Easy & Flavorful Sausage Frittata with Peppers and Onions: Your Go-To One-Pan Brunch

Searching for a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of day? Look no further than this incredibly delicious Sausage Frittata with Peppers and Onions! This recipe takes the humble egg dish to new heights with the addition of rich, savory kolbassa (kielbasa) sausage and a lively kick from spicy peppers. It’s a true one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze, and is naturally gluten-free, catering to a variety of dietary needs. Whether you’re whipping up a quick breakfast, a hearty lunch, or an impressive brunch, this frittata is sure to become a family favorite.

This post is proudly sponsored by Grimm’s Fine Foods, a brand committed to quality, as part of their #GrimmsForTheHolidays campaign. Rest assured, all opinions expressed here are my own, reflecting genuine enthusiasm for their products. Your support for the brands that make Crumb Top Baking possible is greatly appreciated!

As the holiday season draws near, my thoughts naturally turn to planning festive gatherings, and brunch is always at the top of my list. There’s something uniquely charming about a relaxed brunch with loved ones, offering a delightful spread that accommodates both early risers and those who prefer a leisurely start to the day. It’s truly my favorite meal to prepare, offering endless opportunities for creativity and flavor. While Crumb Top Baking features delightful brunch dishes year-round, the holidays always inspire something extra special.

That’s why, when Grimm’s Fine Foods approached me to craft a recipe using their Kolbassa Sausage Bites, I knew instantly that a robust and flavorful brunch dish was the perfect fit. Grimm’s products, all made with care in Canada, align perfectly with a focus on wholesome ingredients. They are thoughtfully crafted to be gluten, lactose, and soy-free, with no added MSG, fillers, or by-products. Our family has been long-time admirers of their lean turkey pepperoni, and now, their Kolbassa Sausage Bites have earned a permanent spot in our pantry for their incredible taste and quality.

This particular sausage frittata has been a staple in my kitchen for weeks, perfected through several test batches. I’m genuinely excited to share this delicious, easy-to-make dish with my family and friends throughout the upcoming holiday season, confident that it will be a crowd-pleaser.

Why This Sausage Frittata Recipe Will Become Your New Favorite

• Effortless One-Pan Cooking: This recipe truly shines as a one-pan meal. From browning the sausage to sautéing the vegetables and cooking the eggs, everything happens in a single skillet. This not only speeds up the cooking process but dramatically simplifies cleanup, giving you more time to enjoy your meal and less time scrubbing dishes.
• Frees Up Valuable Oven Space: Unlike many baked egg dishes, this frittata is predominantly cooked on the stovetop, requiring only a few minutes under the broiler at the very end to achieve that perfect golden finish. This is a huge advantage, especially during holidays or when entertaining, as it keeps your oven free for other dishes like roasted potatoes, baked goods, or a succulent ham.
• Versatile for Any Meal & Meal Prep Friendly: While it makes an incredible brunch centerpiece, this sausage frittata is remarkably versatile. Enjoy it for a quick, protein-packed breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or even a light dinner. Its ability to be prepared in advance also makes it an excellent choice for meal prepping. Cook a batch on Sunday, and you’ll have delicious, ready-to-eat servings for several days, saving you time during busy weekdays.
• Perfect for Gluten-Free Guests: Catering to diverse dietary needs can be challenging, but this frittata makes it easy. Being entirely gluten-free, it’s an ideal option for guests or family members with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, ensuring everyone can enjoy a delicious meal without worry.

What Exactly is a Frittata?

Often compared to an omelette or a crustless quiche, a frittata stands out with its unique preparation method and rustic charm. At its core, a frittata is an Italian egg-based dish enriched with a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, meats, and cheeses. While an omelette is typically folded over its filling and cooked quickly on the stovetop, and a quiche features a pastry crust, a frittata is designed for ease and heartiness.

The traditional frittata cooking process begins on the stovetop, often in a sturdy, oven-safe pan like a cast iron skillet. Ingredients like our delicious sausage, peppers, and onions are sautéed until tender. Then, a whisked egg mixture is poured over them, and the frittata is allowed to cook gently until the edges begin to set. To achieve a perfectly cooked, fluffy interior and a beautifully golden-brown top, the skillet is then swiftly transferred to a hot oven or placed under a broiler for just a few minutes, completing the cooking process without needing to flip. This method creates a dish that is wonderfully tender and moist inside, with a slight firmness and often a pleasant browning on the surface.

