Fresh & Fluffy Barefoot Contessa’s Potato Basil Frittata Recipe

Weekends call for something special, and this potato basil frittata from the Barefoot Contessa delivers pure breakfast magic.

Fresh herbs dance through creamy eggs and golden potatoes, creating a dish that sings with Italian-inspired simplicity.

Every bite promises comfort and elegance on a single plate.

The recipe blends rustic charm with gourmet sensibility, making it perfect for lazy mornings or brunch gatherings.

Creamy eggs embrace tender potatoes while fragrant basil weaves its bright flavor throughout the frittata.

Professional yet approachable, this dish proves sophisticated cooking doesn’t require complicated techniques.

Dive into this delightful recipe and savor a morning masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Calories: 468 kcal

Servings: 6

Ingredients for Potato Basil Frittata

• Potatoes: Hearty foundation that creates a satisfying texture and adds rustic charm to the frittata. Choose firm, waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for even cooking and smooth consistency.
• Butter: Provides rich, golden flavor and helps prevent sticking while creating a silky cooking surface. Select high-quality unsalted butter for best taste.

• Eggs: Essential protein-packed binder that holds the entire dish together. Select fresh, room-temperature eggs for optimal mixing and smooth texture.
• Ricotta Cheese: Introduces luxurious creaminess and delicate tang. Look for smooth, fresh ricotta with clean, mild flavor.
• Gruyère Cheese: Delivers deep, nutty undertones and excellent melting properties. Choose aged Gruyère for more intense flavor profile.

• Basil: Infuses bright, aromatic freshness and classic Mediterranean essence. Opt for fresh basil leaves for maximum fragrance and vibrant green color.
• Salt: Elevates and balances overall flavor complexity. Use fine sea salt for even distribution.
• Black Pepper: Adds subtle warmth and gentle spiciness. Freshly ground provides more robust taste.
• Flour: Creates slight structure and helps bind ingredients smoothly. All-purpose flour works perfectly.
• Baking Powder: Provides gentle lift and ensures light, airy texture. Check expiration date for maximum effectiveness.

Equipment Needed for Basil Frittata

• Oven-proof omelet pan: Essential for cooking and baking the frittata directly in one pan.
• Large mixing bowl: Perfect for whisking eggs and combining all ingredients smoothly.
• Whisk: Key tool for blending eggs and creating a light, airy mixture.
• Microwave-safe dish: Quick method for melting butter evenly.
• Sharp knife: Helps check frittata's doneness by testing the centre.
• Cutting board: Space for dicing potatoes and preparing ingredients.
• Measuring tablespoons: Ensures precise butter measurements.

Cooking Instructions for Potato Basil Frittata

• Potato Foundation

Gather a sturdy oven-safe skillet and warm up your kitchen space. Select fresh potatoes for a hearty base that will cradle your delicious frittata.

• Potato Golden Transformation

Carefully cook diced potatoes in melted butter, creating a crispy, golden landscape that will become the delectable bottom layer of your frittata.

• Egg Symphony

Whisk eggs into a smooth mixture, inviting ricotta, Gruyère, and fragrant basil to join the culinary dance. Blend gently to create a harmonious batter that promises rich flavor.

• Texture and Structure

Sprinkle flour and baking powder into the egg mixture, ensuring a light and airy texture that will puff beautifully during baking.

• Culinary Composition

Pour the egg mixture over the golden potatoes, creating a seamless connection between layers. Spread evenly to guarantee each bite contains a perfect balance of ingredients.

• Oven Magic

Slide the skillet into a preheated oven, allowing the frittata to transform. Bake until the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the center sets completely, signaling a masterpiece is ready.

• Serving Celebration

Remove the frittata from the oven and let it rest briefly. Slice and serve immediately, revealing a stunning dish that captures the essence of comfort and elegance.

