Frittata di Pasta: A Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

Frittata di Pasta, or pasta frittata, is a delightful and resourceful Italian dish that combines leftover pasta with eggs, creating a filling meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. This dish is perfect for a brunch, a light lunch, or even a dinner when you’re looking for something quick and easy. From my own personal experience, it’s a fantastic way to minimize food waste while enjoying a comforting and tasty meal. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to use whatever pasta and ingredients you have on hand. Let me show you how I make this delicious dish.

What to Expect

When you make Frittata di Pasta, you can expect a beautifully cooked dish with a crispy exterior and a soft, savory interior. The flavors of the pasta, vegetables, and cheese meld together, creating a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any time of day.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Time to Stand: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Easy
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Cost of Ingredients: Around $8-$12 (depending on pasta and additional ingredients used)
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main Dish

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Non-stick frying pan (10-12 inches)
• Spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Oven-safe dish (optional, for finishing under the broiler)
• Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a Savory  #frittatadipasta  here.

Ingredients

• Leftover Pasta: 2 cups (spaghetti, penne, or any pasta you have)
• Eggs: 6 large
• Milk: 1/4 cup (optional for creaminess)
• Cheese: 1 cup grated (Parmesan, mozzarella, or a mix)
• Vegetables: 1 cup (e.g., chopped bell peppers, spinach, onions, or zucchini)
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Salt and Pepper: to taste
• Fresh Herbs: (optional) basil or parsley for garnish
• Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a Savory  #frittatadipasta  here.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven (Optional): If you plan to finish the frittata in the oven, preheat it to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Pasta: If you don’t have leftover pasta, cook your pasta according to package instructions, then drain and let cool slightly.
3. Whisk the Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add the milk, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the leftover pasta, grated cheese, and your choice of chopped vegetables to the egg mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
5. Heat the Pan: In a non-stick frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Ensure the oil coats the bottom of the pan evenly.
6. Cook the Frittata Base: Pour the pasta and egg mixture into the hot pan, spreading it out evenly. Cook for about 5-7 minutes without stirring, until the bottom is set and lightly browned.
7. Finish Cooking:
   • On the Stovetop: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and cook for another 8-10 minutes until the frittata is mostly set but slightly wobbly in the center.
   • In the Oven: Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the frittata is fully set and slightly golden on top.
8. Cool and Serve: Once cooked, let the frittata stand for about 5 minutes. Slice into wedges and serve warm or at room temperature. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Variations

• Add Protein: Incorporate diced cooked ham, sausage, or leftover chicken for a heartier meal.
• Vegetarian Options: Use a variety of seasonal vegetables like asparagus, mushrooms, or kale for a fresh twist.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or feta for unique flavors.
• Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a Savory  #frittatadipasta  here.

Tips and Substitutions

• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free milk substitute and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
• Gluten-Free: Swap traditional pasta with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
• Herbs and Spices: Feel free to add dried herbs like oregano or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (Approximate)

• Calories: 250-300
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 2g

I hope this guide has made making Frittata di Pasta seem a little less daunting! Have you tried it before? Please, be honest, and let me know in the comments below. I love to hear feedback from a real person like you, so please, leave your honest comment! Enjoy your cooking!