The Hearty Italian Sausage Frittata: A Rustic Italian Embrace

There’s something profoundly comforting about a dish that speaks of generations of home cooking, a meal that can grace your table for any occasion and still feel utterly special. For me, that dish is this Italian Sausage Frittata. I remember my Nonna Elena, her hands dusted with flour even when she wasn’t baking, pulling a similar creation from her oven. The aroma of browned sausage, sautéed vegetables, and rich eggs would fill her tiny kitchen, a fragrant promise of warmth and satisfaction. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a hug on a plate, a reminder of simple pleasures and abundant family gatherings, and this recipe captures that very essence beautifully.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 1 (9×13 inch) frittata
• Dietary Type: Not specified (contains meat and dairy)

Ingredients

This frittata relies on a handful of quality ingredients, readily available at your local market, to create a symphony of flavors and textures.

• 1 ½ lbs bulk Italian sausage
• 8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 3 large swiss chard leaves, rolled and sliced thin
• 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, grated
• 14 large eggs
• 1 ¾ cups milk
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

Equipment Needed

To bring this rustic Italian dish to life, you’ll want to have the following on hand:

• A large saucepan or skillet
• A 9×13 inch baking dish
• A medium-sized bowl
• A whisk
• An oven
• Foil for covering

Instructions

Crafting this Italian Sausage Frittata is a straightforward process, where each step builds upon the last to create a dish that’s both elegant and wonderfully unfussy.

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures a consistent, even bake from the moment the frittata enters the oven.
2. In a large saucepan or skillet over medium-high heat, brown the Italian sausage. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks until it’s no longer pink. Once browned, carefully drain off any excess grease.
3. Spread the browned sausage evenly across the bottom of your 9×13 inch baking dish. This forms the savory foundation of our frittata.
4. In the same saucepan (no need to wash it, those browned bits add flavor!), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Sauté them, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have released most of their liquid and are tender, nearly all the liquid has been absorbed. If you enjoy a subtle hint of acidity, you can add a few dashes of white wine during this sautéing process for an extra layer of flavor.
5. Spread the sautéed mushroom and garlic mixture evenly over the layer of sausage in the baking dish.
6. Next, layer the thinly sliced swiss chard over the mushrooms. Follow this with a generous scattering of the grated mild cheddar cheese.
7. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the 14 large eggs, 1 ¾ cups of milk, and 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard until well combined and slightly frothy. The Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that beautifully complements the richness of the eggs and cheese.
8. Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over all the ingredients in the baking dish. Ensure it distributes to fill any gaps and coats the layers.
9. Place the baking dish on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 1 hour, or until the center is firm to the touch and the frittata has puffed up and is golden around the edges. Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time. A gentle poke in the center should yield a firm response, not a jiggly one.
10. Once baked, remove the frittata from the oven. Cover it loosely with foil and allow it to stand for 15-18 minutes. This resting period is crucial, as it allows the frittata to set completely, making it easier to cut and serve without it falling apart.
11. Finally, divide and cut the frittata into serving sizes. You can serve it as is, or for an extra flourish, consider topping it with chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream—or indeed, both!

Expert Tips & Tricks

To elevate your frittata-making game, consider these insider tips:

• Sausage Selection: While the recipe calls for mild Italian sausage, don’t be afraid to experiment. Spicy Italian sausage, as I often use, will introduce a delightful kick. Turkey Italian sausage can also be a leaner, yet flavorful, option.
• Mushroom Magic: For an even richer mushroom flavor, consider using a mix of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms. Ensure you sauté them thoroughly to remove excess moisture, which can make the frittata watery.
• Greens Galore: If swiss chard isn’t readily available or to your liking, other hearty greens like spinach, kale, or even a robust collard green can be used. Just be sure to chop them finely and sauté them briefly to soften.
• Cheese Choices: While mild cheddar is a classic, feel free to swap it out for other melting cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp provolone for a more robust flavor. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before baking adds a lovely nutty note.
• Egg to Milk Ratio: The 14 eggs to 1 ¾ cups milk ratio creates a wonderfully creamy and set frittata. If you prefer a slightly more custardy texture, you could slightly increase the milk, but be mindful not to add too much, as it might affect the setting time.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Italian Sausage Frittata is incredibly versatile. It shines as a star for breakfast, a sophisticated centerpiece for brunch, a satisfying light lunch, or a hearty dinner. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette, some crusty Italian bread for soaking up any delicious juices, or even a side of roasted potatoes.

Leftovers can be stored, once completely cooled, in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm individual portions in a microwave or a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) until heated through. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, a well-stored frittata remains a delightful meal for a quick reheat.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	734.8 kcal	–
Calories from Fat	–	68 %
Total Fat	55.6 g	85 %
Saturated Fat	22.5 g	112 %
Cholesterol	598.1 mg	199 %
Sodium	1821.6 mg	75 %
Total Carbohydrate	12.1 g	4 %
Dietary Fiber	1.1 g	4 %
Sugars	3 g	12 %
Protein	45.3 g	90 %

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

Variations & Substitutions

The beauty of a frittata lies in its adaptability. Feel free to:

• Go Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and load up on extra vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or spinach. Add some crumbled feta or goat cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
• Spice it Up: If you love heat, use hot Italian sausage and a pinch of red pepper flakes in the egg mixture.
• Herb Heaven: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or chives into the egg mixture for an aromatic boost.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this frittata ahead of time?
A: Yes, this frittata is excellent for make-ahead. It can be baked completely, cooled, and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently.

Q: What’s the best way to tell if the frittata is done?
A: The center should be firm to the touch and no longer jiggly. You can also insert a knife or toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

Q: My frittata seems a bit watery, what did I do wrong?
A: This usually happens if the vegetables, especially mushrooms, weren’t sautéed long enough to release and absorb their liquid. Ensure they are cooked down well.

Q: Can I use different types of sausage?
A: Absolutely! Pork, turkey, chicken, mild, or spicy – experiment with your favorite Italian sausage for varied flavor profiles.

Q: How long does the frittata need to rest after baking?
A: Letting the frittata rest, loosely covered with foil, for 15-18 minutes is important to allow it to set properly before slicing.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Sausage Frittata is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to slow down, savor the process, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. It’s a dish that embodies the warmth and generosity of Italian home cooking, perfect for sharing with loved ones or for a comforting solo meal. The robust flavors of the sausage, the earthy notes of the mushrooms, and the creamy texture of the eggs come together in a truly harmonious way. Gather your ingredients, embrace the simple elegance of this dish, and I’m confident it will become a cherished staple in your culinary repertoire. Buon appetito!