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Looking for a show-stopping brunch recipe that’s actually simple to make? This herb frittata with arugula combines fresh ingredients with foolproof technique to create a fluffy, flavorful egg dish that works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Whether you’re hosting weekend brunch or meal prepping for the week ahead, this veggie-packed frittata delivers every single time.
Unlike complicated egg dishes that require constant attention, frittatas are remarkably forgiving. You start them on the stovetop and finish them in the oven, giving you time to prepare other dishes or enjoy your morning coffee. This particular recipe features peppery arugula, aromatic fresh herbs, and creamy ricotta cheese that transforms simple eggs into something truly special.
Table of Contents
What Makes This Frittata Recipe Special
This isn’t your average egg bake. The combination of ricotta and whole milk creates an incredibly creamy texture that stays moist even after reheating. Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and dill add layers of flavor without overwhelming the delicate eggs. The arugula wilts perfectly into the mixture, providing a subtle peppery bite that complements the richness of the eggs and cheese.
The best part? You probably have most ingredients in your refrigerator right now. This recipe proves you don’t need fancy ingredients to create restaurant-quality results at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything required to make this delicious herb frittata:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Eggs | 8 large | Room temperature works best |
| Milk | 1/3 cup | Whole milk or 2% recommended |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 3 tbsp | For cooking the base |
| Ricotta cheese | 1/2 cup | Adds creaminess |
| Kosher salt | 1/2 tsp | Or sea salt |
| Ground pepper | To taste | Freshly ground preferred |
| Diced onions | 1/2 cup | Yellow or white onion |
| Arugula | 2 cups packed | Shredded kale also works |
| Fresh herbs | 1/4 cup chopped | Parsley, chives, or dill |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/3 cup shredded | For topping |
| Microgreens | For garnish | Optional but beautiful |
Equipment You’ll Need
To make this recipe seamlessly, gather these essential tools:
- A 10-inch oven-safe frying pan (cast iron works beautifully)
- Mixing bowls for whisking eggs
- Kitchen utensils including a whisk and spatula
- Cutting board and chef’s knife for prep work
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Phase
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and position the rack in the middle
- Place your 10-inch frying pan on the stovetop but don’t turn on the heat yet
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, ricotta, salt, and pepper until well combined
- Using your cutting board and chef’s knife, dice the onions finely
- Measure out your fresh herbs and arugula, keeping them separate
Cooking the Base
- Add 3 tablespoons of olive oil to your pan and turn heat to medium
- Once the oil shimmers, add diced onions and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened and translucent
- Stir in the arugula and fresh herbs, cooking just until the greens wilt (about 1 minute)
Assembling and Baking
- Pour the egg mixture into the pan, stirring gently to incorporate the onions and greens evenly
- Let cook undisturbed on the stovetop until edges begin pulling away from the pan (5-7 minutes)
- Sprinkle shredded parmesan cheese evenly over the top
- Transfer the pan to your preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes
- Test doneness by pressing the center gently it should spring back when ready
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before slicing
- Garnish with microgreens and serve warm with crusty bread and butter

Expert Tips for Perfect Frittatas
Temperature matters: Use room temperature eggs for better incorporation and fluffier results. Take them out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking.
Don’t skip the ricotta: This secret ingredient creates an incredibly creamy texture that sets this recipe apart from basic frittata recipes breakfast options.
Watch the stovetop time: The edges should just start pulling away but the center can still look slightly jiggly. The oven will finish the cooking.
Use an oven-safe pan: Cast iron frying pans work beautifully because they distribute heat evenly and go from stovetop to oven seamlessly.
Customize your veggies: While this recipe uses arugula, you can substitute spinach, kale, or Swiss chard. Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from heartier greens.
Variations to Try
Bacon Frittata Version
Add 4 strips of cooked, crumbled bacon after wilting the greens. The smoky flavor pairs beautifully with the fresh herbs.
Potato Frittata Style
Include 1 cup of diced, pre-cooked potatoes with the onions. This makes the frittata more substantial and perfect for egg dishes for dinner.
Keto Frittata Option
This recipe already works well for keto frittata recipes! Simply ensure your milk is full-fat and consider adding extra cheese or avocado slices on top.
