If you’re looking for a light yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick dinner, then this Asparagus and Ricotta Frittata Recipe is going to be your new favorite. I absolutely love how the fresh asparagus combined with creamy ricotta cheese creates a delicate, custard-like texture that feels indulgent but still fresh and bright. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll find yourself making it all spring and summer long.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Creamy Flavor: The blend of tender asparagus with ricotta and Parmesan creates a luscious, comforting taste.
- Simple but Elegant: With just a handful of ingredients, you can make a beautiful dish that feels special enough to serve guests.
- Versatile Meal Option: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or an easy dinner, and easy to customize with your favorite herbs or toppings.
- Hands-Off Baking: The oven does most of the work here, freeing you up to get other things done or set the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together beautifully for a frittata that’s creamy, fresh, and packed with flavor. Picking the right asparagus and ricotta makes all the difference, so I usually shop for the freshest asparagus I can find and opt for whole milk ricotta for that creamy texture.
- Baby Asparagus: Thinner spears work best because they cook quickly and blend well into the frittata.
- Large Eggs: These are the base and provide the custardy texture you want in a frittata.
- Whole Milk Ricotta: I like to divide this – some mixes into the eggs and some dollops on top for bursts of creaminess.
- Whole Milk: Using full-fat dairy is key to keeping the frittata creamy and rich.
- Parmesan Cheese: Finely grated for sharp flavor and to help the frittata set beautifully.
- Fresh Chives and Dill: These herbs add brightness and depth – I always add a little extra on top.
- Dijon Mustard: Just a hint adds a lovely tang and helps balance the richness.
- Kosher Salt & Pepper: To season perfectly and bring all the flavors together.
Variations
I love making this recipe my own depending on what’s in season or what I have on hand. Feel free to switch things up with different cheeses, herbs, or veggies. Personalizing it keeps the dish exciting and fresh every time you make it.
- With Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: I added roasted cherry tomatoes once, and the sweet acidity perfectly complemented the creamy ricotta and asparagus.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use a plant-based ricotta and milk alternative if you’re avoiding dairy – just keep an eye on the consistency so it stays custardy.
- Cheese Swaps: Try feta or goat cheese instead of ricotta for a tangier flavor profile that pairs amazingly with asparagus.
- Herb Variations: Fresh basil or tarragon also bring a fresh, aromatic twist that livens up the frittata beautifully.
How to Make Asparagus and Ricotta Frittata Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F with the rack in the center. I make sure to grease a 9-inch or 8×10-inch baking pan generously with non-stick spray – trust me, you don’t want your frittata sticking. Then, line the pan with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over so you can easily lift the frittata out later. This little trick makes serving a breeze and helps keep the frittata intact.
Step 2: Blanch and Shock the Asparagus
Here’s a trick I learned that really pays off: blanch your asparagus before baking it in the frittata. Boil salted water, then cook the asparagus for 1-2 minutes until they’re bright green and tender-crisp—just perfect. Immediately plunge them into an ice water bath to “shock” the asparagus and stop the cooking process. Pat dry and set aside. This step ensures your asparagus stays crisp-tender and happy, not mushy.
Step 3: Whisk Up the Egg Custard
Time to mix the magic! In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, 2 tablespoons of ricotta, whole milk, Parmesan, chives, dill, Dijon mustard, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. I like to whisk vigorously until everything is fully combined and frothy – this helps the frittata puff up nicely. Set this mixture aside while you lay out the asparagus.
Step 4: Layer and Assemble
Arrange half of the blanched asparagus in a single row at the bottom of your prepared pan. Pour the egg mixture over the asparagus, then lay the remaining asparagus spears on top in a neat row. Dollop on the remaining ricotta and season with a little more salt and pepper. This layering not only looks stunning but ensures every slice has those beautiful asparagus ribbons.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the frittata in your preheated oven and bake for about 28-38 minutes. Keep an eye on it after 25 minutes—when the frittata rises and just sets, with no jiggle in the center, it’s ready! Be careful not to overbake or it’ll turn dry and rubbery, which no one wants. Let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then carefully lift out with the parchment paper and transfer to a serving platter.
Pro Tips for Making Asparagus and Ricotta Frittata Recipe
- Use Fresh, Thin Asparagus: Thinner spears cook quickly and evenly, so they stay tender and don’t overpower the delicate eggs.
- Don’t Skip Blanching: I used to toss asparagus raw into frittatas and ended up with unevenly cooked spears. Blanching fixes that perfectly.
- Watch Your Bake Time Closely: I learned to check around 28 minutes; your oven might vary. The frittata should be puffed and just set, not jiggly.
- Let It Rest Before Cutting: This helps the frittata hold its shape when sliced, so your serving looks just as gorgeous as it tastes.
