The aroma of freshly baked frittata wafts through the kitchen, promising a delightful meal made from yesterday’s leftovers. This Leftover Pasta Frittata comes together in just 20 minutes, turning last night’s pasta into a comforting dish that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s a clever and easy way to reduce food waste while creating something utterly delicious.
This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you need to whip up a quick meal or for lazy weekends when you want a simple yet satisfying brunch. You can make the frittata ahead of time and store it in the fridge for easy reheating throughout the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Enjoy a creamy texture from the eggs combined with the hearty pasta.
- It’s a quick meal that can be made in under 20 minutes.
- A versatile dish that allows for creativity with leftover pasta types.
- The combination of cheese and spices adds depth to each bite.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful frittata.
For the Eggs
- 6 large eggs
- 2 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
For Cooking
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 cup cooked pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or bucatini
Use any pasta shape you have on hand.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Use Gruyère cheese for a nutty flavor.
- Swap red pepper flakes for paprika for less heat.
- Replace olive oil with butter for a richer taste.
- Use egg whites for a lighter version.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to create your frittata.
Turn on the broiler
Turn the broiler on high.
Combine ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the eggs, Parmesan, black pepper, salt, and pepper flakes. Whisk thoroughly to combine.
Heat pasta
In a medium oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the pasta. Cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through, about 3 minutes.
Add egg mixture
Pour in the egg mixture and tilt the skillet to distribute evenly. Cook, undisturbed, until the edges of the eggs are fully cooked and beginning to pull away from the sides of the skillet, about 5 minutes.
Broil frittata
Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for about 3 minutes, until the eggs are set and the frittata is slightly puffy. Cut into quarters, sprinkle with Parmesan, and serve.
How to Store It
Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: no, texture changes when frozen.
Reheat: microwave on medium for 1-2 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Allow the frittata to cool slightly before cutting for cleaner slices.
- Use a variety of leftover pasta for added flavor and texture.
- Don’t rush the cooking process—let the edges set before transferring to the broiler for best puffing.
- Watch closely while broiling to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Serve with crusty bread and a side of fruit for brunch.
- Accompany with a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
