Introduction
The Mushroom Frittata is a simple yet flavorful dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. This Italian-inspired egg dish, typically made with a variety of vegetables and sometimes meats, offers a delicious and filling meal in just one pan. The rich, earthy taste of mushrooms combined with creamy eggs and melted cheese makes for a satisfying dish that works well on any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or looking for an easy meal to meal prep, the Mushroom Frittata is a versatile option that can be customized to suit your tastes. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make a perfect Mushroom Frittata, get tips for success, and explore variations to elevate this classic dish.
Why You’ll Love Mushroom Frittata
- Flavorful and Savory: The mushrooms bring a rich, earthy flavor that complements the creaminess of the eggs and the slight tang of cheese. The combination of these ingredients makes the frittata both satisfying and delicious.
- Quick and Easy: Frittatas come together quickly, making them a perfect option for a busy breakfast or brunch. It’s a one-pan dish that requires minimal effort, yet delivers a full meal.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you want to add spinach, bacon, or different cheeses, the possibilities are endless.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Eggs provide a good source of protein, while mushrooms add fiber and antioxidants. This dish is a great way to start the day or enjoy a light meal without feeling guilty.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual weekday meals to fancy brunches, the Mushroom Frittata works well for any time of day or special event.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Fat: 18-20g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fiber: 2-3g
- Sugar: 3-5g
Ingredients
For the Mushroom Frittata:
- 8 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cups fresh mushrooms (such as cremini, button, or a mix), sliced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs, such as parsley, thyme, or basil, for garnish (optional)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup spinach, kale, or arugula
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon or sausage
- 1/4 cup feta or goat cheese
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure you have all your ingredients ready to go. Dice the onion, slice the mushrooms, and chop any additional vegetables or herbs you plan to use. If you’re using any optional ingredients like bacon or sausage, cook them ahead of time and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the sliced mushrooms and bell pepper (if using) to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms have released their moisture and become tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. If you’re adding garlic, stir it in during the last minute of cooking to avoid burning.
3. Beat the Eggs
While the vegetables are cooking, crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them until fully combined. If you want a creamier texture, you can add 1/4 cup of heavy cream or milk to the eggs. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper. You can also add a pinch of herbs like thyme or parsley at this stage for extra flavor.
4. Combine the Egg Mixture with the Vegetables
Once the mushrooms and other vegetables are cooked, pour the beaten eggs into the skillet over the veggies. Use a spatula to evenly distribute the eggs and vegetables. Allow the eggs to cook undisturbed for a minute or two, just until the edges begin to set.
5. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the eggs and vegetables. You can use any cheese you prefer, but cheddar and mozzarella work especially well in this dish. Allow the cheese to melt into the frittata as it cooks.
6. Finish Cooking in the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the eggs are mostly set (with a soft, slightly runny center), transfer the skillet to the preheated oven to finish cooking. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the frittata is golden brown on top and the eggs are fully set. Keep an eye on the frittata to avoid overbaking, as it can become dry.
7. Cool and Serve
Once the frittata is done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added color and flavor. Cut into wedges and serve warm.
Tips for Perfect Mushroom Frittata
- Use a Non-stick Skillet: A non-stick skillet makes it easier to slide the frittata out of the pan without it sticking, especially when baking it in the oven.
- Don’t Overcook the Eggs: Be sure to remove the frittata from the oven when the eggs are just set, not overcooked. A slightly soft center is ideal for a creamy and tender frittata.
- Customize the Fillings: The Mushroom Frittata is incredibly versatile. You can add spinach, bell peppers, zucchini, or even different cheeses based on what you have available. Feel free to get creative with the fillings.
- Cook the Veggies Well: Mushrooms contain a lot of moisture, so it’s important to cook them until most of the moisture has evaporated. Otherwise, you may end up with a soggy frittata.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs can really elevate the flavor of the frittata. Try experimenting with thyme, rosemary, parsley, or chives to see which you prefer.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the frittata a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to warm it through.
Variations of Mushroom Frittata
- Spinach and Mushroom Frittata: Add fresh spinach to the mushroom mixture for added nutrition and color. Spinach wilts down significantly, so you can add a generous handful to the pan.
- Bacon and Mushroom Frittata: For a savory touch, add cooked bacon to the frittata. Bacon pairs perfectly with the earthy mushrooms and adds a nice crunch and smokiness.