Mini Frittata Variation
Pour the mixture into a greased muffin tin instead of a frying pan. Bake at 350°F for 12-15 minutes for perfect mini frittata recipes ideal for meal prep.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover frittata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes.
This frittata also freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile frittata works for any meal:
- Breakfast or brunch: Serve with fresh fruit, crispy bacon, and toasted sourdough
- Lunch: Pair with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette
- Dinner: Serve alongside roasted vegetables and crusty bread
- Meal prep: Slice into portions for easy grab-and-go breakfasts all week
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this frittata ahead of time?
Absolutely! Frittatas taste great at room temperature or cold, making them perfect for meal prep. Prepare it the night before and simply reheat portions as needed.
What’s the difference between a frittata and an omelet?
Frittatas are cooked slowly and finished in the oven, creating a thick, cake-like texture. Omelets are cooked quickly on the stovetop and folded over fillings.
Can I use egg whites only?
Yes! For egg white frittata recipes, use 12-14 egg whites instead of whole eggs. The texture will be lighter and less rich.
Do I need to flip a frittata?
No! That’s the beauty of this cooking method. You start it on the stovetop and finish it in the oven, eliminating any risky flipping.
Can I make this vegan frittata?
For a vegan frittata version, substitute eggs with chickpea flour batter (1 cup chickpea flour mixed with 1 cup water and seasonings) and use plant-based cheese alternatives.
What size pan should I use?
A 10-inch frying pan is ideal for this recipe. Smaller pans will result in a thicker frittata that requires longer baking time.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of stovetop and oven cooking ensures even cooking throughout. Starting on the stovetop sets the bottom and edges while finishing in the oven gently cooks the center without overcooking the exterior.
The ricotta adds moisture and creaminess that prevents the eggs from becoming rubbery a common problem with oven baked frittata recipes. Fresh herbs provide aromatic complexity without adding calories or carbs, making this naturally suitable for various dietary preferences.
Nutritional Benefits
Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like vitamin D, B vitamins, and selenium. Arugula contributes vitamins A, C, and K along with beneficial antioxidants. Fresh herbs add flavor and anti-inflammatory compounds without extra calories.
This nutrient-dense meal keeps you satisfied for hours, making it ideal for breakfast or as one of your favorite egg dishes for dinner.
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PrintFresh Herb Frittata Recipe (Ready in 30 Minutes!) – Easy Veggie Egg Dish
This herb frittata with arugula combines fresh ingredients with foolproof technique to create a fluffy, flavorful egg dish perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Creamy ricotta and fresh herbs make this restaurant-quality frittata easy enough for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Total Time: 40
- Yield: 6
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
8 large eggs
1/3 cup whole milk or 2%
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
Ground black pepper to taste
1/2 cup diced onions (about half small yellow or white onion)
2 cups packed arugula (shredded kale also works)
1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (mix of 2 tbsp parsley, 2 tbsp chives or dill)
1/3 cup shredded parmesan cheese
Microgreens for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and place a 10-inch oven-safe skillet on the stovetop.
2. Whisk eggs, milk, ricotta, salt and pepper in a bowl and set aside.
3. Dice onions and measure out herbs and arugula.
4. Add 3 tablespoons olive oil to pan over medium heat. Once hot, add onions and cook for 5-7 minutes to soften.
5. Stir in the arugula and herbs, cooking just until wilted, about 1 minute.
6. Pour the egg mixture into the pan, stir to incorporate the vegetables, then cook undisturbed until edges start pulling away from the pan, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Top with parmesan cheese and transfer to the oven. Bake for 15-18 minutes until the center springs back when pressed.
8. Let cool for a few minutes, then slice and top with microgreens. Serve with bread and butter if desired.
Notes
Store leftover frittata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This frittata can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag.
Room temperature eggs blend more smoothly and create fluffier results.
You can substitute arugula with spinach, kale, or Swiss chard.
For a bacon frittata variation, add 4 strips of cooked, crumbled bacon.
For mini frittatas, pour mixture into greased muffin tins and bake for 12-15 minutes.