Dorothy's Bacon and Potato Frittata

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Dorothy’s Bacon and Potato Frittata, a culinary masterpiece that brings together farm-fresh eggs, savory crispy bacon, tender fluffy potatoes, rich Swiss cheese, and the unmistakable, unique taste of Dorothy Lynch Home Style Dressing. This exquisite combination creates the ultimate dish, perfect for any spring brunch, a hearty breakfast, a delightful lunch, or even a light dinner. It’s a versatile recipe designed to impress and satisfy, making every bite a celebration of comforting flavors and quality ingredients.

Here in Nebraska, the arrival of spring is often heralded by a series of delightful yet unpredictable weather “teasers.” Our climate is known for its dramatic fluctuations; just this week, we experienced a record-high 80 degrees on Monday, followed by unexpected snow flurries on Tuesday, and then single-digit temperatures by Wednesday. This meteorological roller coaster has taught us the art of dressing in layers and embracing the flow of nature. But regardless of the daily forecast, we eagerly anticipate the true essence of spring: vibrant gardens blooming, the joyous celebrations of Easter and Mother’s Day, and for many, especially me, the perfect excuse for a delicious brunch. Today, I am thrilled to share with you an exceptional frittata recipe that embodies the spirit of these warmer days.

This post is proudly sponsored by Nebraska’s own Dorothy Lynch Home Style Dressing & Condiment, a product I genuinely love and wholeheartedly recommend. All opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.

The Irresistible Dorothy’s Bacon and Potato Frittata: A Brunch Essential

This standout bacon and potato frittata recipe is designed for ease and maximum flavor, beginning its journey on the stovetop. Here, crispy bacon is rendered to perfection, its savory fat becoming the foundation for beautifully browned, tender potatoes. Fresh spinach is then added, wilting gently into the mix, infusing earthy notes. The heart of the frittata—a luxurious blend of eggs, creamy half & half, tangy Dorothy Lynch Dressing, nutty Swiss cheese, and fragrant fresh herbs—is poured over these sautéed ingredients. A brief cook on the stove sets the edges, creating a delightful crust, before the entire dish is transferred to the oven to bake to golden perfection. The result is a truly satisfying and hearty combination of rich eggs and vibrant vegetables, a meal that feels both wholesome and indulgent.

One of the most appealing aspects of this frittata is its adaptability. While our recipe highlights a superb combination, you can easily customize the ingredients based on what’s fresh and available. With spring just around the corner, take full advantage of the season’s bounty. Swap in fresh spring produce like asparagus, peas, or tender leeks for a delightful variation, offering a welcome change from the more robust flavors of winter vegetables. This flexibility makes the frittata not just a recipe, but a canvas for your culinary creativity.

A Versatile Frittata Recipe for Any Time of Day

Whether you’re planning a leisurely breakfast, a quick and satisfying lunch, or a light yet fulfilling dinner, this bacon and potato frittata delivers every time. Its robust flavors and comforting texture make it an ideal meal throughout the year, but it truly shines when prepared with fresh, local produce. Imagine the taste of garden-fresh herbs and crisp greens enhancing every forkful – a truly delightful experience.

For those who prioritize meal prep, this frittata is a fantastic option. It can be easily made ahead of time, providing a super convenient solution for busy weeknight dinners or grab-and-go breakfasts. The best part? Leftovers are just as delicious, if not more so, the next day. This exceptional frittata maintains its wonderful taste whether served hot, at room temperature, or even cold, making it incredibly versatile. Egg dishes, in general, are celebrated for their adaptability, proving to be the perfect foundation for a nutritious and delicious meal any time of the day.

If you’ve fallen in love with Dorothy’s Bacon and Potato Frittata, you’ll be thrilled to discover other beloved recipes featuring the distinct flavor of Dorothy Lynch Dressing. Be sure to try Dorothy’s Potato Salad, a creamy and tangy classic; Dorothy’s Slow Cooker Glazed Ham, perfect for holidays and family gatherings; or Dorothy’s Impossible Pie With Bacon and Swiss, a delightful savory pie that’s surprisingly easy to make. Each of these recipes showcases the incredible versatility of this unique dressing.