- Cheese Lover’s Mushroom Frittata: Use a combination of your favorite cheeses, such as mozzarella, Parmesan, and goat cheese, to create a rich, melty frittata. The blend of cheeses will give you a complex, creamy flavor.
- Mushroom and Goat Cheese Frittata: If you enjoy tangy, creamy cheeses, goat cheese is a great addition to a mushroom frittata. The contrast between the mushrooms and goat cheese is wonderful.
- Mushroom and Sausage Frittata: For a more hearty version, add cooked sausage to the mushroom and egg mixture. The sausage provides additional flavor and protein to the frittata, making it even more filling.
- Vegan Mushroom Frittata: For a plant-based version, use silken tofu instead of eggs and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also add non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Replace the cheese with a vegan cheese of your choice.
- Tomato and Mushroom Frittata: Add diced tomatoes to the mushroom mixture for a refreshing twist. The juiciness of the tomatoes pairs well with the earthiness of the mushrooms and adds moisture to the frittata.
Storage and Shelf Life
Frittatas are great for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To store, allow the frittata to cool completely, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm the whole frittata in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Frittatas can also be frozen for longer storage. Slice the frittata into wedges, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen frittata can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.
Side Dishes and Pairings for Mushroom Frittata
Pair your Mushroom Frittata with complementary sides to create a full meal:
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a lemon vinaigrette works beautifully alongside the rich frittata.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic and rosemary make a hearty side dish that pairs well with the creamy frittata.
- Fresh Fruit: A simple side of fresh fruit, such as berries, oranges, or melon, adds a refreshing balance to the savory flavors of the frittata.
- Toast or Croissants: Serve your frittata with warm toast or flaky croissants for a complete breakfast or brunch.
- Herbed Yogurt: A dollop of tangy, herbed yogurt on the side provides a cool, creamy contrast to the warm frittata.
Mushroom Frittata Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
This Mushroom Frittata is a savory, protein-packed dish perfect for any meal of the day. With tender mushrooms, fresh herbs, and fluffy eggs, it’s a light yet filling option that’s easy to make and always impressive. Serve warm or at room temperature for a brunch favorite.
Ingredients
For the Mushroom Frittata:
- 8 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cups fresh mushrooms (such as cremini, button, or a mix), sliced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs, such as parsley, thyme, or basil, for garnish (optional)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup spinach, kale, or arugula
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon or sausage
- 1/4 cup feta or goat cheese
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure you have all your ingredients ready to go. Dice the onion, slice the mushrooms, and chop any additional vegetables or herbs you plan to use. If you’re using any optional ingredients like bacon or sausage, cook them ahead of time and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the sliced mushrooms and bell pepper (if using) to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms have released their moisture and become tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. If you’re adding garlic, stir it in during the last minute of cooking to avoid burning.
3. Beat the Eggs
While the vegetables are cooking, crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them until fully combined. If you want a creamier texture, you can add 1/4 cup of heavy cream or milk to the eggs. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper. You can also add a pinch of herbs like thyme or parsley at this stage for extra flavor.
4. Combine the Egg Mixture with the Vegetables
Once the mushrooms and other vegetables are cooked, pour the beaten eggs into the skillet over the veggies. Use a spatula to evenly distribute the eggs and vegetables. Allow the eggs to cook undisturbed for a minute or two, just until the edges begin to set.
5. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the eggs and vegetables. You can use any cheese you prefer, but cheddar and mozzarella work especially well in this dish. Allow the cheese to melt into the frittata as it cooks.
6. Finish Cooking in the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the eggs are mostly set (with a soft, slightly runny center), transfer the skillet to the preheated oven to finish cooking. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the frittata is golden brown on top and the eggs are fully set. Keep an eye on the frittata to avoid overbaking, as it can become dry.
7. Cool and Serve
Once the frittata is done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added color and flavor. Cut into wedges and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Fat: 18-20g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
- Protein: 15-20g
Conclusion
The Mushroom Frittata is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any meal. Packed with flavor from the mushrooms, eggs, and cheese, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal that can be made in under 30 minutes. With endless possibilities for customization, you can easily tailor the frittata to suit your preferences. Whether you enjoy it with a side salad, crispy potatoes, or fresh fruit, the Mushroom Frittata is a meal that will please everyone at the table. Enjoy making and sharing this classic, one-pan wonder!