccolini Frittata with Bacon and Parmesan Recipe a showstopper. Each component is selected to boost flavor, texture, and color, making the final dish a balanced masterpiece that’s as pretty as it is delicious.
- 8 large eggs: The base of the frittata, eggs give it that lovely, fluffy structure.
- 1/3 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess to the egg mixture for a tender bite.
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt: Enhances the richness and helps maintain moistness.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: A subtle tang that amps up the overall flavor depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Just a pinch to warm up the flavor profile without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential seasoning to bring all the flavors alive.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
- 1 pound broccolini, trimmed: A tender green that brightens the dish with freshness and a slight crunch.
- 2 slices bacon, chopped: Crispy, smoky, and utterly irresistible.
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced: Provides a sweet, caramelized base note.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For a fragrant garlicky punch.
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: Used for sautéing and adding healthy fats.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a cozy smoky warmth that pairs beautifully with the bacon.
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds a creamy, salty contrast to the other ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon): Brightens the dish with a fresh citrusy note.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives: A mild onion flavor that adds color and freshness.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon: Aromatic and slightly sweet, it rounds out the herbaceous layer.
How to Make Broccolini Frittata with Bacon and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Blanch the Broccolini
Start by heating a large pot of salted water until it reaches a rolling boil. Toss in the trimmed broccolini and let them cook for exactly 2 minutes. This quick blanching keeps them crisp, vibrant, and full of life. Transfer them immediately to an ice-water bath to stop cooking and lock in that gorgeous green color. After a few minutes, drain and pat dry, then chop into 1-inch pieces. This step preserves the freshness and texture that makes the broccolini pop in every bite.
Step 2: Crisp the Bacon
While the broccolini cools, heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. Cook until the pieces turn nice and crispy, releasing those wonderful smoky flavors. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, keeping that bacon fat in the skillet—it’s liquid gold for flavor.
Step 3: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together the eggs, whole milk, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, nutmeg, kosher salt, and black pepper until completely smooth. This mixture is the heart of the Broccolini Frittata with Bacon and Parmesan Recipe and ensures a creamy, tender texture once baked. The Dijon and Greek yogurt add layers of complexity and richness that make every forkful sing.
Step 4: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Using the skillet with the bacon fat, warm it up over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil if it looks dry, then throw in the thinly sliced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions soften and start to turn golden and sweet. Stir in the minced garlic and smoked paprika, letting them cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a deliciously aromatic foundation that infuses the whole dish.
Step 5: Combine and Warm Ingredients
Mix in the chopped, blanched broccolini and crispy bacon to the skillet. Let everything warm together for 2 minutes to marry the flavors. Then reduce the heat to low and pour the silky egg mixture over the veggie-bacon combo. Tilt the pan carefully to spread the eggs evenly. Stir gently for around 30 seconds to blend everything just right. Sprinkle the feta cheese, lemon zest, chives, and tarragon on top—these add freshness and a slight tang that lifts the dish to new heights.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide your skillet into a preheated 350°F oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep a close eye: the edges should be set, but the center should still have a little jiggle—it’s the secret to ensuring a creamy texture without drying out. Overbaking can make the frittata tough, so trust your instincts and check frequently toward the end.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the frittata rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time lets the residual heat finish the cooking gently, making slicing cleaner and easier. Run a flexible spatula around the edges to loosen, then transfer to a cutting board and slice into beautiful wedges. A final sprinkle of fresh chives on top adds a lovely pop of color and flavor. Serve warm or at room temperature for a delightful experience every time.
How to Serve Broccolini Frittata with Bacon and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
Freshness is everything when serving this frittata. I love adding a sprinkle of extra chopped chives or tarragon to brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise. A few shavings of Parmesan or a light drizzle of good quality olive oil can also create a glossy, inviting finish. Lemon wedges on the side allow guests to add an optional zingy squeeze.
