Cheesy Ham and Spinach Skillet Frittata

Prep: 15 minCook: 28 min8 servingsmediumAmerican
Cheesy Ham and Spinach Skillet Frittata

A stovetop-to-oven frittata loaded with Swiss cheese, diced ham, wilted spinach, and fresh tomatoes. Eggs and cream create a custardy, set center with crispy edges. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or light dinner. This version uses a quick pan-start method before finishing in the oven, ensuring even cooking and a golden top without flipping.

Ingredients

8 servings
  • 12 eggs
    egg whites12 whites + 2 whole eggslighter

    lower fat

    Full guide →
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
    half and half1:1dairy_reduction

    lighter texture

    Full guide →
  • 1 tbsp garlic herb black pepper and sea salt all purpose seasoning
  • 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
    cheddar or gouda1:1flavor_swap

    earthier flavor

    Full guide →
  • ½ cup tomatoes, finely chopped and seeded
  • 2 tbsps butter
    olive oil1:1dairy_freedairy-free

    vegan compatible

    Full guide →
  • 1 cup ham steak, diced
    bacon1:1meat_swap

    smokier taste

  • 2 cups baby spinach, packed
    kale1:1greens_swap

    heartier texture

    Full guide →

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 375°F.

  2. 2

    Whisk eggs, heavy cream, seasoning, cheese, and tomatoes together in a large bowl until well blended.

  3. 3

    Melt butter in a 12-inch ovenproof skillet over medium heat.

  4. 4

    Add ham and spinach; cook until spinach is wilted, about 2 to 3 minutes.

  5. 5

    Pour egg mixture into skillet and gently shake pan to distribute evenly.

  6. 6

    Cook on stovetop without stirring until edges begin to set, about 3 minutes.

  7. 7

    Transfer skillet to oven and bake until center is set, about 20 minutes.

  8. 8

    Remove from oven and let stand 5 minutes.

  9. 9

    Sprinkle with additional cheese if desired before serving.

Tips

Tip 1

Use an ovenproof skillet with a heat-safe handle to safely transfer from stovetop to oven without damaging handles.

Tip 2

Don't stir during cooking; let the frittata set undisturbed on the stovetop for clean edges and even texture throughout.

Tip 3

The 5-minute rest allows carryover cooking to finish the center while the frittata firms up for easier slicing.

Good to Know

Storage

Cover and refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes or in microwave for 1 to 2 minutes per slice.

Make Ahead

Prepare egg mixture up to 4 hours ahead; cover and chill. Cook ham and spinach just before baking.

Serve With

Serve warm or at room temperature, cut into wedges. Pairs well with a green salad, crusty bread, or fresh fruit for brunch.

See pairing guide →

Common Mistakes

Watch

Stir the frittata while cooking on stovetop to avoid breaking up the setting structure and losing clean edges.

Watch

Use an ovenproof skillet to avoid heat damage or handle failure during oven transfer.

Substitutions

Dairy-Free Swaps

heavy cream
half and half1:1dairy_reduction

lighter texture

Full guide →
butter
olive oil1:1dairy_freedairy-free

vegan compatible

Full guide →

General Alternatives

Swiss cheese
cheddar or gouda1:1flavor_swap

earthier flavor

Full guide →
ham steak
bacon1:1meat_swap

smokier taste

Full guide →
baby spinach
kale1:1greens_swap

heartier texture

Full guide →
eggs
egg whites12 whites + 2 whole eggslighter

lower fat

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I make this frittata ahead for meal prep?

Yes. Bake completely, cool, wrap, and refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat gently at 325°F or microwave individual slices. Freezing is not recommended as the texture becomes watery upon thawing.

What if I don't have an ovenproof skillet?

Transfer the partially cooked egg mixture to a buttered 9x13-inch baking dish after the stovetop step. Bake at 375°F for 15 to 18 minutes until set.

How long does a frittata keep in the refrigerator?

Properly stored in an airtight container, a frittata keeps up to 3 days. It's best eaten within 24 hours for optimal texture and flavor.