Discover the perfect harmony of tender potatoes, vibrant spinach, and creamy eggs in this satisfying frittata that transforms simple ingredients into an elegant meal suitable for any time of day. This versatile dish combines the hearty comfort of potatoes with the nutritional powerhouse of spinach, creating a protein-rich meal that works beautifully for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or a light dinner.
Ingredients
For the Frittata:
- 2 medium potatoes (approximately 1 lb/450g), peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion (about 150g), finely chopped
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup (30g) fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk or plant-based milk alternative
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup (25g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, chives, or dill)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Skillet Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Use a 10-inch oven-safe skillet, preferably cast iron or stainless steel, which will go from stovetop to oven seamlessly.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes Heat the olive oil in your oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes in a single layer and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and fork-tender. The potatoes should have crispy edges and creamy centers.
Step 3: Add Aromatics Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the potatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 4: Incorporate Spinach Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet and stir gently until it wilts completely, about 1-2 minutes. The spinach will reduce significantly in volume as it cooks.
Step 5: Prepare the Egg Mixture In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined and slightly frothy. If using Parmesan cheese, whisk it into the egg mixture at this stage.
Step 6: Combine and Cook Pour the egg mixture evenly over the potato and spinach mixture in the skillet. Use a spatula to gently distribute the ingredients, ensuring the eggs reach all areas of the pan. Cook on the stovetop for 3-4 minutes without stirring, allowing the bottom to set slightly.
Step 7: Finish in the Oven Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. The frittata should not jiggle when gently shaken.
Step 8: Cool and Serve Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Serves 4-6)
- Calories: 185-210 per serving
- Protein: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 18-22g
- Fat: 8-10g
- Fiber: 2-3g
- Sodium: 280-320mg
- Potassium: 450-520mg
- Vitamin A: 2,500-3,000 IU
- Vitamin C: 15-20mg
- Iron: 2-3mg
- Calcium: 120-150mg (with Parmesan)
Nutritional values may vary based on potato size and optional ingredients used
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Potato Alternatives
While traditional potatoes work beautifully, sweet potatoes create a slightly sweeter profile with added beta-carotene. Yukon Gold potatoes offer a buttery flavor, while red potatoes provide a waxy texture that holds up well during cooking.
Cheese Variations
Beyond Parmesan, experiment with different cheeses such as sharp cheddar for boldness, Gruyère for sophistication, or goat cheese for creaminess. Crumbled feta adds a Mediterranean flair, while smoked cheese introduces interesting depth.
Vegetable Additions
Enhance the nutritional profile with additional vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes. Asparagus spears add elegance, while zucchini provides extra moisture and mild flavor. Add heartier vegetables with the potatoes and delicate ones with the spinach.
Protein Enhancements
Transform this vegetarian dish into a heartier meal by adding cooked bacon, ham, or sausage. Smoked salmon creates an elegant brunch option, while leftover roasted chicken makes it a complete dinner.
Herb Combinations
Fresh herbs significantly elevate this dish. Try Mediterranean combinations like oregano and basil, or French-inspired mixtures with tarragon and thyme. Dill pairs particularly well with potatoes and eggs.
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
Choose the right potatoes for optimal texture. Waxy varieties like red or fingerling potatoes hold their shape well, while starchy varieties like Russets become fluffy but may break apart more easily.
Cut potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking. Smaller pieces cook faster but may become mushy, while larger pieces may not cook through properly. Half-inch cubes provide the ideal balance.
Don’t rush the potato cooking phase. Properly cooked potatoes should be golden brown and tender throughout. This foundation step is crucial for the overall success of the frittata.
Use room temperature eggs for better incorporation and smoother texture. Cold eggs can create uneven cooking and a less cohesive final product.
The key to a perfect frittata is not overcooking. The center should be just set but still slightly creamy. Residual heat will continue cooking the eggs even after removal from the oven.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
This frittata is delicious both warm and at room temperature, making it perfect for entertaining or meal prep. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Serve wedges with a simple green salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It also works beautifully as part of a brunch buffet alongside pastries, fresh fruit, and beverages.
For elegant presentation, garnish with microgreens, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving.
International Variations
This basic technique adapts beautifully to different cultural flavors. Create a Spanish-inspired tortilla by omitting the spinach and focusing on perfectly cooked potatoes. An Italian frittata might include sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil, while a Greek version could feature olives and feta cheese.
For Middle Eastern flavors, add za’atar seasoning and serve with yogurt sauce. An Indian-inspired version might include curry powder, cilantro, and a touch of turmeric for color.
Make-Ahead Tips
While best served fresh, this frittata can be partially prepared in advance. Cook the potato mixture completely and store covered in the refrigerator overnight. The next morning, reheat the potato mixture, add fresh spinach, and proceed with the egg addition and baking.
Individual portions can be prepared in muffin tins using the same ingredients, reducing baking time to 15-18 minutes for convenient grab-and-go meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this frittata without an oven-safe skillet? Yes, you can transfer the cooked potato mixture to a greased 9-inch pie dish or baking dish before adding the eggs. The cooking time may vary slightly, so watch for doneness indicators like set center and golden top.
Why did my frittata turn out watery? Excess moisture usually comes from not cooking the vegetables long enough or using too much milk. Ensure spinach is completely wilted and any released moisture has evaporated before adding eggs. Fresh spinach contains more water than you might expect.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? Yes, but thaw it completely and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel. Use about 1/2 cup of frozen spinach to replace 1 cup of fresh, as frozen spinach is more concentrated.
How do I know when the frittata is done? The frittata is ready when the center is set and doesn’t jiggle when gently shaken. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean, and the top should be lightly golden brown.
Can I make individual portions? Absolutely! Divide the mixture among greased muffin cups and bake at the same temperature for 15-18 minutes. This creates perfect portion control and convenient grab-and-go meals.
This egg-citing spinach and potato frittata represents the perfect marriage of comfort and nutrition, proving that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results when combined thoughtfully. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, preparing weekday meals, or seeking a satisfying dinner option, this versatile dish delivers consistent, delicious results that please both the palate and the body. The combination of protein-rich eggs, nutritious spinach, and satisfying potatoes creates a complete meal that supports healthy eating goals while never compromising on flavor or satisfaction.