Easy Air Fryer Herb & Cheese Frittata Recipe (Ready in 15 Minutes!)

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Are you tired of the same old breakfast routine? Looking for a protein-packed meal that’s ready in minutes without heating up your entire kitchen? This Air Fried Herb and Cheese Frittata is about to become your go-to recipe. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a quick dinner solution, this versatile dish checks all the boxes.

Unlike traditional oven baked frittata recipes that require preheating and extended cook times, this air fryer version delivers the same fluffy, golden results in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy mornings, lazy weekend brunches, or even as one of those satisfying egg dishes for dinner when you need something nutritious and comforting.

What makes this frittata recipe truly special is its simplicity. With just a handful of fresh herbs, creamy cheese, and eggs, you’ll create restaurant-quality results right in your air fryer. The compact cooking chamber circulates hot air perfectly, giving you evenly cooked edges and a tender center every single time.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Frittata

This recipe hits the sweet spot between convenience and flavor. Here’s what makes it stand out:

• Lightning-fast cooking: Ready in 15 minutes from start to finish
• Minimal cleanup: Just one bowl and one pan to wash
• Customizable: Swap herbs and cheese to match your taste
• Budget-friendly: Uses simple pantry staples you likely have on hand
• Versatile serving options: Perfect hot, warm, or at room temperature
• Meal prep friendly: Make several batches for the week ahead

If you’ve been searching for mini frittata recipes or ways to use your air fryer beyond frozen foods, this recipe opens up a whole new world of possibilities. It works beautifully as a base recipe that you can adapt into bacon frittata variations, veggie frittata combinations, or even keto frittata recipes by adjusting the ingredients.

Essential Ingredients

Let’s break down what you’ll need for this delicious frittata recipe:

Main Ingredients Table

Ingredient	Amount	Purpose
Eggs	4 large	Protein base and structure
Half and Half	1/2 cup	Adds creaminess and richness
Sharp Cheddar Cheese	1/3 cup shredded	Flavor and texture
Green Scallions	2 tablespoons chopped	Fresh onion flavor
Cilantro or Parsley	2 tablespoons chopped	Herbal brightness
Kosher Salt	1/2 teaspoon	Enhances all flavors
Ground Black Pepper	1/2 teaspoon	Subtle heat and depth

Ingredient Notes

Eggs: Use fresh, large eggs for the best rise and texture. Room temperature eggs mix more smoothly with the cream.

Half and Half: This is the secret to a creamy, restaurant-quality frittata. You can substitute with heavy cream for extra richness or whole milk for a lighter version, though the texture will be slightly less luxurious.

Sharp Cheddar: The sharper the cheese, the more flavor punch you’ll get. Feel free to experiment with Gruyère, Swiss, or even crumbled feta for variety.

Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs make a significant difference. While dried herbs work in a pinch, the bright, fresh flavor of cilantro, parsley, or even basil elevates this simple dish.

Equipment You’ll Need

To make this recipe successfully, you’ll need a few key kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in achieving perfect results:

• Air fryer with basket (3-5 quart capacity works great)
• Heat-safe 6-inch pan that fits in your air fryer basket
• Mixing bowls for whisking ingredients
• Pastry or silicone brush for greasing
• Wire whisk or fork for beating eggs
• Measuring cups and spoons set for accuracy
• Cutting board for chopping herbs

If you’re making this recipe regularly, investing in quality kitchen utensils and proper chef’s knives will make your prep work faster and more enjoyable.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps for perfect frittata every time:

Preparation (5 minutes)

1. Grease your pan thoroughly: Using a pastry brush or silicone brush, generously coat your 6-inch heat-safe pan with butter or cooking spray. Pay special attention to the sides and corners since eggs have a notorious reputation for sticking. Alternatively, line the bottom with a parchment paper round for foolproof release.
2. Whisk the egg mixture: In a large mixing bowl, crack your eggs and beat them vigorously with the half-and-half until well combined and slightly frothy. This incorporates air and creates a lighter texture.
3. Add the mix-ins: Stir in your shredded cheddar cheese, chopped scallions, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly to distribute everything evenly throughout the egg mixture.
4. Pour into the pan: Transfer your egg mixture into the prepared pan. Give it a gentle shake to level the surface and ensure even cooking.

Air Frying (15 minutes)

5. Position the pan: Carefully place your filled pan into the air fryer basket. Make sure it sits level and stable.
6. Set temperature and time: Program your air fryer to 330°F and set the timer for 15 minutes. This moderate temperature ensures the frittata cooks through without browning too quickly on top.
7. Check for doneness: After 15 minutes, insert a toothpick or knife into the center. If it comes out clean with no wet egg mixture, your frittata is ready. If needed, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
8. Remove and rest: Using oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves, carefully lift the hot pan from the air fryer. Let it rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This brief rest allows the eggs to set completely and makes slicing easier.

Pro Tips for Perfect Frittata

These expert tips will take your frittata from good to absolutely amazing:

Temperature matters: Don’t rush the cooking by increasing the heat. The 330°F temperature is ideal for even cooking without burnt edges.

Don’t overfill: Leave about 1/2 inch of space at the top of your pan. The eggs will puff up slightly during cooking.

Room temperature ingredients: Let your eggs and half-and-half sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before mixing. They’ll combine more smoothly and cook more evenly.

Test different pans: Silicone pans work great and nothing sticks. Metal pans conduct heat faster but require more greasing. Glass or ceramic pans work too but may need an extra minute or two.

