Broccoli Cheddar Frittata

This deliciously cheesy frittata is loaded with broccoli and so easy to make! My family loves this for a weekend breakfast or brunch. Serve with a side of bacon, potatoes, fruit, or a simple salad.

Update: This recipe was originally published in 2021 and has been republished with all new photos.

A frittata is a lot like a spanish omelet or crustless quiche. It generally consists of scrambled eggs whisked with milk (or salsa if you’re using one of my Whole30/Paleo frittata recipes) and combined with cheese, veggies, and seasonings. It all bakes together for a quick entree that’s always impressive!

This Broccoli Cheddar Frittata reminds me of a great broccoli cheddar soup. But it’s for breakfast. (Sort of. I love a frittata for lunch and dinner too if we’re all being completely transparent here so feel free to enjoy it whenever.)

Oh baby it smells amazing coming out of the oven too!

Broccoli Cheddar Frittata Ingredients

• Olive or avocado oil: We’ll start by sautéing the broccoli and onion in a little oil.
• Broccoli: Chopping broccoli florets fairly small will ensure we have a bit in every bite. I typically use fresh broccoli in this recipe but you can use frozen (just make sure you chop it!). No need to thaw that frozen broccoli either!
• Onion: White or yellow onion both work well. We’ll sauté the onion before incorporating it into the frittata to get it tender and bring out its flavor.
• Cheddar cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese is essential in this cheesy broccoli frittata. You can use any shredded cheese you like but I recommend sharp cheddar for the boldest flavor.
• Eggs: You’ll need 8 large eggs for this recipe.
• Milk: You can use any unflavored milk in this frittata. Whisking it with the eggs will help us achieve a lighter texture. I like 2%, 1%, or skim milk.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, ground mustard, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper are the only seasonings you need to give this frittata the best flavor.

How to Make This Broccoli Cheddar Frittata

For this recipe we’ll start by sautéing the broccoli and onion in a cast iron skillet. Heat oil on medium-high heat or medium heat and then add the broccoli and onion.

While that’s cooking, whisk together the eggs, milk, and seasonings in a large bowl.

Then spread the finished broccoli and onion in the skillet. Top with shredded cheese. Pour in the egg mixture. Now it’s time to bake! It’s that simple!

What Size Cast Iron Skillet is Best?

Cast iron skillets come in a variety of sizes but the most common are the 10-inch and 12-inch. I use and recommend a 10-inch cast iron skillet for frittata recipes. While I love my 12-inch for making bacon, it can make your frittata way too thin so I strongly suggest sticking with the 10-inch here.

Cast Iron Skillet Care

Cast iron is a naturally nonstick surface, so if it’s been seasoned correctly food won’t stick. However, if your cast iron isn’t well cared for then sticking may be an issue. If you’re concerned about the state of your skillet, wipe it down with olive oil before using it for this frittata recipe.

After each use, wipe the inside of your skillet with a very thin layer of olive oil, just enough that the skillet is glossy. You don’t want any oil to pool and settle when you put the skillet away or it will get sticky. You’ll soon start to love your cast iron skillet again!

Can You Use a Pie Plate or Other Baking Dish?

The great thing about using cast iron for this recipe is that it can be used both on the stovetop AND in the oven! I do love not dirtying extra dishes! I fully support using any oven-safe skillet here.

Having said that, you can absolutely use a pie plate or 10 x 10 baking dish instead. (I do not recommend a baking dish larger than 10 x 10 because the egg mixture will spread too far resulting in a very thin and likely overcooked frittata.) Since they can’t be used on the stovetop you’ll need to sauté the broccoli and onion in a skillet first and then transfer it to your baking dish once cooked.

How to Customize This Frittata

• Looking to use a different cheese? Shredded mozzarella or a four cheese blend will also work beautifully.
• Want to maximize your nutrition? Fresh spinach leaves and/or halved grape tomatoes are a great way to work in some extra nutrients.
• Thinking about more protein? Fully cooked rotisserie chicken (shredded) or any leftover shredded chicken would be yummy! I also suggest deli turkey, deli ham, or sliced sausages!

Can You Prep This in Advance?

Yes! You can make it the night before, refrigerate overnight covered with a lid or foil, and bake the next morning (without the lid or foil).

Can You Freeze This Frittata?

Absolutely. Some people don’t like reheated eggs so whether you do or not is just a matter of personal preference. I personally think the texture of a frittata is excellent whether fresh or reheated (but that’s just my opinion). If you do choose to freeze this, slice it and let it cool. Once cooled, store the frittata slices in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw when you’re ready to eat. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350 degrees until warmed through.

How to Store Leftover Frittata

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

How to Serve this Frittata

Serve with a side of bacon, potatoes, fresh fruit, or a simple salad.

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