Tips for Perfect Potato Basil Frittata

• Replace Gruyère with sharp cheddar, creamy goat cheese, or tangy feta for unique flavor profiles that complement the potatoes and basil.
• Mix in roasted red peppers, spinach, or caramelized onions to add extra depth and nutrition to your frittata base.
• Incorporate crispy bacon bits, diced ham, or cooked chorizo for a hearty protein-packed version that transforms the dish into a complete meal.
• Experiment with fresh thyme, oregano, or chives alongside basil to create a more complex and aromatic herb blend that elevates the overall taste experience.
• Prepare the frittata in advance, refrigerate, and reheat gently in the oven at 160°C (325°F) for 15-20 minutes to maintain its fluffy texture and delicious flavor.

Serving Options for Potato Basil Frittata

• Pair with Fresh Greens: Serve the frittata alongside a crisp mixed salad with light vinaigrette dressing for a balanced meal that adds freshness and nutrition.
• Brunch Centerpiece: Create a stunning weekend brunch spread by presenting the frittata as the star dish, accompanied by crusty bread and fresh fruit slices.
• Wine Companion: Enhance the flavor experience by pairing with a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Chardonnay that complements the rich, cheesy texture.
• Garnish with Herbs: Sprinkle extra fresh basil leaves or chopped chives on top to add a vibrant color and boost the aromatic herb profile of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips for Basil Frittata

• Refrigerate Wisely: Store leftover frittata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or place in a sealed container to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of other food odors.
• Freeze for Later: Slice the frittata into individual portions, wrap each piece securely in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen frittata keeps well for 2-3 months, providing a quick meal option for busy days.
• Reheat with Care: Warm refrigerated frittata slices in a preheated oven at 160°C (325°F) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispy edges and maintain the original texture. Avoid microwave reheating to prevent rubbery eggs.
• Serve at Peak Flavor: Allow chilled frittata to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to enhance taste and texture. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of extra cheese to revive its original deliciousness.

Creamy Barefoot Contessa Potato Basil Frittata Recipe

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4.8 from 11 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Ina Garten’s potato basil frittata brings Mediterranean flair to breakfast tables with fresh herbs and creamy eggs. Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly, offering a delicious morning meal you’ll savor to the last bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 extra-large eggs
• 425 g (15 oz) ricotta cheese
• 340 g (12 oz) Gruyère cheese, grated
• 480 g (17 oz) peeled and ½-inch-diced boiling potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
• ¾ cup chopped fresh basil leaves
• 113 g (4 oz) unsalted butter, divided
• 40 g (⅓ cup) all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) with rack centered. Select a 25-centimeter oven-proof skillet.
2. Potato Foundation: Melt butter in skillet over medium-low heat. Sauté diced potatoes until tender and golden, stirring consistently to prevent burning, approximately 10-15 minutes.
3. Egg Integration: Whisk eggs in a large bowl, blending ricotta, Gruyère, melted butter, salt, black pepper, and basil until smooth. Gently fold in flour and baking powder, ensuring uniform mixture without dry ingredient clusters.
4. Assembly: Distribute cooked potatoes evenly across skillet bottom. Pour egg mixture over potatoes, guaranteeing complete and uniform coverage.
5. Baking Performance: Transfer skillet to preheated oven. Bake 50-60 minutes until surface turns golden-brown, significantly puffs, and center becomes firm. Validate doneness by inserting a knife near center – it should emerge clean.
6. Serving Technique: Remove from oven and rest 3-5 minutes to stabilize structure. Slice into wedges and serve immediately while warm, showcasing the frittata’s delicate texture and aromatic herb infusion.

Notes

• Potato Perfection: Sauté potatoes slowly over medium-low heat to develop a golden, crispy exterior without burning, which enhances overall flavor and texture.
• Cheese Blend Balance: Mix ricotta for creaminess and Gruyère for depth, creating a rich, complex taste profile that elevates the basic frittata.
• Baking Precision: Watch closely during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to prevent overcooking, ensuring a light, fluffy texture with a golden-brown top.
• Resting Ritual: Allow the frittata to rest briefly after baking, which helps the eggs set completely and makes cutting and serving much easier without falling apart.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 468
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 337mg
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 21g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 19g
• Cholesterol: 360mg