Ready in: 40 minutes · Serves: 12 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.Quick Answer
To make delightful Frittata Cups, whisk together eggs and milk, blend in seasonal vegetables and cheese, pour into a greased muffin tin, and bake until golden.As the vibrant autumn leaves begin to fall here in New York City, I'm reminded of the cozy gatherings that define the holiday season. Thanksgiving and Christmas are fast approaching, and with them comes the excitement of family meals. This year, I'm particularly looking forward to serving my festive Frittata Cups. They're not only easy to make but are also a delightful way to showcase seasonal vegetables and fresh herbs.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
The Frittata Cups serve as a perfect blend of flavor and ease, making them an ideal dish for your holiday gatherings. They carry the warmth of home cooking, allowing us to connect with family through shared meals and cherished traditions.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare, making them a perfect choice for busy holiday gatherings.
- Customizable with seasonal vegetables and herbs, allowing for endless flavor combinations.
- Perfectly portioned for serving, making them an attractive addition to any meal.
- Can be made ahead of time and quickly reheated for a convenient and delicious breakfast or snack.
- Great way to use up leftover ingredients, reducing food waste while creating something delightful.
Ingredients
Gathering quality ingredients is a crucial step in my cooking process. Here's what you'll need for these vibrant Frittata Cups:
Eggs and Dairy
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup of whole milk
Vegetables
- 1 cup of finely chopped vegetables (I love using bell peppers, spinach, and red onions)
Cheese
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella is divine)
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish
Greasing
- Cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil for greasing the muffin tin
How to Make Frittata Cups (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to create delicious and festive Frittata Cups for your holiday gatherings.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). I can always sense the anticipation in the air as the oven warms up, especially when the aroma of the first batch fills the kitchen.
Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Tin
Generously spray or oil the muffin tin. I've often found that this step is crucial in ensuring your frittata cups come out cleanly and don't stick-nobody wants to deal with a broken frittata.
Step 3: Whisk the Eggs and Milk
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and whole milk until the mixture is frothy and well combined. The texture should be silky, and you should see a few bubbles forming.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables and Cheese
Gently fold in your desired vegetables and cheese, making sure every bit is coated with the egg mixture. The colors of the veggies will brighten as you mix, creating a beautiful palette in your bowl.
Step 5: Season
Sprinkle in the salt and pepper to taste. Don't shy away from this step-seasoning is key!
Step 6: Fill the Muffin Cups
Pour the egg and vegetable mixture into each muffin cup, filling them about three-quarters full. This will allow room for the frittatas to puff up slightly while they bake.
Step 7: Bake
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick comes out clean. The nutty aroma wafting through your kitchen at this point will be nearly irresistible!
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the frittata cups cool for a few minutes before gently pulling them out of the tin. Sprinkle fresh herbs on top for a fragrant finish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling the muffin cups can cause the frittatas to overflow while baking, creating a mess.
- Not whisking enough will lead to a less fluffy texture; aim for a light and airy blend!
- Skipping the grease can lead to sticky frittatas that won't pop out easily.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or meats-leftover roasted veggies work wonderfully.
- For an extra indulgent touch, add some crispy bacon lardons or sautéed mushrooms.
- These frittata cups can be made a day ahead; simply warm them in the oven before serving.
Variations
- Use zucchini or mushrooms instead of bell peppers.
- Incorporate cooked sausage or ham for added protein.
- Try different cheeses like feta or gouda for unique flavors.
How to Serve
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light lunch or brunch option.
- Serve warm or at room temperature for casual gatherings.
- Garnish with extra herbs or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the frittata cups a day in advance and store them in the fridge.
- Storage: Store leftover frittata cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick breakfast or snack.
- Freezing: These frittata cups can be frozen; wrap them individually and store in an airtight container for up to one month.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
After testing this recipe, I realized how versatile frittata cups can be-they're not only great for breakfast but also make a lovely brunch option during the holiday season. Plus, I've discovered the joy of using up leftover vegetables, transforming them into a delightful, elegant dish that my family loves.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 12 frittata cups · Serving Size: 1 frittata cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~150 calories · 8g protein · 4g carbs · 10g fat
Recipe by:
Festive Frittata Cups for Holiday Gatherings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease the muffin tin generously with cooking spray or olive oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and whole milk until frothy.
- Gently fold in the finely chopped vegetables and shredded cheese.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the mixture into each muffin cup, filling them about three-quarters full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the tops are golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin and garnishing with fresh herbs.
Notes
FAQs
Can I use egg substitutes in this recipe?
Yes! You can use egg substitutes like silken tofu or commercial egg replacers. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
What vegetables work best in frittata cups?
Spinach, bell peppers, red onions, zucchini, and mushrooms are great choices. Feel free to experiment with your favorites!
Can I make these frittata cups in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day ahead. Just store them in an airtight container and reheat before serving.
How do I store leftover frittata cups?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.
What can I serve with frittata cups?
They're delicious on their own or served with a fresh salad, toasted bread, or a side of fruit for a complete meal.