Effortless Elegance: Your Easy Frittata Recipe

This egg frittata offers the best of both worlds, similar to a crustless quiche in its rich, custard-like texture, yet as simple as an elevated omelet to prepare. What sets it apart is its unique cooking method: it’s partially cooked over the stove, allowing the base to firm up and flavors to meld, before being transferred to the oven to finish baking. This dual-stage cooking ensures a perfectly set center and beautifully golden edges. The beauty of a frittata lies in its simplicity – no fussy crusts or intricate folding techniques required, making it an ideal recipe for feeding a crowd or for those moments when time is of the essence. Using a trusty cast-iron skillet not only aids in even cooking but also allows for a seamless transition from stovetop to oven, simplifying the process even further.

Key Ingredients for this Cast-Iron Frittata in the Oven

To create the perfect frittata, each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. For a comprehensive list of quantities and detailed instructions, please scroll to the bottom of this post for the full printable recipe card.

Eggs: The foundational element of any frittata, providing the rich, custardy base. Whether you choose white, brown, free-range, or organic, fresh eggs are key to a delicious and fluffy outcome.
Dorothy Lynch Dressing: This is the secret ingredient that truly elevates this frittata. This unique dressing imparts a distinctive sweet and tangy flavor profile, adding depth and a subtle zest that transforms a simple egg dish into something truly special and unforgettable.
Half & Half: Essential for achieving that luxurious creaminess in the eggs. It contributes to a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. For those desiring a lighter option, whole milk can be substituted, or for an even richer, more decadent frittata, heavy cream works beautifully.
Swiss Cheese: Shredded Swiss cheese melts beautifully, adding a wonderful nutty flavor and a gooey, cheesy goodness throughout the frittata, complementing the bacon and potatoes perfectly.
Salt: A fundamental seasoning that enhances all the other flavors in the dish. Proper seasoning ensures a well-balanced and delicious frittata.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a delightful aromatic warmth and a subtle spicy kick, providing a pleasant contrast to the other ingredients.
Chives: Freshly minced chives offer a delicate oniony flavor and a touch of vibrant green color, brightening both the taste and appearance of the frittata.
Parsley: Freshly minced parsley brings a clean, herbaceous note and additional color. Its mild, fresh flavor complements the richness of the eggs and bacon without overpowering them.
Bacon: Crispy, crumbled bacon provides a burst of savory, smoky flavor and a satisfying texture. Its natural saltiness pairs wonderfully with the potatoes and eggs, forming the backbone of this hearty dish.
Golden Potatoes: Cubed golden potatoes, with their skins left on for added nutrients and rustic appeal, contribute a hearty substance and a satisfying texture to the frittata. They become tender and slightly caramelized when cooked, adding a delicious sweetness.
Green Onions (Scallions): Sliced green onions offer a fresh, mild onion flavor. The white and light green bottoms are incorporated into the frittata for flavor, while the darker green tops are reserved for a fresh, colorful garnish.
Baby Spinach: Chopped baby spinach adds a lovely earthy flavor, a delicate texture, and a beautiful pop of green color, boosting the nutritional value and freshness of the dish.

Crafting Your Delicious Spinach Frittata: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making the perfect frittata is straightforward with just a few simple steps. Follow these instructions to achieve a beautifully cooked, flavorful dish:

Before you begin cooking, preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. This ensures your oven is at the correct temperature for baking, leading to an evenly cooked frittata.

In a large, oven-safe cast iron skillet (or a similar heavy-bottomed, oven-safe pan), cook the bacon over medium heat until it becomes wonderfully golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain, reserving a small amount of the rendered bacon fat in the skillet. This flavorful fat will be used to cook the potatoes. It’s crucial not to wipe the pan clean; those bits of flavor add depth.

Add the cubed golden potatoes to the same skillet, utilizing the reserved bacon fat. Cook them over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly browned, tender, and slightly caramelized. This step builds a robust flavor base for the frittata.

Next, return the cooked, crumbled bacon to the skillet with the potatoes and stir them together to combine their flavors. Then, add the chopped baby spinach. Cook for approximately one minute, stirring gently, until the spinach wilts down significantly. This ensures the spinach is tender and integrated into the dish.

While the bacon, potatoes, and spinach are cooking, prepare your flavorful egg mixture. In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together the half & half, Dorothy Lynch Dressing, and eggs until they are well combined and slightly frothy. This aeration helps create a lighter frittata. Next, mix in the salt and pepper, shredded Swiss cheese, fresh minced parsley, fresh minced chives, and the white and light green bottoms of the green onions. Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Pour the prepared egg mixture evenly over the top of the potato, bacon, and spinach mixture already in the skillet. Let it cook on the stovetop for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the edges of the frittata are visibly set and begin to pull away slightly from the sides of the pan. This step is crucial for achieving a stable base before baking.

Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the center of the frittata is completely set (a gentle jiggle should show no liquid movement) and the edges are beautifully golden brown. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to a dry texture.

Once baked, remove the frittata from the oven and allow it to stand for 5 minutes before cutting into wedges. This resting period allows the eggs to set further and makes for cleaner, more defined slices. Garnish with additional fresh herbs like chives or parsley, or the reserved green onion tops, if desired, for an extra touch of color and freshness.

To store leftovers, ensure the frittata has cooled completely to room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for 2-3 days. For extended storage, frittata freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the microwave or oven.

Love it? Pin it for Later!

If you’re as excited about this simple frittata recipe as we are, make sure you save it for future enjoyment! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you navigate away. This way, you’ll always have this fantastic dish at your fingertips for your next brunch, breakfast, or any meal in between.

Unveiling the Magic: What Is Dorothy Lynch Dressing?

The legendary “Dorothy Lynch” was a real woman who, in the 1940s, crafted this iconic dressing in St. Paul, Nebraska. She served it at a local Legion Club restaurant she operated with her husband, and it quickly became an undeniable hit. Patrons couldn’t get enough, often bringing their own bottles to be refilled so they could savor Dorothy’s creation in their own homes. This humble beginning marked the birth of a truly beloved Midwestern staple.

Dorothy Lynch Home Style Dressing & Condiment is best characterized by its unique sweet and spicy flavor profile, coupled with a wonderfully thick and creamy texture. Due to its distinctive reddish-orange hue, many people mistakenly assume it’s just another French dressing. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Traditional French dressing is typically oil-based, while Dorothy Lynch is distinctly tomato-based, giving it a richer, more complex taste. The single most fitting word to describe its unparalleled flavor is “homemade,” evoking a sense of comfort, quality, and nostalgia that sets it apart from all others.

Beyond the Salad Bowl: Creative Uses for Dorothy Lynch Dressing

There’s no denying that Dorothy Lynch Home Style Dressing is absolutely phenomenal on a salad—it’s how most of us Nebraskans first fell in love with it. Its sweet and tangy zest perfectly complements a crisp green salad, making it a go-to choice for a refreshing side dish.

However, Dorothy Lynch is far more versatile than just a salad dressing. It excels as a condiment, adding an exciting twist to everyday meals. Imagine dipping your golden french fries into its creamy goodness, drizzling it over a slice of hot pizza for an unexpected burst of flavor, or pairing it with fried chicken for a truly elevated culinary experience. Its thick texture makes it an ideal dipping sauce.

For those mindful of their calorie intake, Dorothy Lynch also offers a Light & Lean option, which delivers the same endless “flavorbilities” without compromising on its signature taste. This ensures everyone can enjoy the unique appeal of Dorothy Lynch.

But where Dorothy Lynch truly shines is when you start incorporating it into your recipes. That’s when ordinary dishes transform into extraordinary, incredibly tasty creations! I’ve experimented with it in countless ways, from marinades to glazes, and I highly encourage you to explore its full potential in your own kitchen. Each application unlocks a new dimension of flavor that you absolutely need to try!

Frequently Asked Questions About This Easy Vegetable Frittata Recipe

Curious about frittatas? Here are some common questions and detailed answers to help you master this delicious dish:

What exactly is a frittata? A frittata is a wonderfully versatile Italian egg-based dish. Often described as a crustless quiche or a thicker, more substantial omelet, it’s typically started on the stovetop and then finished in the oven. This method creates a beautifully puffed, golden-brown top and a tender, custardy interior, making it ideal for incorporating various fillings like vegetables, cheeses, and meats.
What’s the difference between a frittata and an omelet? While both are egg dishes, their preparation and presentation differ significantly. An omelet is cooked entirely on the stovetop, often quickly, and folded over its fillings, typically serving one person. A frittata, on the other hand, is usually started on the stovetop to set the bottom and then baked in the oven to cook through, resulting in a thicker, round dish that is sliced and served in wedges, perfect for sharing.
How does a frittata differ from a quiche? Both frittatas and quiches are egg-based, savory custard dishes. The primary distinction lies in the crust and dairy content. Quiches almost always feature a pastry crust and often contain a higher proportion of heavy cream or milk, giving them a very rich, delicate texture. Frittatas are crustless, generally use less dairy (or a lighter form), and rely on a quicker cooking method, making them a simpler, often lighter alternative.
Which is healthier: a frittata or an omelet? Both frittatas and omelets can be healthy meal options, largely depending on the ingredients used. If loaded with fresh vegetables and lean proteins, both are excellent choices. Generally, a frittata might be considered slightly healthier if it contains less added fat and dairy compared to a rich omelet, but the overall nutritional value is determined by the specific recipe’s ingredients and portion sizes.
How can I ensure my frittata stays fluffy? While eggs naturally deflate somewhat after cooking, there are several tricks to maximize fluffiness. First, avoid overmixing the eggs; whisk them just enough to combine. Second, ensure your oven is fully preheated before transferring the skillet, as a hot oven helps the frittata puff up quickly. Third, be vigilant about cooking time; overcooked eggs become rubbery and dense. Finally, allow the frittata to rest for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven before slicing; this allows the internal structure to set, retaining more of that desired fluffiness.

