What is a Spanish Omelette?

The Spanish omelette, or tortilla española, is a traditional dish made from just a few ingredients: eggs, potatoes, olive oil, and sometimes onions. It’s thick, hearty, and incredibly satisfying — like a frittata, but with Spanish flair. Served hot or cold, it’s a staple at Spanish gatherings, tapas bars, and family dinners.

Tortilla De Patatas (Spanish Omelet With Potatoes) Recipe by Ricardo
I grew up in Buenos Aires eating this Spanish omelet at lunchtime, especially in a sandwich with mayonnaise and lettuce. One can add scallions or sausage to it. I’ve seen it stuffed with ham and cheese too. But this simple version is the most traditional and way Penélope Cruz makes it in Almodóvar’s…
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What are the Ingredients of a Spanish Omelette?

To make a Spanish omelette, you’ll need:

  • 5–6 medium potatoes (Yukon gold or russet work great)
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 medium onion (optional but traditional)
  • Olive oil (for frying)
  • Salt to taste

Simple, right? Yet the magic lies in the technique — slow-cooking the potatoes and onions until tender and flavorful, then folding them gently into whisked eggs before pan-frying into a thick, golden omelette.

How to Make a Spanish Omelette

Making a Spanish omelette is easier than you think. Here’s the basic process:

Tortilla Española (Spanish Omelet) Recipe by KevinInTheKitchen
I had this a few times while travelling in Spain, so when I got home I wanted to learn how to make it. All of the recipes I could find have about the same ingredients (it’s a very basic recipe), but I wanted to learn more about the technique to make it just like they do in Spain. I’m posting this he…
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  • Carefully flip it to cook the other side — or use the broiler to finish if flipping feels risky!

Hot Tip: Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. It tastes even better after cooling slightly!

What Does a Spanish Omelette Taste Like?

Comforting, creamy, and subtly rich. The olive oil gives it depth, the potatoes bring warmth and softness, and the eggs tie everything together. If you include onions, they add a hint of sweetness that balances the savory flavors. It’s mild enough to please picky eaters, yet satisfying for seasoned food lovers.

Spanish Omelette Calories

One slice of Spanish omelette (about 1/6 of a standard 10-inch tortilla) contains around 200–250 calories, depending on the amount of oil used. It’s a good source of protein and carbohydrates, making it a filling and balanced option for breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner.

People Also Ask...

  • What is a tortilla española?
    It’s the Spanish name for Spanish omelette — a thick egg-and-potato dish, often made with onions, and cooked in olive oil.
Healthy Oil Free Spanish Potato Omelette (Tortilla De Patata)🥔 Recipe by Bea M
I usually make Spanish potato omelette by sautéing the potatoes in oil, but this time I was short on time and decided to make a healthier, quicker version by cooking the potatoes in the microwave without oil.
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Spanish Potato And Onion Omelette (Tortilla De Patatas Y Cebolla) Recipe by MariaJoséLJ
Traditional Spanish potato and onion omelette. If you can use homegrown potatoes and fresh eggs, it’s even better. Add a splash of milk to make it fluffier.
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Spanish Omelette With Goat Cheese And Caramelized Onion Recipe by 🍏 La Cocinera Novata
I saw this recipe and decided to make it. If there’s something I love, it’s goat cheese—I could eat it by the spoonful. I’ve included the weight of my potatoes and onions. I’m a bit precise with weights and times in the kitchen. I must admit that flipping the omelette is not my strong suit, but this…
Cookpad🍏 La Cocinera Novata
  • What is the difference between a frittata and a tortilla española?
    Frittatas are usually baked and often include cheese or other fillings. Tortilla española is cooked entirely on the stove and uses fewer ingredients — mainly potatoes, eggs, and oil.
Ham And Pea Frittata Recipe by Miss Fluffy’s Cooking (Angie’s Italian Cooking)
I made this for my lunch to take to work. Made it last night, brought it in for lunch! Have as a main meal with a salad or even a picnic #frittata #lunch #dinner #mainmeal #picnic
CookpadMiss Fluffy’s Cooking (Angie’s Italian Cooking)
  • How is the tortilla española different from a tortilla from Mexico?
    Totally different foods! The Mexican tortilla is a flatbread made from corn or flour, while the Spanish tortilla is an egg-based omelette.
Wheat Flour Tortillas Recipe by lenny
In northern Mexico, flour tortillas are a staple for meals. They are used to make burritos, quesadillas, sincronizadas, and thicker, smaller versions called gorditas with authentic Mexican fillings. Here is my version, which is also the common version.
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  • What to put on tortilla española?
    You can top it with aioli, a sprinkle of paprika, or serve it with a side of salad or crusty bread. Some enjoy it with hot sauce or even a light drizzle of tomato puree.
Easy Garlic Pepper Aioli Recipe by StephieCanCook
This delicious aioli is simple and quick to throw together. I first made it for my “Best BLTs Ever” (recipe on my page), but it’ll go great on chicken, crab cakes, burgers, and more!
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  • Can you make tortilla española in the air fryer?

Absolutely! You can make a Spanish omelette in the air fryer for a lighter, hands-off version of this classic dish. It’s a great way to cut down on oil while still achieving a golden outside and tender, flavorful center. Whether you're cooking for one or meal prepping ahead, the air fryer is a smart and efficient twist on the traditional stovetop method. Below, we’ll share a few recipe ideas to get you started.

Spanish Omelette Using Air Fryer Recipe by Lucia Salcidos
I love “tortilla de patatas” (how we call it in Spain), but hate to fry things with so much oil. Therefore, I hardly prepared Spanish omelettes until I bought the Air Fryer. Now, with this healthier version (not as healthy as I always add chorizo...!), we prepare almost every week!!
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🥄 Try It Tonight — And Make It Your Own!

Whether you’re new to Spanish food or already in love with tapas, the Spanish omelette is a must-try. Its simple ingredients and rich, comforting taste make it a crowd-pleaser every time. You can enjoy it warm or cold, at brunch or as a midnight snack.

Want more Spanish-inspired recipes?