Mini frittata muffins blend roasted bell pepper, zucchini, tomatoes, and red onion with creamy goat cheese and eggs, enhanced by basil, thyme, and parmesan. These bite-sized treats bake up golden and tender, ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a wholesome grab-and-go snack. Easily customize with spinach or kale, or substitute feta or ricotta for a different twist. Simple to prepare ahead and store, they suit vegetarian and gluten-free diets, making them versatile for meal prep or gatherings. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally paired with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
These roasted veg and goat cheese frittata muffins will brighten up any breakfast spread with their tangy cheese and bursts of caramelized vegetables. The Mediterranean-inspired flavors come together in a hand-held, gluten-free bite that works as meal prep, a grab-and-go snack, or a beautiful addition to a brunch table.
I created these mini frittatas after searching for a veggie-packed option my family would actually finish: the taste and texture won them over instantly. I was surprised the first time my husband asked to take extras for his work snack: now I always double the batch to keep up with demand at home.
Ingredients
- Red bell pepper: diced for sweet and smoky flavor pick peppers that are firm with shiny skin
- Zucchini: diced for moisture and mild earthiness choose small to medium zucchini without blemishes
- Cherry tomatoes: halved for juicy brightness use ripe tomatoes that are slightly soft to the touch
- Red onion: diced for subtle sweetness select onions that are heavy for their size
- Olive oil: helps roast veggies evenly opt for good quality extra virgin
- Salt: draws out flavors make sure it is fine sea salt
- Black pepper: adds a mild kick freshly ground pepper gives the best aroma
- Large eggs: provide richness and help set the frittatas use fresh eggs with firm shells
- Milk: whole or 2 percent for a creamy custard use milk that is cold and fresh tasting
- Soft goat cheese: crumbled for tanginess choose creamy goat cheese from a reputable dairy
- Grated Parmesan cheese: adds nuttiness buy whole Parmesan and grate fresh if possible
- Fresh basil: chopped for herbaceous notes use basil leaves that are bright green
- Dried thyme: offers earthy complexity use from a sealed container for full flavor
- Chili flakes: optional for a gentle heat use flakes that still have bright red color
Instructions
- Roast the Vegetables:
- Spread diced bell pepper zucchini cherry tomatoes and red onion on a parchment lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Toss well so each piece is coated then roast in a 400°F oven for about 18 to 20 minutes stirring halfway. Look for vegetables to be tender caramelized at the edges and slightly shrunken for concentrated flavor.
- Prepare the Muffin Tin:
- After roasting drop the oven temperature to 350°F. Either grease a standard 12 cup muffin tin well or line each cup with silicone liners to prevent sticking. A properly prepped pan is key for easy removal.
- Whisk the Egg Mixture:
- In a large bowl whisk together the eggs and milk vigorously until completely blended. The mixture should look even and lightly frothy which makes the frittatas light when baked.
- Add Veggies and Cheeses:
- To the egg mixture add the cooled roasted vegetables crumbled goat cheese Parmesan chopped basil thyme and chili flakes if using. Stir thoroughly to distribute everything so each muffin gets veggies and cheese in every bite.
- Fill the Muffin Cups:
- Spoon the egg and veggie mixture into the prepared muffin tin. Fill each cup about three quarters full. Take care not to overfill or the muffins will puff too high and stick. A ladle or large spoon gives you control and helps avoid spills.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the filled tin in the 350°F oven. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes. The muffins should feel set and spring back gently when touched in the center and look lightly golden on top. Overbaking can dry them out so check a minute or two before the timer ends.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the frittata muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes so they firm up making removal easy. Run a thin spatula around the edges if needed and lift them gently. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best texture.
My favorite part is the generous layer of tangy goat cheese: it melts into pockets of creaminess that make each bite so craveable. I will never forget the time my little nephew called these magic eggs after devouring three at breakfast.
Storage Tips
Store cooled muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days. For longer storage wrap each muffin individually and freeze for up to two months. To reheat just microwave for 30 seconds or warm in a 325°F oven until hot.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feta or ricotta can replace the goat cheese: the flavors change slightly but both work beautifully. If you need a dairy free version use your favorite plant based cheese and an unsweetened milk alternative. For added greens try a handful of chopped spinach or kale mixed in with the vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
These frittata muffins are delicious on their own but pair perfectly with a bright green salad or slices of avocado. For a more robust brunch serve them with a side of roasted potatoes and fresh fruit. A dollop of yogurt or salsa on top is my family's favorite finishing touch.
Cultural and Historical Context
Frittatas are a staple in Mediterranean and Italian kitchens with endless ways to use up whatever vegetables and cheese are on hand. The muffin tin adaptation makes them portable and ideal for busy modern mornings. When I visited southern Italy I was inspired by their use of garden vegetables in simple egg dishes and brought the idea home.
Seasonal Adaptations
Use roasted asparagus or spring onions in place of zucchini in spring. In summer swap in eggplant or colorful heirloom tomatoes. During the fall try cubed butternut squash and extra thyme for a cozy twist.
Success Stories
I have made these frittata muffins for baby showers office potlucks and back to school breakfasts. Every time someone asks for the recipe. One friend told me these are the only way she can get her preschooler to eat vegetables without fussing.
Freezer Meal Conversion
To make a batch for the freezer let the muffins cool fully then wrap each in plastic or foil. Place in a freezer bag or container and label. Pop one in the fridge the night before or reheat directly from frozen. They make effortless healthy breakfasts when life gets hectic.
These muffins have become my most requested make ahead brunch meal ever. There is no better feeling than seeing every last bite disappear: especially from the kids and veggie skeptics at the table.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute goat cheese with another cheese?
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Yes, feta or ricotta make excellent alternatives for a different flavor profile.
- → How do I store leftover muffins?
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Keep them refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
- → Are these suitable for gluten-free diets?
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Yes, these muffins use no wheat ingredients and are naturally gluten-free.
- → Can I add more vegetables to the mixture?
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Absolutely; spinach, kale, or chopped greens can increase the nutrition and flavor.
- → How do I prevent muffins from sticking to the pan?
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Use silicone liners or grease the tin well to ensure easy release.
- → Are these muffins freezer-friendly?
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Yes; cool thoroughly before freezing. Reheat in the oven or microwave as needed.