Neapolitan-style pasta frittata is a popular dish in southern Italy, where it’s also known as “spaghetti pie,” and it’s usually served at room temperature, making it a perfect option for picnics and parties. The dish is similar to an omelet, but instead of folding the eggs over a filling, the pasta and the fillings are mixed into the eggs before cooking, creating a crustless quiche-like dish that’s loaded with flavor and texture.
To make a Neapolitan-style pasta frittata, you can use any type of cooked pasta you have on hand, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli. You’ll also need eggs, fresh vegetables, such as onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms, and plenty of shredded cheese, such as mozzarella, parmesan, or pecorino romano. To enhance the flavor of the dish, you can also add some herbs or spices, such as parsley, basil, oregano, or red pepper flakes.
To start, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and heat some oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the vegetables and sauté until softened and slightly browned, then add the cooked pasta and toss to combine. Beat the eggs in a bowl and add them to the skillet, along with the cheese and the herbs or spices, and stir to coat everything evenly.
Let the mixture cook on the stovetop for a few minutes until the bottom sets, then transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the eggs are set. Let the frittata cool for a few minutes before slicing it into wedges and serving it at room temperature.
One of the best things about Neapolitan-style pasta frittata is how versatile it is. You can customize it based on what ingredients you have on hand or what flavors you like best. For example, you can add some cooked crumbled sausage or diced ham for a meaty version, or you can add some sautéed spinach or artichokes for a vegetarian twist. You can also use different types of cheese or herbs, or add some tomato sauce or pesto for a bold and tangy flavor.
Whether you serve it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Neapolitan-style pasta frittata is a delicious, budget-friendly, and easy-to-make dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s a great way to use up leftovers, and it’s also a tasty and comforting dish that can be enjoyed any time of the day, all year round. So, grab a fork and dig into a slice of this hearty and flavorful dish, and you’ll feel like you’re in sunny Naples with every bite. Buon appetito!