This Low Country Shrimp Frittata captures the heart and soul of Southern cooking, bringing together tender shrimp, colorful veggies, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese in one irresistible dish. Perfect for a hearty brunch or a light dinner, this recipe is easy enough for any day but special enough for weekend gatherings.
With a vibrant blend of flavors and textures, this frittata offers the savory warmth of Southern comfort food with the ease of a one-pan meal. Serve it hot from the oven with a simple green salad or a side of fresh fruit to round out a delightful meal that feels both homey and festive.
Full Recipe:
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8 large eggs
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1/4 cup heavy cream
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1 teaspoon hot sauce
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Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
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1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
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1/2 cup diced yellow onion
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1/2 cup thinly sliced scallions
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1/2 cup cooked diced red potatoes
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1/2 cup cooked chopped shrimp
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1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, hot sauce, a pinch of salt, and some freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
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In an oven-safe, nonstick skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
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Add the red and green bell peppers, onion, and scallions, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
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Stir in the cooked potatoes and shrimp, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
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Pour the egg mixture evenly over the vegetables and shrimp.
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Cook undisturbed until the edges begin to set, about 2-3 minutes.
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Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
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Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake until the frittata is set and slightly golden on top, about 8-10 minutes.
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Let cool slightly before slicing into wedges and serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Introduction to Low Country Shrimp Frittata
The Low Country Shrimp Frittata is a celebration of Southern flavors, combining the bounty of coastal seafood with the homey, comforting elements of traditional Southern cooking. This dish is rooted in the culinary traditions of the Low Country region—a stretch of coastal South Carolina and Georgia known for its rich cultural tapestry and vibrant food heritage. With shrimp as the star, this frittata embodies the perfect balance of hearty, creamy, and savory notes that make it a standout dish for brunches, light dinners, and family gatherings.
Brimming with colorful vegetables, fluffy eggs, tender shrimp, and melty cheese, this frittata is more than just a meal—it’s a soulful experience that invites warmth, community, and good times around the table.
The Southern Roots Behind the Dish
Low Country cuisine is deeply intertwined with African, French, Spanish, and Caribbean influences, and its seafood dishes are particularly revered. Shrimp holds a place of pride in this cuisine, often featured in iconic recipes like shrimp and grits, shrimp boils, and seafood stews. The Low Country Shrimp Frittata offers a creative twist on showcasing shrimp, embedding it into a versatile, fluffy egg bake that’s suitable for any meal of the day.
Frittatas, originally an Italian creation, have found a beloved place in Southern kitchens, where the love of comfort food meets the practical need for one-pan, nourishing meals. By adapting the traditional frittata with distinctly Southern ingredients—like bell peppers, onions, creamy potatoes, and a kick of hot sauce—this recipe bridges the gap between Italian technique and Low Country soul.
What Makes This Frittata Stand Out
What sets the Low Country Shrimp Frittata apart is its thoughtful layering of textures and flavors. The sweetness of the red and green bell peppers contrasts beautifully with the savoriness of the shrimp and the rich creaminess of the cheese. The use of cooked red potatoes adds a tender, hearty element that ensures each bite is both satisfying and balanced.
The addition of a touch of hot sauce in the egg mixture provides a subtle but important heat that awakens the palate without overpowering the dish. Meanwhile, the quick oven bake ensures that the eggs stay light and tender, locking in the moisture and keeping the shrimp succulent and juicy.
Unlike many frittatas that can sometimes be dry or bland, this version is anything but—it’s moist, vibrant, and bursting with coastal flavor.
Perfect for Brunch and Beyond
This frittata is the ultimate brunch centerpiece. It pairs effortlessly with a light, fresh salad, some buttery biscuits, or a medley of seasonal fruits. Its vibrant colors and aromatic appeal make it visually stunning as well, elevating any brunch spread to a restaurant-quality presentation.
But its versatility doesn’t end there. This dish is equally fitting for a casual weeknight dinner, a picnic, or even as a meal prep option. It can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or even cold, which makes it an ideal choice for potlucks, gatherings, and meal planning. The balance of protein, vegetables, and flavor-packed elements ensures that it’s a nutritionally satisfying option for various occasions.
Tips to Make It Even Better
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Use Fresh Shrimp: Whenever possible, opt for fresh, wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If you must use frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly and pat them dry to avoid adding excess moisture to the frittata.
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Customize the Vegetables: The base recipe includes red and green bell peppers, onions, and scallions, but you can easily customize it with other vegetables. Spinach, zucchini, corn, or even diced tomatoes can add different flavors and textures.
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Cheese Choices: While sharp white cheddar adds a lovely depth of flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a crumbled goat cheese for a tangy twist.
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Season Thoughtfully: Because shrimp is naturally salty, be cautious when adding extra salt to the egg mixture. Always taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to suit your preference.
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Non-Stick or Cast Iron Skillet: Using a good non-stick or well-seasoned cast iron skillet will ensure that your frittata slides out easily without sticking, and it will help create a beautiful golden crust on the bottom.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Overcooking: Eggs cook quickly, especially in a frittata. Overbaking can lead to a rubbery texture. Keep an eye on your frittata, and remove it from the oven once the center is just set but still slightly jiggly—it will continue to cook slightly after being removed.
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Not Pre-cooking Fillings: Vegetables and shrimp release moisture when they cook. Always sauté them first to release their excess water; otherwise, your frittata can turn out soggy.
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Uneven Distribution: Make sure the shrimp and vegetables are evenly spread throughout the skillet before adding the eggs. This ensures that every slice is equally delicious and balanced.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
The Low Country Shrimp Frittata isn’t just about great taste—it’s about celebrating community, culture, and comfort. Whether you’re hosting a laid-back brunch or whipping up a quick dinner after a busy day, this dish feels like a hug on a plate.
Its adaptability means you can make it your own, adding your favorite seasonal ingredients or turning up the heat if you like it spicy. It’s also a fantastic way to stretch ingredients, making an impressive meal out of what you may already have on hand. Best of all, it’s a recipe that invites sharing—because good food always tastes better when enjoyed together.
Serving Suggestions
For a classic Southern brunch, pair the frittata with buttery grits, hot honey-drizzled fried chicken, and a side of collard greens. For a lighter meal, a crisp arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette provides a peppery contrast to the richness of the frittata.
Don’t forget the beverages! A pitcher of sweet tea, mimosas, or even a spicy Bloody Mary will round out the meal beautifully.
And if you’re prepping ahead, simply slice the frittata into wedges, wrap them tightly, and store in the fridge for up to three days. It’s a meal prepper’s dream—delicious, convenient, and ready to enjoy at a moment’s notice.
Conclusion
The Low Country Shrimp Frittata is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of flavor, tradition, and versatility. By marrying the fresh, sweet shrimp of coastal waters with the hearty, soul-soothing ingredients of Southern kitchens, this frittata brings the best of both worlds to your table.
Perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner, it’s a dish that feels both luxurious and accessible. Whether you’re sharing it with friends over a lazy Sunday brunch or making it for a quick weeknight meal, this frittata is sure to become a favorite. Its colorful presentation, bold flavors, and ease of preparation make it a recipe worth revisiting again and again.
So next time you’re looking for something that’s a little special, a lot comforting, and full of heart, the Low Country Shrimp Frittata will be ready to shine.