Creative Substitutions to Customize Your Frittata

Embrace your culinary adventurousness when it comes to frittata recipes! Don’t hesitate to get creative and tailor ingredients to your personal taste preferences, dietary needs, or simply what you have on hand. Making it your own is part of the fun!

Cheese Swaps: For a different kind of saltiness, try tangy feta cheese instead of Swiss. If you prefer more creaminess and a slightly pungent flavor, goat cheese works beautifully. Shredded cheddar or Gruyère can also add wonderful depth and melt appeal.
Herb Variations: Change up the fresh herbs to create a whole new profile. For an Italian-inspired frittata, substitute parsley and chives with fresh basil and oregano. Rosemary and thyme can add a rustic, earthy touch, especially if you’re using other root vegetables.
Dairy Alternatives: If half & half isn’t available or you’re seeking a different texture, sour cream or Greek yogurt can provide a tangier, richer base. For an even more indulgent frittata, opt for heavy cream, or use any type of milk (whole, 2%, skim) for a lighter consistency.
Potato Alternatives: While golden potatoes are fantastic, sweet potatoes offer a lovely sweetness and vibrant color. Red potatoes or Yukon Golds also make excellent substitutes, each bringing a slightly different texture and flavor to the dish.
Vegetable Additions: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover vegetables. Consider adding sautéed bell peppers (any color), mushrooms, zucchini, chopped asparagus, or even roasted broccoli. Just ensure they are cooked until tender before adding to the egg mixture.
Protein Boosts: If you want to change up the protein, cooked ham, sausage (breakfast or Italian), or even smoked salmon can be excellent additions, providing different flavors and textures to complement the eggs.

Expert Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Frittata

Achieving a consistently delicious frittata is easy with these insider tips:

Prepare Your Cast Iron Skillet: Before you start cooking, ensure your cast iron skillet is well-seasoned. If it’s not, a light coating of olive oil can help prevent sticking and contribute to a beautiful golden-brown crust. A well-maintained cast iron skillet is your best friend for frittatas, offering superior heat retention and a seamless transition from stovetop to oven.
Embrace the “Clean-Out-the-Fridge” Mentality: This frittata recipe is wonderfully adaptable and serves as an excellent opportunity to use up any leftover vegetables you have on hand. Sautéed red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, cooked broccoli florets, or any other leftover cooked veggies can be incorporated. This not only adds variety and nutrients to your meal but also helps reduce food waste and save a few dollars on your grocery bill.
Avoid Overcooking: The key to a moist and tender frittata is to avoid overcooking the eggs. Overcooked eggs can become rubbery and dry. Keep a close eye on your frittata during the oven baking phase. It’s done when the center is set (a slight jiggle will show no liquid movement) and the edges are lightly golden. The residual heat will continue to cook it slightly after removal.
Serving Suggestions: While delicious on its own, a frittata pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette (or, of course, Dorothy Lynch Dressing!). Fresh fruit or warm toast also make excellent accompaniments, creating a complete and satisfying meal.
Different Pan Sizes: If you don’t have a 10-inch cast iron skillet, you can adjust. A smaller skillet might require a longer cooking time and result in a thicker frittata, while a larger skillet could lead to a thinner frittata that cooks faster. Just adjust your cooking times accordingly and look for the visual cues of a set center and golden edges.

