Spaghetti Frittata
Spaghetti Frittata is a easy Italian recipe that serves 4. 340 calories per serving. Recipe by OrsaraRecipes on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 15 min | Total: 30 min
Cost: $6.72 total, $1.68 per serving
Ingredients
- 200 g Spaghetti (cooked leftover, slightly dry)
- 100 g Bacon (cut into 1‑inch pieces)
- 2 Tbsp Olive Oil (for sautéing)
- 6 Eggs (large, at room temperature)
- 100 g Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
- 2 Tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients
Chop the bacon into 1‑inch pieces, shred the mozzarella, chop the parsley, and crack the eggs into a mixing bowl. Beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
Time: PT5M
Cook Bacon
Heat 2 Tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon pieces and sauté until they are golden and crisp, about 4 minutes.
Time: PT4M
Temperature: Medium
Add Spaghetti
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the bacon. Toss together for 1‑2 minutes so the pasta coats with the bacon fat.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: Medium
Combine Egg Mixture
In the mixing bowl, stir in the shredded mozzarella and chopped parsley to the beaten eggs.
Time: PT1M
Pour Egg Mixture Over Pasta
Reduce the heat to low. Evenly pour the egg‑cheese mixture over the spaghetti and bacon in the skillet. Gently stir once to ensure even coverage, then let it sit undisturbed.
Time: PT1M
Temperature: Low
Cook First Side
Cook on low heat for about 10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the bottom is golden brown. Do not stir.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: Low
Flip the Frittata
Place a large plate over the skillet, carefully invert the frittata onto the plate, then slide it back into the skillet to cook the other side for 4‑5 minutes.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: Low
Finish and Serve
When fully set and lightly browned on both sides, slide the frittata onto a serving plate, garnish with extra chopped parsley, and cut into wedges.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 340
- Protein
- 20 g
- Carbohydrates
- 30 g
- Fat
- 18 g
- Fiber
- 2 g
Dietary info: Contains pork, Contains gluten, Not vegetarian, Not vegan
Allergens: Eggs, Dairy, Gluten, Pork
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Spaghetti: any cooked pasta
- Instead of Bacon: pancetta, turkey bacon
- Instead of Olive Oil: vegetable oil, canola oil
- Instead of Eggs: egg substitute
- Instead of Mozzarella Cheese: provolone, cheddar
- Instead of Fresh Parsley: basil, cilantro
Equipment Needed
- Large Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk or Fork
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Plate or Flat Tray (optional)
- Measuring Spoons (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Cooking bacon until crisp but not burnt
- Maintaining low heat while the egg mixture sets
- Flipping the frittata without breaking it
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use slightly dry leftover spaghetti so it absorbs the egg mixture better
- Add a splash of milk for extra fluffiness
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika with the black pepper
Troubleshooting
Frittata sticks to the pan
Add a little more oil before pouring the egg mixture and keep the heat low.
Center remains runny after 10 minutes
Cover the skillet with a lid for the last 3‑4 minutes to trap steam and finish cooking.
Frittata breaks when flipping
Use a wide, flexible spatula and a plate; ensure the bottom is fully set and golden before attempting to flip.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for no more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Cook the bacon a day ahead and store in the fridge
- Beat the eggs and keep refrigerated for up to 24 hours
- Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of spaghetti frittata in Italian cuisine?
Spaghetti frittata is a modern Italian comfort dish that grew out of the tradition of using leftovers, especially pasta, to create a hearty omelette‑style meal. It reflects Italy’s frugal home‑cooking ethos where nothing is wasted, turning leftover spaghetti into a breakfast or supper staple.
What are the traditional regional variations of spaghetti frittata in Italy?
While the basic concept is nationwide, northern regions often add cheese like Fontina or Parmigiano, and some southern versions incorporate cured meats such as pancetta or salami. Herbs also vary—parsley in the north, basil or oregano in the south.
How is spaghetti frittata traditionally served in Italy?
It is typically served hot, cut into wedges, and accompanied by a simple green salad or crusty bread. In some households it is enjoyed for breakfast with a drizzle of extra‑virgin olive oil, while in others it appears as a light dinner.
On what occasions or celebrations is spaghetti frittata traditionally associated in Italian culture?
Spaghetti frittata isn’t tied to a specific holiday; it’s a everyday “cucina di casa” dish, often prepared after a big family pasta dinner when leftovers remain. It’s popular for quick weekend brunches or as a comforting late‑night snack.
What other Italian dishes pair well with spaghetti frittata?
A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, grilled vegetables, or a simple tomato bruschetta complement the richness of the frittata. A glass of light red wine such as Chianti also balances the flavors.
What makes spaghetti frittata special or unique in Italian cuisine?
Its uniqueness lies in repurposing pasta into an egg‑based cake, merging two staple Italian foods—pasta and frittata—into one dish. The combination of salty bacon, melty mozzarella, and aromatic parsley gives it a comforting yet sophisticated flavor profile.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making spaghetti frittata?
Common errors include cooking the eggs over high heat, which burns the bottom; flipping before the bottom is fully set; and using overly wet leftover pasta, which makes the frittata soggy. Follow the low‑heat method and pat the pasta dry for best results.
Why does this spaghetti frittata recipe use low heat instead of medium‑high heat?
Low heat allows the egg mixture to set gently without curdling or burning, especially important when the pan already contains bacon fat and pasta. It ensures a uniformly cooked interior and a golden, not burnt, exterior.
Can I make spaghetti frittata ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance. Cool it completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
What does the YouTube channel OrsaraRecipes specialize in?
The YouTube channel OrsaraRecipes specializes in easy, home‑cooked Italian‑inspired meals that make use of pantry staples and leftovers, offering step‑by‑step tutorials for everyday cooks.
How does the YouTube channel OrsaraRecipes' approach to Italian cooking differ from other Italian cooking channels?
OrsaraRecipes focuses on quick, budget‑friendly recipes that repurpose leftovers, whereas many other Italian channels emphasize traditional, time‑intensive dishes. The channel’s style is informal, with practical tips for busy home cooks.
Last updated: September 1, 2026
