Save A fluffy ricotta herb bacon frittata is my go-to when I need something satisfying but elegant for brunch or an easy dinner. The combination of silky ricotta cheese, smoky crisp bacon, and fresh herbs all nestled in a pillowy egg base is pure comfort with a little Italian flair every bite tastes bright and bold yet so homey. This recipe is perfect for when I want to impress guests or make family mornings special without spending hours in the kitchen.
I first made this to rescue a Sunday after our original plans fell through it instantly turned into a family favorite. Now whenever there are extra eggs or leftover greens around this frittata is the answer.
Ingredients
- Bacon: adds smoky savory depth look for well-marbled slices with a mix of lean and fat
- Ricotta cheese: brings creaminess and softness choose a good-quality whole milk ricotta for best flavor
- Parmesan cheese: infuses sharpness opt for freshly grated if possible for more melt and taste
- Whole milk: keeps the frittata light but not dry whole milk offers creaminess too
- Eggs: are the star use large fresh eggs with bright yolks for a lush texture
- Onion: offers a sweet base finely chop to distribute flavor evenly
- Fresh chives, parsley, and basil: brighten each bite use lush aromatic bunches rinse and dry well first
- Baby spinach: packs in vitamins and gentle flavor look for crisp green leaves
- Olive oil: for sautéing choose extra virgin for its subtle grassy note
- Salt: brings out flavors use fine kosher or sea salt for even seasoning
- Black pepper: has gentle bite grind fresh for best flavor
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit 190 degrees Celsius so it is ready to finish the frittata. This ensures even cooking as soon as the skillet goes in.
- Cook the Bacon:
- Lay bacon strips in a cold oven-safe skillet and turn the heat to medium. Let them cook slowly to release fat and achieve perfect crispness flip as needed for seven to ten minutes. Remove bacon and let it drain on paper towels then chop into bite-sized pieces. Be sure to reserve just one tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet for the next steps.
- Sauté Onion and Spinach:
- Add olive oil to the reserved bacon fat. Toss in finely chopped onion and stir gently on medium heat until soft and translucent about three minutes. Next add the chopped spinach and stir until it completely wilts down which should take around two minutes. Turn off the heat so the skillet does not overcook the vegetables.
- Mix Eggs and Dairy:
- In a large bowl whisk eggs with milk until smooth and frothy. Add ricotta in small dollops whisking until it mostly blends but a few small creamy curds remain. Sprinkle in Parmesan salt and black pepper and whisk again. The herbs can be stirred straight into this mixture now.
- Combine Everything:
- Gently stir sautéed onions spinach chopped bacon and herbs into the egg mixture. Fold together with a spatula for an even distribution so there are no dry spots or large clumps. Pour this back into your warm skillet and make sure the mixture is spread to the edges. Let it cook on medium-low for four to five minutes to begin setting the bottom edges without browning.
- Bake the Frittata:
- Move the skillet to your preheated oven. Let the frittata bake for fifteen to eighteen minutes until the top is fully set and slightly golden. Test doneness by giving the pan a light shake the center should not jiggle. Remove from the oven carefully as the pan will be hot.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let the frittata rest at room temperature for five minutes. This helps finish the cooking gently and makes it easier to slice. Use a thin spatula to slide it out or cut directly in the skillet. Enjoy warm or at room temperature for the best texture.
Save I always look forward to tossing in extra chives from my herb garden you really taste how every fresh herb elevates the whole dish. My kids love when I let them sprinkle cheese on top theirs always turns out extra golden and cheesy.
Storage Tips
This frittata keeps well in the fridge for up to three days simply cover the skillet or place slices in an airtight container to reheat microwave individual slices for about one minute or cover and warm in a low oven for best results do not freeze with ricotta as it can separate but the texture stays nice if enjoyed within a few days
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap pancetta for bacon if you want a saltier richer Italian note turkey bacon works for a lighter twist no ricotta on hand try a mix of cream cheese and cottage cheese for similar creaminess and if fresh herbs are missing use dried but only half the amount
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside a crisp green salad or toss in cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness toast thick slices of gluten-free bread to mop up each bite or simply pair with grapes for a relaxed brunch spread this also works great cut into small wedges for appetizers at parties
Cultural Context
Frittatas are a staple in Italian home cooking where families stretch eggs and vegetables into a satisfying meal they make the most of leftovers and celebrate whatever is fresh and in season every Italian nonna has her own twist
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap spinach for asparagus spears or diced zucchini in summer Use sautéed mushrooms in the fall for earthy flavor Add sliced tomatoes to the top before baking in late summer Helpful Notes Use room temperature eggs and dairy for best blending Dry any fresh herbs thoroughly so the frittata is not watery Letting the pan cool slightly before cutting makes for neat slices
Success Stories
I once made this frittata for friends who never had ricotta in eggs their faces lit up after the first bite now it is a requested brunch item for every gathering one friend even calls it my signature dish and got her whole family hooked
Freezer Meal Conversion
While the ricotta frittata is best fresh you can pre-cook all the filling components then freeze in a zip bag once thawed just mix with fresh eggs dairy and bake as usual it still comes out delicious and saves time on busy mornings
Save Enjoy this frittata warm with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or serve chilled for a fuss-free meal. Each slice brings creamy comfort and vibrant flavor to your table.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use other meats instead of bacon?
Yes, pancetta or cooked sausage work well and add different flavor profiles to the dish.
- → How do I achieve a fluffy texture?
Whisk the eggs thoroughly with ricotta and milk, and avoid overmixing once adding other ingredients.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels for possible cross-contamination.
- → Can I add extra vegetables?
Absolutely. Sautéed mushrooms, roasted peppers, or zucchini can be added for more flavor and nutrition.
- → What's the best way to serve this dish?
Enjoy warm or at room temperature, paired with a salad or crusty bread for a complete meal experience.