Essential Ingredients for Your Flavorful Sausage Egg Frittata

Crafting this vibrant frittata requires a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

• Grimm’s Fine Foods Kolbassa Sausage Bites: The star of our frittata! These pre-cooked, flavorful sausage bites offer a robust and slightly smoky taste that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients. Their convenient size means less prep work; simply slice them to your desired thickness.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Essential for browning the sausage and sautéing the vegetables, providing a rich base flavor and ensuring nothing sticks to the pan.
• Red Onion: Adds a touch of sweetness and a mild pungency that mellows beautifully as it cooks, complementing the savory sausage.
• Red and Green Bell Peppers: These colorful additions provide a fresh, slightly sweet crunch and a vibrant visual appeal. They also contribute essential vitamins and a fresh counterpoint to the richness of the sausage and eggs.
• Jalapeño Pepper: For that signature spicy kick! Adjust the amount based on your preference for heat. For a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes. For extra spice, leave some in or add a bit more.
• Garlic: Minced garlic introduces a fragrant, aromatic depth that is fundamental to many savory dishes. It’s a flavor enhancer that ties all the ingredients together.
• Eggs: The foundation of any frittata! Large, fresh eggs will give you the best texture and fluffiness. They bind all the ingredients into a cohesive, satisfying dish.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that are crucial for enhancing all the natural flavors in the frittata. Always season to taste.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: An optional but highly recommended addition for an extra layer of warmth and heat, working in harmony with the jalapeño.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Perfect Sausage Frittata

Making this frittata is a straightforward process, designed for efficiency and delicious results. Follow these simple steps for a perfect one-pan meal:

• Prepare the Sausage: Begin by slicing your Grimm’s Kolbassa Sausage Bites into uniform 1/4-inch thick pieces. Heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a 10-inch oven-safe cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage to the hot skillet and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are beautifully browned and slightly crispy on both sides. Since these sausages are pre-cooked, you’re simply aiming for a delicious caramelization. Once done, transfer the browned sausage to a plate and set it aside.
• Sauté the Vegetables: With the same skillet, carefully add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Introduce your chopped red onion, red pepper, green pepper, and jalapeño. Sauté these vibrant vegetables for 2-3 minutes over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they begin to soften and release their aromatic flavors. Next, add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another 2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic, which can turn bitter. Return the browned sausage to the skillet, distributing it evenly among the softened vegetables.
• Prepare and Pour the Eggs: In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the large eggs until the yolks and whites are fully combined and slightly frothy. Season this egg mixture generously with kosher salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using, and adjust to your preferred level of spice). Carefully pour the whisked egg mixture over the sausage and vegetable medley in the skillet, ensuring it coats everything evenly.
• Stovetop Cooking: Reduce the heat to medium-low to prevent the bottom of the frittata from cooking too quickly or burning. Allow the frittata to cook undisturbed on the stovetop for 5-7 minutes. As it cooks, you’ll notice the edges of the egg mixture beginning to set. For a more even cook, you can gently swirl the skillet or use a spatula to pull back the cooked edges, allowing the uncooked egg to seep underneath.
• Finish in the Oven: Once the eggs are mostly set but still slightly jiggly in the center, carefully transfer the skillet to a preheated oven set to broil. Broil for just 2-3 minutes, keeping a very close eye on it. The frittata will puff up slightly and the top will turn a beautiful golden brown, indicating it’s fully cooked through. This broiler step gives the frittata that irresistible, slightly crispy top layer.
• Rest and Serve: Remove the frittata from the oven and let it rest in the skillet for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the eggs to fully set and makes for cleaner slices.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sausage Frittata

