If you have never thought of combining savory with a hint of sweet in a brunch dish, let me introduce you to an absolute winner: the Apple Ham and Cheese Frittata Recipe. It’s the perfect harmony of crisp, tender hash browns, juicy diced apples, salty ham, and a medley of cheeses all wrapped up in fluffy, golden eggs. This dish isn’t just a quick fix; it’s a comforting celebration on a plate that brings together flavors and textures in the most delightful way. Whether you’re cooking for a weekend brunch or a cozy dinner, this frittata will quickly become your new favorite go-to recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, quality ingredients is all you need to make this Apple Ham and Cheese Frittata Recipe shine. Each one plays a crucial role, from the crispy hash browns creating a golden bed, to the tartness of the Granny Smith apple balancing the salty ham and melty cheese.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps crisp the hash browns perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon butter: For a buttery depth in cooking your vegetables.
- 2-3 cups shredded hash browns: The hearty base that adds texture and crunch.
- 1 teaspoon cracked pepper: Gives a fresh, spicy kick throughout the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for drawing out flavor and seasoning evenly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used again for sautéing the onions and apples.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds a lovely richness when cooking the sweet onion and apple.
- 1 sweet yellow onion (diced): Provides sweetness and a delicate bite.
- 1 Granny Smith apple (diced): Lends a bright, tart contrast to the savory elements.
- 1/2 cup gruyere cheese (diced or shredded): Brings a nutty, melty indulgence.
- 1/2 cup Mexican blend cheese (shredded): Adds gooey texture and mild flavor complexity.
- 1 teaspoon Parisien herb blend: If unavailable, basil or tarragon work beautifully for fresh herbal notes.
- 8 large eggs: The protein-packed base that holds everything together.
- 1.5 tablespoon milk (or water): Keeps the eggs light and fluffy.
- 1 cup cooked ham (diced): Salty and savory, it complements the sweetness of the apple perfectly (sausage or bacon can be used too).
How to Make Apple Ham and Cheese Frittata Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Hash Browns Base
Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil and a tablespoon of butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Spread the shredded hash browns evenly in the pan, seasoning them with salt and cracked pepper. Let them cook undisturbed until golden and crispy on the bottom, about 7-10 minutes. This crispy base will be the foundation of your frittata, adding a wonderful crunchy texture that contrasts the soft interior.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Apples
In a separate pan, warm 1 tablespoon olive oil with 1 tablespoon butter. Add diced yellow onion and cook until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Toss in the diced Granny Smith apple and sauté for another 3-4 minutes, letting the fruit soften while maintaining a little bite. This step is key to marrying the savory and sweet flavors that make this Apple Ham and Cheese Frittata Recipe so unique.
Step 3: Combine and Add Cheese, Ham, and Eggs
Once your hash browns are crispy, evenly spread the apple and onion mixture on top. Sprinkle the diced ham, gruyere, and Mexican blend cheeses over the top, letting the cheese start to melt slightly from the residual heat. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and Parisien herb blend until just combined, then pour the mixture gently over everything, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Reduce the heat to low and cook until the edges begin to set, approximately 5 minutes.
Step 4: Finish Cooking in the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the skillet in the oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the frittata is fully set and golden on top. The oven finish ensures the eggs cook through without burning the base while incorporating all those amazing flavors evenly.
How to Serve Apple Ham and Cheese Frittata Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives instantly brightens up your frittata. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil to add creaminess and a hint of freshness that complements the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This frittata pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides. Think a green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted cherry tomatoes to add juiciness. For a heartier spread, crusty bread or garlic toast makes an unbeatable companion to soak up any extra cheese or runny egg bits.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch gatherings, slice the frittata into wedges and serve it on a wooden board surrounded by fresh fruit and nuts for an inviting, rustic look. You can also make mini versions in muffin tins for easy grab-and-go portions that are perfect for parties or meal prep.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Apple Ham and Cheese Frittata Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it completely before storing to maintain texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of the frittata by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then placing in a freezer-safe container. It keeps well for up to 2 months — perfect for when you have a busy week and still want a home-cooked meal waiting.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Microwaving works too for a quick fix, but it can impact texture slightly. A low and slow approach in the oven helps preserve the frittata’s delightful layers perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in the Apple Ham and Cheese Frittata Recipe?
