Frittata Vs. Breakfast Casserole: Is There Really A Difference?

While breakfast may no longer be considered the most important meal of the day, it's still crucial for health and wellness according to Medical News Today. Research shows that a hearty breakfast provides essential nutrients, while also reducing disease risk when eaten on a daily basis. People who make breakfast a priority also tend to lead healthier lifestyles, both in terms of diet and activity levels. Breakfast is especially beneficial when the meal contains healthy, wholesome ingredients like eggs.

As stated by Healthline, eggs make the perfect breakfast food because they contain plenty of protein. In addition to supporting muscle health, eggs also make people feel fuller longer after eating, which is perfect for avoiding mid-morning hunger pangs. Eggs are also a staple of popular preparations like frittatas and breakfast casseroles, both of which make for a filling and hearty morning meal. While these dishes have quite a few similarities, they are also quite different in a few ways.

As illustrated by the Seattle Times, the origins of the casserole are somewhat debated. The prevailing theory is that the dish was invented in New Hampshire by Elmire Jolicoeur in the late 1800s, but there's no tangible evidence supporting this claim. It's most likely that the recipe was developed by numerous cooks over time and was particularly popular during tumultuous periods when families were scrambling for the basic necessities.

Like other versions of the dish, the ingredients that go into breakfast casseroles can vary from chef to chef. TODAY shares a recipe that contains lots of hearty ingredients perfect for a big breakfast or even lunch or dinner. The recipe includes eggs, sausage, potatoes, cheese, tomatoes, spinach, and scallions, as well as seasonings and more. After pan-frying the sausage, the ingredients are added to a large baking pan and placed into the oven. This is the major distinction between casseroles and frittatas, as the latter dish is cooked exclusively in a frying pan.

According to Delallo, frittatas originated in Italy and are considered a classic home-cooked comfort food. The name itself comes from the Italian word "to fry" or "friggere," which refers to the common method of preparing the dish. In most cases, frittatas are created using lots of leftover ingredients, which makes them a highly fulfilling and convenient meal for Italian families on the go. In addition to the egg base, frittatas can also include cheese, meat, veggies, or even pasta depending on what's hanging around the kitchen. The resulting dish is similar to an omelet, but it tends to be thicker and more rustic.

Notably, most frittata recipes do not contain potatoes, which makes them distinct from breakfast casseroles. The Incredible Egg shares a frittata recipe that incorporates lots of filling ingredients. Along with eggs, the recipe also calls for cheddar cheese, green onion, and broccoli, along with salt and pepper seasoning and Dijon mustard for a bit of spice. The inclusion of healthy veggies means this morning meal is ideal for health-conscious diners. If you're looking for a heavier version, here's a cheese and veggie frittata you can try.