Ham & Broccolini Frittata

This broccolini frittata is made with ham, cottage cheese, and plenty of greens. It’s healthy, protein-packed, and surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and a great option for meal prep.

One of my go-to easy meals when I need something quick and healthy is a frittata. They’re ready in about 10 minutes, help use up any leftover veggies in the fridge, and work for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

This broccolini frittata takes inspiration from a classic broccoli and cheese bake, with cottage cheese, cheddar, onion, and ham for extra flavour. Broccolini (aka tenderstem broccoli) is one of my favourite veggies to throw in the pan—but adding it to a frittata is hands down one of the tastiest ways to sneak in more greens!

You can enjoy this one just as it is, or check out the serving ideas I’ve shared below. It’s also perfect for meal prep and great reheated for breakfast the next day or packed up as a healthy lunch.

Ingredients you’ll need

This broccolini frittata comes together with just a handful of simple ingredients:

• Eggs: The hero of any frittata! You’ll need 6 large eggs to hold everything together and give it that fluffy, golden texture.
• Ham: A little diced ham adds a savoury, salty bite. If you’re not a ham fan, smoked salmon is a delicious swap, or you can leave it out for a vegetarian version.
• Broccolini: Two bunches with the ends trimmed. I love the tender stems and slightly sweet flavour—it’s such a nice upgrade from regular broccoli.
• Cottage cheese: Instead of milk or cream, I like to use cottage cheese. It keeps the frittata creamy and light while adding extra protein.
• Cheese: Freshly grated cheddar is my go-to for that melty, cheesy finish, but feta adds a lovely tangy twist if you want something different.
• Seasonings: A little brown onion and a spoonful of Dijon mustard bring depth and richness to the flavour—don’t skip these!
• Salt + pepper: The finishing touch to balance and bring out all the flavours.

Complete list of ingredients and amounts is located on the recipe card below.

How to Make Broccolini Frittata

Egg mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Onion: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a 10–12 inch oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring often, until softened.

Broccolini: Add the chopped broccolini to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until just tender.

Ham: Stir in the ham so it’s evenly distributed through the veggies.

Combine: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the broccolini and ham. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese on top.

Bake: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden.

Finish: Remove from the oven and let the frittata cool (and de-puff!) for a few minutes before slicing. Season with extra salt and pepper if needed.

Recipe Modifications

Frittatas are such a versatile way to pack in more veggies! You can swap out the broccolini or add in extras like chopped carrots, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini—whatever you have on hand will work beautifully.

Not a fan of ham? Try smoked salmon for something a little fancier, or use shredded chicken for a heartier option. You can also skip the meat entirely and keep it vegetarian.

Serving Suggestions

I love enjoying this frittata with a slice of sourdough or alongside a simple side salad—something like a fresh spring mix (link recipe here) always hits the spot.

If you’d like to make it a little more filling, pair it with a starchy side to balance out the protein, veggies, and healthy fats. A few tasty options:

• Crispy toasted baguette, sourdough, or wholegrain toast
• Sautéed Sweet Potatoes
• Crackers or crispbread
• A hearty whole grain salad like my Cypriot Grain Salad or Vegan Summertime Couscous Salad.

How to Store

• Fridge: Let the frittata cool completely, then store slices in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
• Reheat: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.

Recipe FAQ

More Savoury Breakfasts 

Cottage Cheese Avocado Toast

Spinach Mushroom Feta Quiche

Crustless Salmon & Spinach Quiche

Broccoli Cheese Waffles

If you try this broccolini frittata recipe or have a question, please let me know! Leave a comment and rate it below. I love to hear what you think, or any changes you make.

Print