Absolutely! While Gruyere and the Mexican blend add distinctive flavors and melt well, you can substitute with cheddar, mozzarella, or fontina for different but equally delicious results. Just choose cheeses that melt nicely for best texture.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, this Apple Ham and Cheese Frittata Recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. It reheats well and provides a balanced meal with protein, carbs, and veggies. Slice it into portions and store individually for quick breakfasts or lunches throughout the week.
What can I use instead of Granny Smith apples?
If Granny Smith apples are not available, other tart apples like Honeycrisp or Braeburn can be used. They maintain the necessary tang to balance the savory ham and cheese and soften nicely during cooking.
Can I make this frittata vegetarian?
Definitely. Simply omit the ham and consider adding extra vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to keep it hearty and satisfying while still enjoying the sweet and savory flavor combo.
What size skillet is best for this recipe?
A 10-12 inch oven-safe skillet works best for this recipe. It allows enough surface area for the hash browns to crisp nicely while accommodating the egg mixture so the frittata cooks evenly.
Final Thoughts
Bringing together the unexpected sweetness of apple with the savory punch of ham and cheese in a fluffy frittata is nothing short of magic. Once you try this Apple Ham and Cheese Frittata Recipe, it will surely become a staple for your brunch table or any time you want a hearty, flavorful meal. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a go—it’s simple, satisfying, and bursting with texture and tastes that feel like a warm hug.
Print
Apple Ham and Cheese Frittata Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Apple Ham and Cheese Frittata combines savory ham, melty cheeses, and the sweet-tart crunch of diced Granny Smith apples in a fluffy baked egg dish. Perfect for brunch or a satisfying breakfast, this recipe features golden shredded hash browns as a base, sautéed onions and apples, and a herby blend to add brightness. The frittata is cooked on the stovetop and finished in the oven, creating a deliciously tender and flavorful meal that serves eight.
Ingredients
Base
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2–3 cups shredded hash browns
- 1 teaspoon cracked pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Sautéed Mix
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 sweet yellow onion, diced
- 1 Granny Smith apple, diced
- 1 teaspoon Parisien herb blend (or substitute with basil, tarragon, or a combination)
Cheese
- 1/2 cup Gruyere cheese, diced or shredded
- 1/2 cup Mexican blend cheese, shredded
Egg Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- 1.5 tablespoons milk or water
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced (can substitute with sausage, bacon, or other meat)
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add 2-3 cups of shredded hash browns, seasoning them with 1 teaspoon cracked pepper and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the hash browns are golden and crispy on the bottom, about 7-8 minutes.
- Sauté onions and apples: In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add the diced sweet yellow onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the diced Granny Smith apple and the Parisien herb blend, sautéing until the apples soften slightly, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Combine eggs and fillings: In a large bowl, whisk together 8 large eggs and 1.5 tablespoons of milk or water until smooth. Stir in the sautéed onion and apple mixture, 1 cup diced cooked ham, 1/2 cup Gruyere cheese, and 1/2 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese. Pour this mixture evenly over the crispy hash browns in the skillet.
- Cook the frittata on the stovetop: Reduce the heat to low and cook uncovered for about 5-6 minutes, allowing the edges to set while the center remains loose.
- Finish baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake until the frittata is completely set and the top is slightly golden, about 12-15 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve: Slice the frittata into 8 servings and serve warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or light fruit compote.
Notes
- Use an oven-safe skillet such as cast iron to easily transfer from stovetop to oven.
- You can substitute the ham with other cooked meats like bacon, sausage, or turkey according to preference.
- If Parisien herb blend is unavailable, basil and tarragon make a great substitute or you can use Italian seasoning.
- For a lighter version, substitute milk with water and use less cheese.
- The hash browns can be homemade or store-bought shredded potatoes; just make sure they’re well-drained of excess moisture to ensure crispiness.
- Let the frittata rest a few minutes after baking to firm up for easier slicing.
