Sweet Potato Frittata with Caramelized Onions : Easy Breakfast Recipe

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Are you ready to transform your breakfast game with a recipe that’s as nutritious as it is delicious? This Sweet Potato Frittata with Spinach and Caramelized Onions is about to become your new favorite egg dish. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, meal prepping for busy mornings, or looking for a satisfying dinner option, this frittata checks all the boxes.

What makes this recipe truly special is the crispy sweet potato crust that replaces traditional pastry, making it naturally gluten-free and packed with vitamins. The combination of caramelized onions, fresh spinach, and fluffy eggs creates layers of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – serve it hot, warm, or even cold straight from the fridge.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Frittata Recipe

This isn’t just another frittata recipe – it’s a game-changer that combines wholesome ingredients with restaurant-quality results. Here’s what makes it stand out:

  • Naturally Gluten-Free: The sweet potato crust eliminates the need for flour-based crusts
  • Nutrient-Dense: Packed with protein, fiber, vitamins A and C, and iron
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep and busy mornings
  • Customizable: Easily adapt to your dietary preferences
  • Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Suitable for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner

Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Frittata

Let me walk you through what you’ll need to create this stunning dish. I’ve organized everything into two sections for easy reference.

Sweet Potato Crust Ingredients

IngredientAmountNotes
Sweet potato1 largeChoose firm, unblemished potatoes
Olive oil1 teaspoonFor coating the baking dish
Sea saltTo tasteEnhances natural sweetness
Black pepperTo tasteFreshly ground preferred

Frittata Filling Ingredients

IngredientAmountNotes
Eggs8 largeRoom temperature works best
Onion1 mediumYellow or white variety
Spinach1/2 cup frozen or 4 cups freshThawed and drained if frozen
Parmesan cheese1/3 cupShaved or grated
Olive oil2 teaspoonsFor caramelizing onions
Italian seasoning1/2 teaspoonAdds aromatic depth
Sea salt1/4 teaspoon plus moreAdjust to preference
Black pepperTo tasteFreshly ground

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather these essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient:

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create your perfect sweet potato frittata. I’ve broken down each step to ensure foolproof results.

Preparing the Sweet Potato Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F – This high temperature helps create a crispy crust that holds together beautifully.
  1. Prepare the sweet potato – Wash and optionally peel your sweet potato. Using a food processor with the shredding attachment, shred the sweet potato into fine strands. This takes just seconds and creates uniform pieces that cook evenly.
  2. Coat your baking dish – Drizzle 1 teaspoon of olive oil into your baking dish and spread it evenly across the bottom using a paper towel or brush.
  3. Season the sweet potato – Add the shredded sweet potato to the dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  4. Initial bake – Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. This steaming method softens the sweet potato and helps it meld together.

Caramelizing the Onions

  1. Slice the onion – While the sweet potato bakes, use your chef’s knife to thinly slice the onion on your cutting board. Consistent thickness ensures even cooking.
  1. Start caramelizing – Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in your frying pan over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and stir occasionally.
  2. Season and cook – Sprinkle with sea salt and continue cooking, stirring every few minutes. If the onions start to stick or dry out, add a few tablespoons of water instead of more oil. Cook until they’re deeply golden and sweet – about 15-20 minutes.

Assembling the Frittata

  1. Prepare the egg mixture – In a large mixing bowl, crack and beat the 8 eggs until well combined. Mix in the spinach (thawed and drained if frozen, or chopped if fresh), parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, and black pepper.
  2. Cool and compress the crust – When the sweet potato finishes baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. Using a dish towel to protect your hands, loosen the foil and gently press down on the sweet potatoes to compress them into a firm crust. If you let it cool a bit longer, you can shape the crust up the sides of the dish for a beautiful presentation.
  3. Add the filling – Pour the egg mixture over the sweet potato crust, spreading it evenly. Distribute the caramelized onions across the top.
  4. Final bake – Cover the dish tightly with foil and return it to the 425°F oven for 20 minutes.
  1. Finish uncovered – Remove the foil and reduce the oven temperature to 320°F. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the eggs are set in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
  2. Garnish and serve – Sprinkle with extra parmesan cheese and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

After making this recipe countless times, here are my top tips for success:

  • Sweet potato consistency matters – Shred the sweet potato finely for a crust that holds together better than chunky pieces
  • Don’t rush the onions – Proper caramelization takes time. Low and slow is the key to developing deep, sweet flavor
  • Room temperature eggs – They whisk more easily and cook more evenly than cold eggs
  • Test for doneness – The center should be firm but not rubbery. Slight jiggling is okay – it will continue cooking as it cools
  • Make it ahead – This frittata tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld
  • Storage tip – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can adapt it to your preferences:

Protein Additions

  • Crumbled cooked bacon for a bacon frittata variation
  • Diced ham or prosciutto
  • Cooked sausage crumbles
  • Smoked salmon for brunch elegance

Vegetable Variations

  • Roasted bell peppers
  • Sautéed mushrooms
  • Sun-dried tomatoes
  • Zucchini or yellow squash
  • Broccoli florets

Cheese Options

  • Feta for Mediterranean flair
  • Goat cheese for tanginess
  • Cheddar for classic comfort
  • Gruyere for sophisticated flavor
  • Omit cheese entirely for dairy-free