More Dorothy Lynch Recipes to Adore

I’ve been incredibly fortunate to collaborate with Dorothy Lynch for quite some time, exploring countless delicious ways to incorporate this exceptional dressing into everyday cooking. You can discover all my Dorothy Lynch-infused creations by simply searching “Dorothy Lynch” on my website. To get you started on your culinary journey, here are a few highly recommended recipes that showcase its incredible versatility:

The Original Sloppy Dorothy Sandwich (pictured above): A fun, flavorful twist on a classic comfort food.
Dorothy’s Cheesy Bacon Pull Apart Bread: An addictive appetizer or side dish, perfect for sharing.
Dorothy’s BBQ Pork Chops (featuring Dorothy Lynch BBQ Sauce): Tender pork chops coated in a uniquely tangy and sweet barbecue sauce.
Taco Salads with Dorothy Lynch Taco Seasoning and Taco Sauce: Elevate your taco night with this unexpected flavor booster.
Dorothy’s Hot Taco Dip: A warm, cheesy, and utterly irresistible dip for any gathering.

Where to Find Your Own Dorothy Lynch Dressing

Dorothy Lynch Dressing & Condiment is a regional gem that has captivated hearts across the Midwest. You can typically find it at most grocery stores throughout Nebraska. Additionally, it is available at select grocery stores west of the Mississippi, including popular retailers like Walmart and Hy-Vee. If you’re having trouble locating this distinctive dressing in your local store, you can easily stock your pantry by shopping online at Buy Nebraska, ensuring you never run out of this unique flavor enhancer.

Stay connected with the Dorothy Lynch community for more recipe inspiration, tips, and updates! Be sure to follow Dorothy Lynch on Facebook, Instagram, X, and Pinterest. You can also explore their official website for an extensive collection of delicious recipes featuring this beloved dressing.

In conclusion, this Dorothy’s Bacon and Potato Frittata truly stands out as the best frittata recipe you’ll encounter. It’s not only incredibly delicious but also remarkably easy to prepare, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Paired beautifully with a crisp side salad, generously dressed with Dorothy Lynch, of course, it creates a complete and utterly perfect meal for any spring brunch, or indeed, any occasion that calls for comforting yet elegant fare.

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Slice of Bacon & Potato Frittata and a side salad on a white plate

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Print Recipe

Dorothy’s Bacon & Potato Frittata

Indulge in the tasty flavors of this Dorothy’s Bacon and Potato Frittata where fresh eggs, crispy bacon, fluffy potatoes, Swiss cheese, and the distinctive flavor of Dorothy Lynch Dressing come together for the perfect spring brunch.

Prep Time: 10 mins

Cook Time: 30 mins

Total Time: 40 mins

Course: Breakfast/Brunch

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Dorothy Lynch, easy frittata recipe, frittata, frittata in the oven, frittata recipe, spinach frittata

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 179kcal

Author: Michaela Kenkel

Equipment

12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
Herb Scissors
OXO Good Grips Egg Beater
Whisks for Cooking, 3 Pack Stainless Steel Whisk
Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet With Assist Handle, 10.25″, Black
Buy Dorothy Lynch

Ingredients

1 dozen (12) eggs
⅓ cup Dorothy Lynch Dressing
⅔ cup half & half
1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 Tablespoons fresh chives, minced
2 Tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
5 strips of bacon
1 cup golden potatoes, skins left on, cubed
7 green onions, sliced, tops separated from the bottoms
2 cups baby spinach, chopped

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
In a large cast iron skillet, cook bacon until it is golden brown. Remove from the skillet and drain excess grease, reserving a small amount in the pan. Do not wipe the pan clean. Add cubed golden potatoes to the skillet and cook over medium heat until lightly browned and tender.
While the bacon and potatoes cook, prepare the egg mixture. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the half & half, Dorothy Lynch Dressing, and eggs until well combined and slightly frothy. Stir in the salt, black pepper, shredded Swiss cheese, minced parsley, minced chives, and the white and light green bottoms of the green onions.
Once the potatoes are lightly browned, return the cooked, crumbled bacon to the skillet. Add the chopped baby spinach and cook for approximately one minute, stirring gently, until the spinach wilts down.
Pour the prepared egg mixture evenly over the top of the potato, bacon, and spinach mixture in the skillet. Let it cook on the stovetop for 2 to 3 minutes until the edges of the frittata begin to set.
Carefully transfer the cast iron skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the center of the frittata is set and firm to the touch, and the edges are beautifully golden brown.
Remove the frittata from the oven and let it stand for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the frittata to set completely and makes for cleaner slices.
Garnish with the reserved green onion tops and additional fresh herbs like chives or parsley, if desired, for a final touch of color and freshness.

Notes

To Store: Allow any leftover frittata to cool completely to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for 2-3 days. For longer storage, cooled frittata can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.

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