A frazzled dad rushed into my café last Sunday, desperate for breakfast inspiration. “My in-laws arrive in two hours, and I promised a fancy brunch!” I smiled, knowing exactly what would save him. “Try my Brussels sprouts and bacon frittata,” I suggested, scribbling down my recipe. He texted me later: “They asked if I secretly attended culinary school! The caramelized sprouts and crispy bacon bits were genius.” Sometimes the most impressive dishes are simply clever combinations of what’s already in your fridge.
History & Origin
Although the frittata traces its roots to 19th-century Italy, its journey to becoming a beloved breakfast staple is a testament to culinary innovation.
The Italian dish showcases remarkable versatility, allowing cooks to incorporate ingredients like Brussels sprouts and bacon. Explore how traditional culinary practices transformed this simple egg-based recipe into a nourishing meal.
Brussels sprouts, cultivated since the 16th century in Belgium, bring an earthy dimension to the frittata. Chefs and home cooks alike appreciate the savory balance of ingredients, making this dish a popular feature on modern brunch menus.
Embrace the frittata’s rich historical narrative.
Recipe
Frittatas are versatile, delicious egg-based dishes that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. This Brussels sprouts and bacon frittata combines the rich, smoky flavor of crispy bacon with the slightly nutty and earthy taste of roasted Brussels sprouts, creating a hearty and satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and delectable.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. By using just a few key ingredients and cooking techniques, you can transform ordinary eggs into an impressive dish that’s sure to please a crowd. The combination of crispy bacon, caramelized Brussels sprouts, and fluffy eggs makes this frittata a true culinary delight.
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound bacon, diced
- 3/4 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 8 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons whole milk or cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Grated cheese for topping
Equipment
- 10-inch ovenproof skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Broiler
Instructions
- Preheat broiler to high
- Cook diced bacon in skillet over medium heat until crisp
- Remove bacon, leaving rendered fat in pan
- Sauté Brussels sprouts in bacon fat until caramelized
- Whisk eggs with milk, salt, and pepper
- Return bacon to skillet with Brussels sprouts
- Pour egg mixture over vegetables and bacon
- Cook on stovetop until edges set
- Transfer skillet to broiler
- Broil 2-3 minutes until top is golden brown
- Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes
- Slice and serve
Nutrition
600 kcal | 12g Carbohydrates | 35g Protein | 48g Fat | 15g Saturated Fat | 8g Polyunsaturated Fat | 20g Monounsaturated Fat | 440mg Cholesterol | 880mg Sodium | 620mg Potassium | 1200 IU Vitamin A | 85mg Vitamin C | 180mg Calcium | 3mg Iron
Cooking Tips
When preparing this frittata, ensure your skillet is truly ovenproof to prevent handle melting or potential breakage. For best results, use a cast-iron or stainless steel skillet. Don’t overcook the eggs under the broiler; watch carefully to achieve a golden brown top without burning. For added flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or experiment with different types of cheese as a topping.
Serving Suggestions
Serving the Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Frittata offers numerous delightful options for presentation and pairing. The dish shines when topped with crispy bacon bits, fresh thyme leaves, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, creating a visually appealing and flavor-packed meal.
For a complete dining experience, serve alongside a vibrant arugula salad featuring sliced dates and crunchy breadcrumbs, which provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory frittata. Its versatility allows for serving warm or at room temperature, making it an ideal choice for brunch, breakfast in bed, or a casual gathering with friends.
Common Mistakes & Troubleshooting
When preparing this frittata, home cooks often struggle with achieving the perfect texture. In my own experience, I once overcooked the eggs, resulting in a dry, rubbery frittata that lost its creamy consistency.
To avoid this, watch the cooking time carefully and remove the frittata from heat when the center is just set but still slightly jiggly. Use medium-low heat when cooking on the stovetop and finish under the broiler, keeping a close eye to prevent overcooking.
Another common pitfall isn’t properly seasoning the eggs or failing to distribute the Brussels sprouts and bacon evenly throughout the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Put Brussels Sprouts in Frittata?
I’d recommend thinly slicing Brussels sprouts and sautéing them first. They’ll add amazing nutrition, a delightful texture, and when paired with bacon and cheese, they’ll create a seriously delicious frittata that’ll impress your taste buds.
Why Do You Soak Brussel Sprouts Before Cooking?
I soak Brussels sprouts to remove dirt, reduce bitterness, and revive their crispness. By soaking for 10-15 minutes in cold water, I ensure cleaner, tastier sprouts that’ll be more appealing when I cook them in my dish.
When to Add Bacon to Brussels Sprouts?
I recommend adding bacon first, letting it crisp up in the skillet for 5-7 minutes. Then, remove the bacon and use its rendered fat to sauté the Brussels sprouts until tender, infusing them with rich, smoky flavor.
Why Won’t My Brussels Sprouts Get Crispy?
I’ve found that overcrowding the pan and not using high enough heat prevents crispy Brussels sprouts. Ensure even cutting, spread them out, and cook at 400°F with enough fat to promote caramelization and that perfect crunch.
Final Thoughts
This frittata transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting brunch, it proves that nutrition and flavor can coexist beautifully. With its versatile nature and straightforward preparation, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and again.
Curious about another way to enjoy these flavors? Check out our recipe for Roasted Red Pepper and Ricotta Frittata for a delicious twist on this breakfast favorite.