Dietary Modifications

  • Keto frittata: Already low-carb friendly
  • Vegan frittata: Use tofu scramble instead of eggs and nutritional yeast instead of cheese
  • Egg white frittata: Replace whole eggs with egg whites for lower calories
  • Paleo: Simply omit the cheese

Nutritional Information

This sweet potato frittata offers impressive nutritional benefits per serving (based on 6 servings):

NutrientAmount
Calories185
Protein11g
Carbohydrates12g
Fat10g
Fiber2g
Vitamin A120% DV
Calcium12% DV
Iron10% DV

Serving Suggestions

This versatile frittata works for any meal of the day:

For Breakfast or Brunch

  • Serve with fresh fruit salad and whole grain toast
  • Pair with smoked salmon and cream cheese
  • Add a side of crispy hash browns

For Lunch

  • Create a frittata sandwich with crusty bread
  • Serve over mixed greens for a protein-packed salad
  • Pack cold slices for lunch boxes

For Dinner

  • Accompany with roasted vegetables
  • Serve alongside garlic bread and soup
  • Top with avocado and salsa for Tex-Mex flair

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this frittata ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Bake it up to 3 days in advance and store covered in the refrigerator. Reheat slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.

Can I freeze sweet potato frittata?

Yes, this frittata freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Cut into individual portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

The key is properly compressing the sweet potato crust after its initial bake and ensuring your spinach is well-drained. Excess moisture is the enemy of a crispy crust.

Can I use a different type of potato?

While sweet potato provides the best flavor and nutrition, you can use regular white potatoes, Yukon golds, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.

What’s the best pan size for this recipe?

A 9×13 inch baking dish works perfectly. If using a smaller dish, the frittata will be thicker and may need a few extra minutes of baking time.

How do I know when the frittata is done?

The center should be set and not jiggly. Insert a toothpick in the center – it should come out clean. The top will be lightly golden.

Can I make mini frittatas instead?

Definitely! Divide the mixture among greased muffin tins for mini frittata recipes. Reduce baking time to about 20-25 minutes total at 350°F.

Is this recipe suitable for keto?

Yes! This sweet potato frittata is relatively low in carbs and high in protein and healthy fats, making it keto-friendly. One serving contains approximately 12g net carbs.

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to this exceptional frittata lies in the technique. The sweet potato crust isn’t just a creative substitute – it adds nutritional value while creating a sturdy base that doesn’t become soggy. Baking it covered first allows the sweet potato to steam and soften, while the compression step melds everything together.

Caramelizing the onions low and slow develops natural sugars that add incredible depth of flavor. Combined with the earthy spinach and sharp parmesan, every bite offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes.

The two-stage baking process ensures the eggs cook gently and evenly without becoming rubbery. Covering the dish initially traps moisture for tender eggs, while the final uncovered bake creates a beautifully set surface.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Potato Frittata with Spinach and Caramelized Onions proves that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. It’s a recipe that impresses at brunch gatherings yet simple enough for weekday mornings. The combination of nutrient-dense ingredients, foolproof technique, and incredible taste makes it a keeper you’ll return to again and again.

Whether you’re looking for egg dishes for dinner, frittata recipes breakfast options, or simply want to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, this recipe delivers on every front. The best part? Leftovers (if you have any) taste phenomenal reheated or served cold – making it the ultimate meal prep solution.

Ready to create your own masterpiece? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get cooking! Don’t forget to share your results and let me know what variations you try.


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Sweet Potato Frittata with Caramelized Onions : Easy Breakfast Recipe

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This Sweet Potato Frittata with Spinach and Caramelized Onions features a crispy sweet potato crust, fluffy eggs, tender spinach, and sweet caramelized onions. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner – naturally gluten-free and packed with nutrients!

  • Author: Alice
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 65 minutes
  • Total Time: 80 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Sweet Potato Crust:

1 teaspoon olive oil

1 large sweet potato

Sea salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Frittata:

2 teaspoons olive oil

1 onion, thinly sliced

Sea salt to taste

8 large eggs

1/2 cup frozen spinach (or 4 cups fresh)

1/3 cup parmesan cheese, shaved or grated

1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.

2. Shred the sweet potatoes using a food processor (peeling first is optional).

3. Coat the bottom of a baking dish with 1 teaspoon olive oil.

4. Add the sweet potatoes and lightly season with sea salt and black pepper.

5. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

6. While sweet potatoes bake, thinly slice the onion and add to a frying pan with 2 teaspoons olive oil. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until softened. Season with sea salt. Add a few tablespoons of water if dry. Set aside when very soft and caramelized.

7. Beat the eggs and mix in thawed spinach (or chopped fresh spinach), parmesan, and spices.

8. When sweet potatoes are done, remove baking dish and let cool for 5-10 minutes.

9. After cooling, loosen foil and use a dish towel to protect your hand. Compress the sweet potatoes to form a crust, shaping up the sides if desired.

10. Once crust is formed, add egg mixture. Top with caramelized onions.

11. Cover dish tightly with foil and bake at 425°F for 20 minutes.

12. Remove foil and lower oven temperature to 320°F. Bake for another 10-15 minutes until eggs are firm in the center.

13. Sprinkle with extra parmesan and serve.

Notes

The sweet potato crust can be prepared the night before and stored in the fridge.

If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water.

This frittata keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can be served hot, warm, or cold.

Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.

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