Frittata di Pasta
Frittata di Pasta is a savory Italian-inspired dish that transforms leftover pasta into a crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside frittata using eggs, cheese, and simple pantry staples. Quick to prepare and highly versatile, it makes a satisfying meal for breakfast, lunch, or dinner with endless customization options.
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free pasta)
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli; ideally day-old)
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients
- Fresh herbs (basil, parsley, or oregano), finely chopped
- Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes (for vegetarian variation)
- Cooked sausages, pancetta, or bacon (for meaty addition)
- Alternative cheeses: mozzarella, goat cheese, ricotta
- Chili flakes or chopped fresh chili peppers (for spicy kick)
- Gluten-free pasta (for gluten-free option)
- Prepare Your Pasta Base: Begin with about 2 cups of cooked pasta, ideally cold and a little dry from refrigeration overnight to help the frittata hold together better. If using freshly cooked pasta, cook it al dente, drain well, and let it cool briefly.
- Whisk the Eggs and Seasonings: In a mixing bowl, whisk 4 large eggs until smooth. Add ½ cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese, and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Optionally fold in finely chopped fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Combine Pasta and Egg Mixture: Carefully fold the pasta into the egg mixture, ensuring all noodles are evenly coated so the pasta absorbs the egg and binds into a cohesive frittata.
- Cook the Frittata: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in the pasta and egg mixture, spreading it evenly. Cook without stirring for 5-7 minutes until edges set and bottom is golden brown and crisp.
- Finish Cooking: To cook the top, either carefully flip the frittata using a large plate, then slide it back into the pan, or place the skillet under a preheated broiler for 3-5 minutes until fully set and browned on top.
- Serve Warm or Room Temperature: Slide the cooked frittata onto a serving plate, slice into wedges, and enjoy warm or slightly cooled as a tasty room-temperature snack.
Notes
- Use day-old pasta for better texture and binding.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet to allow even cooking and a crispy bottom.
- Use plenty of olive oil to achieve a golden crust.
- Cook over medium or medium-low heat to avoid burning and allow eggs to set.
- Try different cheeses to vary flavor profiles and textures.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of frittata
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
Keywords: Frittata di Pasta, leftover pasta recipe, Italian frittata, pasta frittata, easy pasta dish, gluten free pasta recipe, one-pan meal