Breakfast Spinach Frittata - Martha Stewart
Breakfast Spinach Frittata - Martha Stewart is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 180 calories per serving. Recipe by Martha Stewart on YouTube.
Prep: 21 min | Cook: 20 min | Total: 56 min
Cost: $5.24 total, $1.31 per serving
Ingredients
- 4 Large Eggs (room temperature)
- 8 Egg Whites (about 8 large egg whites, room temperature)
- 3 tsp Whole Milk (low‑fat preferred)
- 1 tsp Olive Oil (extra‑virgin, for sautéing)
- 2 Small Shallots (minced)
- 6 cups Baby Spinach (about 5 oz, one 5‑oz package, washed and dried)
- 4 tbsp Gruyère Cheese (finely grated, divided (1 tbsp per ramekin + 1 tbsp for topping))
- 1/2 tsp Salt (kosher or sea salt)
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- 2 cups Mixed Greens (any salad mix, washed and dried)
- 1 tsp Cherry Vinegar (for salad dressing)
- 1 tsp Olive Oil (extra‑virgin, for salad dressing)
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Set the oven to 450°F and allow it to preheat while you prepare the frittatas.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 450°F
Whisk Egg Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 4 whole eggs, 8 egg whites, and 3 teaspoons of milk until fully combined.
Time: PT5M
Sauté Shallots
Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced shallots and cook for about 2 minutes, until translucent.
Time: PT2M
Wilt Spinach
Add the 6 cups of baby spinach to the skillet, sprinkle with a pinch of salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and sauté for 3 minutes until wilted and most of the liquid has evaporated.
Time: PT3M
Combine Veggies with Egg Base
Transfer the sautéed shallots and spinach to the egg mixture. Stir in 1 tablespoon of grated Gruyère cheese until evenly distributed.
Time: PT2M
Prepare Ramekins
Lightly spray four ramekins with vegetable spray (or brush with a little olive oil).
Time: PT1M
Fill Ramekins
Divide the egg‑vegetable mixture evenly among the four ramekins. Sprinkle an additional 1 tablespoon of grated Gruyère on top of each.
Time: PT3M
Bake
Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the tops are puffed and lightly golden.
Time: PT15M
Temperature: 450°F
Prepare Simple Salad
In a salad bowl, toss 2 cups mixed greens with 1 teaspoon cherry vinegar, 1 teaspoon olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of pepper.
Time: PT3M
Serve
Remove the frittatas from the oven, let them rest for 2 minutes, then serve each with a portion of the dressed salad.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 180
- Protein
- 12 g
- Carbohydrates
- 2 g
- Fat
- 12 g
- Fiber
- 1 g
Dietary info: High protein, Low carbohydrate, Gluten‑free, Vegetarian
Allergens: Eggs, Dairy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Egg Whites: Liquid egg whites
- Instead of Whole Milk: Almond milk, Soy milk
- Instead of Olive Oil: vegetable oil, canola oil
- Instead of Small Shallots: red onion, green onion
- Instead of Baby Spinach: fresh kale (stems removed), Swiss chard
- Instead of Gruyère Cheese: Swiss cheese, Emmental
- Instead of Mixed Greens: arugula, baby lettuce
- Instead of Cherry Vinegar: balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar
- Instead of Olive Oil: avocado oil
Equipment Needed
- Oven
- Ramekins
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Skillet
- Spatula
- Measuring Spoons
- Baking Sheet
- Vegetable Spray (optional)
- Rubber‑Band Wrapped Tongs (optional)
- Salad Bowl (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Whisking whole eggs with egg whites thoroughly
- Sautéing spinach until most moisture evaporates
- Baking at 450°F for a short, high‑heat burst
Chef Tips from the Video
- Wrap the handles of regular tongs with rubber bands for a better grip on hot ramekins.
- Grate Gruyère finely so it melts quickly and creates a golden crust.
- Use a light hand when folding the spinach into the eggs to keep the mixture airy.
Troubleshooting
Frittatas did not puff up.
Make sure the oven is fully preheated to 450°F and that the egg whites are well whisked into the mixture. Avoid opening the oven door early.
Spinach makes the frittata watery.
After sautéing, press the spinach in a colander or squeeze with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture before adding to the egg mixture.
Top is over‑browned but interior is undercooked.
Lower the oven temperature to 425°F and extend the bake time by 2‑3 minutes, or cover the ramekins loosely with foil.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat gently in a 300°F oven or microwave.
Freezer: Can freeze baked frittatas for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Whisk the egg mixture up to 24 hours ahead and keep refrigerated.
- Sauté shallots and spinach a day before; reheat briefly before folding into the egg mixture.
- Ramekins can be pre‑sprayed and set out while the oven preheats.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of spinach frittata in American brunch cuisine?
The frittata, originally an Italian egg dish, became a staple of American brunch menus in the mid‑20th century, where cooks adapted it with local ingredients like fresh spinach and cheese for a light, protein‑rich option.
What traditional regional variations of frittata exist in Italian cuisine compared to this American spinach frittata?
Traditional Italian frittatas often feature seasonal vegetables, herbs, and cheeses such as Pecorino, while the American version highlighted here uses baby spinach, Gruyère, and a high‑heat puffed texture favored in brunch settings.
How is a spinach frittata traditionally served in the United States?
In the U.S., individual spinach frittatas are commonly served warm with a simple mixed‑green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, making them a balanced brunch or light dinner dish.
What occasions or celebrations is spinach frittata traditionally associated with in American culture?
Spinach frittatas are popular for weekend brunches, holiday brunch buffets, and casual gatherings because they can be made ahead, look elegant in ramekins, and cater to health‑conscious guests.
What makes this spinach frittata special or unique in Martha Stewart’s cooking style?
Martha Stewart emphasizes elegant presentation, precise technique, and health‑focused tweaks; this recipe uses a blend of whole eggs and egg whites for extra puffiness while cutting calories, and it showcases a clean, minimalist plating with a fresh salad.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making spinach frittata at home?
Common errors include over‑mixing the egg mixture, not fully evaporating spinach moisture, and opening the oven too early, which can prevent the frittata from puffing up and result in a soggy texture.
Why does this recipe use a combination of whole eggs and egg whites instead of all egg whites?
The whole eggs add richness and structure, while the egg whites increase volume and lower calories and cholesterol; this balance yields a fluffy yet flavorful frittata.
Can I make the spinach frittata ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can whisk the egg mixture and sauté the vegetables up to a day ahead; keep them refrigerated separately, then assemble and bake just before serving. Leftovers store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the spinach frittata is done cooking?
The frittata should be puffed, lightly golden on top, and set in the center—no liquid egg should remain when a knife is inserted. The edges may be slightly crisp, while the interior stays moist.
What does the YouTube channel Martha Stewart specialize in?
The YouTube channel Martha Stewart focuses on classic American home cooking, elegant entertaining, seasonal recipes, and lifestyle content that blends timeless techniques with modern convenience.
How does the YouTube channel Martha Stewart's approach to American brunch recipes differ from other cooking channels?
Martha Stewart’s approach emphasizes meticulous preparation, high‑quality ingredients, and polished presentation, often providing detailed tips for health‑conscious adaptations, whereas many other channels prioritize speed or trendy flavors.
What other American brunch recipes is the YouTube channel Martha Stewart known for?
Martha Stewart’s channel features popular brunch staples such as lemon ricotta pancakes, avocado toast with poached eggs, baked oatmeal, and classic eggs Benedict, all presented with her signature attention to detail.
Last updated: August 30, 2026




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