Season generously: Eggs can handle more salt than you think. Don’t be shy with your seasonings.

Fresh herb timing: Add delicate herbs like cilantro or parsley to the raw mixture, but if using heartier herbs like rosemary or thyme, consider topping the frittata halfway through cooking to prevent burning.

Customization Ideas

This base recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some variations to try:

Mediterranean Style: Replace cheddar with feta cheese, add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and use oregano and basil instead of cilantro.

Southwest Frittata: Mix in diced jalapeños, black beans, corn, pepper jack cheese, and top with avocado and salsa after cooking.

Bacon Frittata: Cook and crumble 3-4 strips of bacon, then fold into the egg mixture. This creates a heartier, protein-packed version perfect for brunch.

Veggie Frittata: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. Just make sure to cook vegetables first to remove excess moisture.

Keto Frittata: This recipe is already low-carb friendly! Add more cheese and vegetables while keeping the base recipe the same for perfect keto frittata recipes.

Potato Frittata: Dice one small potato into tiny cubes, microwave until tender, then fold into the mixture. This creates a more substantial, filling meal.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile frittata shines in many situations:

For Breakfast: Serve wedges alongside crispy toast, fresh fruit, and your favorite morning beverage.

For Brunch: Present it on a beautiful platter with mixed greens, roasted tomatoes, and crusty artisan bread.

For Dinner: Pair with a simple salad, roasted vegetables, and crusty bread for a light yet satisfying meal. It’s one of the easiest egg dishes for dinner you’ll make.

For Meal Prep: Cut into wedges and store in the refrigerator. Reheat individual portions in the air fryer at 300°F for 3-4 minutes or microwave for 30-45 seconds.

For Appetizers: Cut into small squares or use a cookie cutter for fun shapes. Serve at room temperature with toothpicks for easy party food.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftover frittata in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The texture remains excellent and flavors develop even more overnight.

Freezing: While possible, freezing isn’t recommended as the texture becomes slightly watery upon thawing. If you must freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month.

Reheating: The air fryer is your best friend for reheating. Place wedges in the basket at 300°F for 3-5 minutes until warmed through. This restores the texture better than microwaving.

Make-ahead option: Prepare the egg mixture the night before and store in the refrigerator. In the morning, give it a quick stir and pour into your greased pan for fresh, hot frittata in 15 minutes.

Nutritional Benefits

This frittata recipe offers impressive nutritional value:

Each serving provides high-quality protein from eggs, calcium from cheese and cream, and various vitamins from fresh herbs. The combination of protein and healthy fats keeps you satisfied for hours, making it perfect for breakfast or as part of your egg white frittata recipes collection if you modify it.

Eggs contain all nine essential amino acids, making them a complete protein source. They’re also rich in vitamin D, B vitamins, and selenium. The herbs add antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, while the cheese contributes additional protein and calcium.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without an air fryer?
Yes! Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes. The air fryer version is just faster and uses less energy.

What size pan should I use?
A 6-inch pan is ideal for this recipe quantity. An 8-inch pan will work but create a thinner frittata that cooks faster (check at 12 minutes).

Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Use two 6-inch pans or one 8-inch pan. Cooking time may increase by 3-5 minutes for larger portions.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! At approximately 3-4g net carbs per serving, it fits perfectly into keto frittata recipes. The half-and-half contributes most of the carbs.

Can I use egg whites only?
Yes, though the texture will be less rich. Use 8 egg whites to replace 4 whole eggs. This creates lighter egg white frittata recipes.

What if I don’t have half-and-half?
Mix equal parts heavy cream and whole milk, or use all milk for a lighter version. The frittata will be slightly less creamy but still delicious.

Why did my frittata stick to the pan?
Insufficient greasing is usually the culprit. Use extra butter or cooking spray, or line the bottom with parchment paper.

Can I add raw vegetables?
Most vegetables contain water that releases during cooking, making your frittata watery. Sauté vegetables first in a frying pan to remove moisture before adding to your egg mixture.

How do I know when it’s done?
The top should look set (not jiggly), and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. The frittata will puff up slightly and then settle as it cools.

Can I make mini frittatas?
Yes! This recipe adapts beautifully to mini frittata recipes. Use a muffin tin or silicone muffin cups. Reduce cooking time to 8-10 minutes at the same temperature.

Why Air Frying Works So Well

The air fryer has revolutionized how we cook eggs. The circulating hot air creates an even, gentle heat that cooks the frittata perfectly from all sides simultaneously. Unlike traditional oven baked frittata recipes that heat primarily from the bottom, air frying eliminates hot spots and overcooked edges.

The compact cooking chamber also means faster preheating and more efficient energy use. You’re not heating an entire oven for one small pan. Plus, the precise temperature control of modern air fryers ensures consistent results every time.

For anyone exploring frittata recipes breakfast options, the air fryer method is a revelation. You can have a hot, fresh frittata on the table faster than ordering delivery, with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fried Herb and Cheese Frittata proves that simple ingredients and modern cooking methods can create extraordinary results. Whether you’re looking for quick breakfast solutions, meal prep ideas, or satisfying egg dishes for dinner, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

The beauty of this frittata recipe lies in its versatility. Use it as a foundation for countless variations from bacon frittata creations to veggie-packed versions that use up whatever’s in your crisper drawer. Master this basic technique, and you’ll have a reliable recipe that serves you well for years to come.

So grab your air fryer, whisk up some eggs, and experience how easy and delicious homemade frittata can be. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you!

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