How to Serve Asparagus and Ricotta Frittata Recipe
Garnishes
I love topping mine with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan, extra chives, and sometimes a few fresh dill sprigs for that herbal punch. If I’m serving brunch, I’ll add thin slices of prosciutto or smoked salmon on the side—these add a luxurious salty contrast that makes the meal feel extra special.
Side Dishes
Pair this frittata with a simple seasonal green salad or some buttery roasted potatoes for a fuller spread. On warmer days, grilled veggies or a light tomato salad work wonders to keep things fresh and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For a spring brunch gathering, I’ve arranged slices of the frittata on a large wooden platter, interspersed with roasted cherry tomatoes and small clusters of arugula. It’s a gorgeous, rustic presentation that always wows guests and invites everyone to dig in family-style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually cool leftover frittata completely and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The texture stays surprisingly good, and it makes for a perfect quick meal the next day.
Freezing
I’ve had success freezing individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. The flavor holds up well, with just a slight softening of texture.
Reheating
To reheat, I place slices on a baking sheet and warm them in a 325°F oven for 10-12 minutes until heated through. This method keeps the edges crisp and prevents sogginess like the microwave sometimes does.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen asparagus for this frittata recipe?
While fresh asparagus is ideal for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen asparagus if it’s well-drained and thawed properly. I recommend blanching and shocking frozen asparagus as well to prevent sogginess before adding it to the frittata.
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What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If ricotta isn’t available, cottage cheese blended until smooth or a creamy goat cheese can be good substitutes, though they will slightly change the flavor and texture. For dairy-free options, try plant-based ricotta alternatives.
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How do I know when the frittata is fully cooked?
The frittata is done when it’s puffed up and set with no wobble in the center. A good test is to gently shake the pan—if the center jiggles or looks liquidy, it needs more time. Also, edges will start to pull slightly away from the pan when done.
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Can I make this frittata ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and bake the frittata ahead and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 2 days. Serve it cold or reheat gently in the oven for best results.
Final Thoughts
This Asparagus and Ricotta Frittata Recipe has become an absolute staple in my kitchen because it’s effortlessly elegant, packed with flavor, and so versatile. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something fresh and comforting, you’ll appreciate how every bite bursts with those herbaceous notes and creamy textures. I’m excited for you to try it out — once you do, I bet it’ll become a recipe you come back to again and again, just like I do.
Print
Asparagus and Ricotta Frittata Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Asparagus Frittata is a creamy, flavorful baked egg dish featuring tender blanched asparagus, ricotta, Parmesan, fresh herbs, and a hint of Dijon mustard. Perfect for a nutritious brunch or light dinner, it combines a fluffy custard texture with the fresh crunch of asparagus, baked to golden perfection in the oven.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 pound Baby Asparagus – trimmed
- 2 tablespoons Chives – thinly sliced, plus more for garnish
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Dill – chopped, plus more for garnish
Dairy
- 8 large Eggs
- ¾ cup Whole Milk Ricotta – divided (6 ounces total)
- 1/3 cup Whole Milk
- ¼ cup Parmesan – finely grated, plus more for garnish
Pantry
- 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
- Kosher Salt – as needed
- Freshly ground Black Pepper – as needed
Optional Garnish
- Prosciutto
- Smoked Salmon
- Arugula
- Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
- Fresh Herbs
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare Pan: Arrange the oven rack to the center position and preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9-inch or 8×10-inch baking pan generously with non-stick cooking spray, then line it with parchment paper with edges hanging over for easy removal.
- Blanch and Shock Asparagus: Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add asparagus and cook for 1-2 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately transfer asparagus to an ice water bath to halt cooking. Drain thoroughly and pat dry.
- Prepare Egg Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, 2 tablespoons ricotta, whole milk, Parmesan, chives, dill, Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Assemble the Frittata: Arrange half of the asparagus in a single row inside the prepared pan. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the asparagus. Lay the remaining asparagus spears in a single row on top. Dollop the remaining ricotta around the top and lightly season with salt and pepper.
- Bake Asparagus Frittata: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 28 to 38 minutes. The frittata should be puffed, risen, and just set in the center without any jiggle. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes.
- Remove and Serve: Using the parchment paper edges, carefully lift the frittata out of the pan onto a serving platter. Cut into slices between the asparagus rows. Garnish with additional fresh herbs, Parmesan, and optional prosciutto or smoked salmon. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- You may use a round 9-inch deep pie plate instead of a baking pan; grease well and watch baking time carefully.
- Lining the pan with parchment is optional if serving directly from the casserole dish; be sure to grease thoroughly.
- Pre-cook the asparagus by blanching in salted boiling water to ensure tenderness inside the frittata.
- Use full-fat dairy such as whole milk or substitute with heavy cream or half-and-half for a richer texture; avoid low-fat or skim milk.
- Do not overcook the frittata; bake until just set and puffed to avoid dryness and rubbery texture.
- The recipe yields 6 servings and can be scaled up or down using the sliding scale tool in the recipe card.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of frittata)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 280 mg