A frittata is a classic Italian omelet, made with beaten eggs and a mix of meats, vegetables, dairy (like milk or cream), and cheeses. It’s a filling, hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion and can be served hot or cold. The Air Fryer Frittata makes meal prep a breeze without sacrificing flavor and also keeps well as leftovers when refrigerated!
What Do You Need to Make an Air Fryer Frittata?
To create a perfectly fluffy air-fried frittata, you’ll need an air fryer. I recommend using the Cuisinart Air Fryer Oven, but any air fryer should work well. You’ll also need a dish to cook the frittata in. For this recipe, I use either a square or round 9-inch cake pan. To ensure an easy cleanup, I line the pan with parchment paper, which also helps lift the frittata out effortlessly.
Note: You can use any oven-safe baking dish that fits your air fryer. Just make sure it can hold the ingredients, aiming for about a ¼-inch thickness for the frittata. It will rise as it cooks. If you’re using a smaller pan, you may need to cook it a bit longer to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Ingredients Needed:
- Eggs: 4 large eggs.
- Vegetables: I use sautéed mushrooms and onions, bell peppers, and fresh diced tomatoes.
- A Splash of Milk: You can substitute with cream or heavy cream for a richer texture.
- Meats of Your Choice: I love diced ham, but cooked bacon bits or even a meatless version work well.
- Cheese: A blend of shredded Cheddar and Mozzarella.
- Herbs and Spices: To enhance flavor, add a mix of garlic, onion, and herbs like fresh spinach.
How to Make an Air Fryer Frittata:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set it to 400°F (200°C), as most air fryers only need a couple of minutes to preheat.
- Prepare the Eggs: Crack the eggs into a bowl, whisk in salt and pepper to taste, and add a splash of milk or cream.
- Add Toppings: Incorporate your choice of toppings, like ham, cheese, chopped tomatoes, sautéed vegetables, and herbs.
- Mix and Pour: Whisk the ingredients together until well-combined and pour the mixture into your prepared oven-safe dish.
- Cook: Air fry for 6-7 minutes for a fluffy frittata. If you prefer a firmer texture, cook for 7-8 minutes, and for a well-done version, cook for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking. The frittata should remain moist and delicious!
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the frittata from the air fryer and let it rest for 2 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy with a slice of toast, if desired.
How to Know When an Air Fryer Frittata is Done:
You can tell when the frittata is ready by checking the top, which should have a glossy finish with some golden-brown spots. Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the frittata is done! Since air fryer temperatures vary, the toothpick test is a reliable indicator. Set a timer according to the recipe to help avoid overcooking.
How to Store Frittata:
Allow the frittata to cool for about 10 minutes before storing. Keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 4 months. To reheat, place it in the preheated air fryer at 375°F for 2 minutes per side, or microwave it for 40-50 seconds until warmed through.
Topping and Flavor Variations:
Explore different flavors with these topping ideas:
- Bacon or Sausage: Crumbled bacon or cooked sausage adds flavor and texture.
- Cheese and Herbs: Try feta cheese, olives, and fresh herbs like chives or tarragon for a unique twist.
- Sweet Variations: Caramelized onions, apples, or pears offer a sweet contrast to the savory base.
- For Extra Creaminess: Swap regular potatoes with sweet potatoes or chopped squash for a richer frittata.