Side Dishes
This Broccolini Frittata with Bacon and Parmesan Recipe pairs wonderfully with a simple mixed-green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, providing a crisp counterpoint to the rich frittata. For heartier meals, roasted potatoes or a warm baguette with herb butter make fantastic accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the platter—serve the frittata in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets to impress your guests. It also works great chilled and sliced thinly as an elegant appetizer at brunch parties. For picnics, wrap slices in parchment paper with herbs for handy, portable bites full of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of the Broccolini Frittata with Bacon and Parmesan Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it well covered preserves moisture and prevents the flavors from fading. Just reheat gently to enjoy again without losing that delicate texture.
Freezing
If you want to save your frittata for later, it freezes beautifully. Slice into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil or place in freezer-safe containers. It can stay frozen for up to 2 months, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeks.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. Warm slices in a low oven at 300°F or microwave on medium power until heated through but still tender. Avoid overheating to keep the frittata from drying out—a gentle warming is key to reviving its moist, creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular broccoli instead of broccolini?
Absolutely! While broccolini has a sweeter, more delicate stalk, regular broccoli works well too. Just chop it into smaller pieces and blanch a bit longer to soften before adding to the frittata.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Broccolini Frittata with Bacon and Parmesan Recipe?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon and increase the feta or add other cheeses like mozzarella or goat cheese. You can also use smoked paprika and a dash of liquid smoke for some smoky depth.
What’s the best skillet to use for baking the frittata?
An oven-safe cast iron or nonstick skillet around 10 inches in diameter works perfectly. Cast iron especially helps with even heat distribution and gives the edges a lovely golden crust.
Can I make this frittata dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, swap the whole milk and Greek yogurt for coconut or almond milk, and omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative. The flavor will be different but still delicious.
How long can I leave the frittata at room temperature?
It’s best to serve the frittata within 2 hours of cooking if kept at room temperature. If you plan to keep it longer, refrigerate to keep it safe and fresh.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so satisfying about a warm slice of this Broccolini Frittata with Bacon and Parmesan Recipe — it’s cozy, vibrant, and packed with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s a dish that promises happiness on a plate. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how effortlessly it becomes a favorite in your rotation, much like it is in mine!
Print
Broccolini Frittata with Bacon and Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Broccolini Frittata with Bacon and Parmesan is a flavorful, protein-packed breakfast or brunch dish combining tender broccolini, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese. The frittata is made with a blend of eggs, Greek yogurt, and Dijon mustard for a velvety texture, then baked to perfection with aromatic herbs and lemon zest for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Ingredients
Egg Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- 1/3 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Vegetables and Meat
- 1 pound broccolini, trimmed
- 2 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon
Instructions
- Blanch Broccolini: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Add the trimmed broccolini and cook for exactly 2 minutes to soften while retaining vibrant color. Immediately transfer broccolini to an ice-water bath to stop cooking, then drain and pat dry. Chop into 1-inch pieces.
- Cook Bacon: In an oven-safe skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon and cook until crisp. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess fat. Reserve bacon fat in skillet.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, nutmeg, kosher salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined for a creamy texture.
- Sauté Aromatics: Using the skillet with bacon fat (add olive oil if needed), warm over medium heat. Add sliced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and smoked paprika; cook for an additional minute until fragrant and golden.
- Combine Vegetables and Bacon: Add the blanched, chopped broccolini and cooked bacon to the skillet. Stir to mix and warm for 2 minutes. Reduce heat to low.
- Add Egg Mixture and Cheese: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the vegetable mixture in the skillet, tilting to distribute. Stir gently for about 30 seconds to incorporate. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese, lemon zest, chopped chives, and tarragon evenly over the top.
- Bake the Frittata: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles. Avoid overbaking to keep edges moist.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let the frittata rest in the skillet for 5 minutes to finish cooking and firm up. Run a spatula around edges, slide onto a cutting board, slice into wedges, garnish with extra chives if desired, and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Blanching the broccolini ensures it stays bright green and tender without overcooking in the oven.
- Using Greek yogurt and Dijon mustard in the egg mix adds richness and prevents the eggs from separating.
- An oven-safe skillet is essential to transfer the frittata directly from stovetop to oven.
- Resting the frittata before slicing helps it hold shape and makes for cleaner cuts.
- Feta cheese provides a tangy contrast; you can substitute Parmesan or goat cheese if preferred.
