Print

Frittata di Pasta

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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

Keywords: Frittata di Pasta, leftover pasta recipe, Italian frittata, pasta frittata, easy pasta dish, gluten free pasta recipe, one-pan meal