Unlock the Best Flavor: Essential Recipe Tips for Your Frittata

• Use an Oven-Safe Skillet: This is paramount! Since the frittata finishes its cooking under the broiler in the oven, it’s absolutely crucial to use a skillet or pan that is designed to withstand high oven temperatures. A cast iron skillet is ideal for its heat retention and oven-safe properties, but any oven-safe, handle-friendly pan will work. Always double-check your cookware’s specifications.
• Adjust the Spice Level to Your Liking: This particular frittata recipe is crafted with a delightful spicy kick from both the jalapeño pepper and crushed red pepper flakes. If you prefer a milder flavor profile, feel free to reduce the quantity of these ingredients or omit them entirely. Conversely, if you’re a heat enthusiast, don’t hesitate to add a little extra to really ignite your palate!
• Monitor Closely Under the Broiler: The broiler works quickly and intensely. While it gives the frittata a beautiful golden-brown top, it can also lead to burning in a matter of seconds. Keep a watchful eye on your frittata during its brief time under the broiler, ensuring it achieves a perfect, appealing color without overcooking.
• Allow for Resting Time: Once you remove the glorious frittata from the oven, resist the urge to slice into it immediately. Letting it rest for a few minutes in the skillet is a critical step. During this short rest, the eggs will fully set, and the frittata will slightly contract, naturally pulling away from the sides of the skillet. This makes slicing much easier and helps ensure each portion lifts out cleanly without sticking or crumbling.
• Ensure Adequate Skillet Oiling: To further guarantee a non-stick experience, make sure both the bottom and the sides of your skillet are thoroughly coated with oil, especially after cooking the sausage and before adding the egg mixture. A well-oiled pan is your best defense against sticky situations and ensures your beautiful frittata slides out effortlessly.

Customization Ideas for Your Frittata

One of the joys of making a frittata is its adaptability. This recipe is fantastic as is, but don’t hesitate to personalize it with other ingredients you love or have on hand:

• Cheese Please! Stir in half a cup of shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or a sharp Parmesan into the egg mixture before pouring, or sprinkle on top before broiling for a delicious cheesy crust.
• Vary Your Veggies: Feel free to swap or add other vegetables. Spinach, kale, mushrooms, asparagus, sun-dried tomatoes, or even cooked broccoli florets would be delightful. Just be sure to sauté harder vegetables until tender before adding the eggs.
• Herbal Freshness: Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, dill, or thyme can add a wonderful aromatic dimension. Stir them into the egg mixture or sprinkle on top before serving.
• Different Sausage Types: While kolbassa is fantastic, feel free to experiment with other pre-cooked sausages like chicken sausage, chorizo, or even plant-based options for a vegetarian twist.

The Benefits of Cooking with Cast Iron

This recipe specifically calls for a cast iron skillet, and for good reason! Cast iron offers several advantages that make it perfect for frittatas and many other dishes:

• Superior Heat Retention: Cast iron heats evenly and retains heat exceptionally well, ensuring your frittata cooks uniformly from the center to the edges.
• Natural Non-Stick Surface: With proper seasoning and care, cast iron develops a natural non-stick surface, which is ideal for egg dishes and helps prevent sticking.
• Oven-Safe Versatility: The ability to go from stovetop to oven seamlessly is crucial for frittatas, allowing for that perfect broiler finish without changing pans.
• Durability: A well-maintained cast iron skillet can last for generations, making it a valuable investment for any kitchen.

Explore More Delicious Frittata and Quiche Recipes

If you’ve enjoyed this versatile sausage frittata, you’ll love exploring other egg-based delights. These recipes offer similar ease and deliciousness, perfect for any meal:

• Air Fryer Frittata: A convenient way to make individual frittatas with minimal effort.
• Crustless Asparagus Quiche: A light and elegant option, bursting with fresh spring flavors.
• Air Fryer Quiche: Enjoy a perfectly cooked quiche, with or without a crust, right in your air fryer.
• Air Fryer Egg Bites: Ideal for grab-and-go breakfasts or healthy snacks.
• Sweet Potato Frittata: A naturally sweet and savory combination, packed with nutrients.

HUNGRY FOR MORE?  Follow Crumb Top Baking on Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook to stay updated with the latest delicious recipes and culinary inspiration!

Your feedback means the world to me! If you try this incredible Sausage Frittata with Peppers and Onions recipe, please share your thoughts and experience in the comments section below. I’d love to hear from you!

Print