Name: Baked Eggs Florentine Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 large eggs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 8 oz fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped (or thawed frozen spinach, squeezed dry); 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 34 reviews

If you have ever wondered how to transform simple eggs and spinach into a luxurious, comforting breakfast or brunch, this Baked Eggs Florentine Recipe is your go-to solution. It’s an elegant dish that combines the earthiness of sautéed spinach with the richness of creamy cheeses and perfectly baked eggs, all brought together in a cozy, oven-baked creation. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a deliciously wholesome start to your day, this recipe brings a fresh twist on a classic dish that’s both satisfying and utterly irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Baked Eggs Florentine Recipe - Recipe Image

All the ingredients for this dish are straightforward, yet each plays an essential role in delivering the right balance of flavors and textures. Their freshness and quality make all the difference, ensuring every bite feels special and vibrant.

Spinach: The star of the dish, providing vibrant color and essential nutrients like iron and vitamins.
Eggs: Rich in protein and healthy fats, they add structure and creaminess to the dish.
Parmesan and Mozzarella: The combination of cheeses creates a creamy, golden topping that enhances the spinach base.
Garlic and Onion: Aromatic and flavorful, these ingredients elevate the dish with depth and complexity.
Heavy cream or half-and-half: Adds luxurious richness and smoothness throughout the spinach layer.
Olive oil or unsalted butter: Essential for sautéing the aromatics and spinach to a tender, flavorful state.
Salt, pepper, and optional ground nutmeg: Perfect seasoning touches that bring the entire dish together.
Fresh parsley or chives: For a bright, fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and herbaceous flavor.

How to Make Baked Eggs Florentine Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the baking dish is ready, so when your spinach and eggs are prepared, you can move swiftly without losing heat. Lightly grease a medium baking dish or four ramekins with olive oil or butter to prevent sticking and add subtle flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Spinach Mixture

Heat your chosen fat in a skillet over medium heat. Once warm, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and sweet, about 3 to 4 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook until just fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes. The aroma at this point will be absolutely dreamy. Toss in your fresh or thawed spinach and cook until wilted — roughly 2 to 3 minutes. Season generously with salt, pepper, and a hint of ground nutmeg if you like a subtle warmth. Once perfectly cooked, transfer this vibrant mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish or ramekins, laying the foundation for the baked eggs.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Base

Pour the heavy cream or half-and-half right over the spinach layer, letting it seep through to add creaminess and moisture. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese across the spinach base, which will melt into a flavorful, salty crust that balances the creaminess perfectly.

Step 4: Add the Eggs

Using the back of a spoon, create four small wells in the spinach mixture to cradle the eggs. Carefully crack one egg into each well, keeping those bright yolks intact — this is the showstopper of the dish! Lightly season the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.

Step 5: Top with Cheese

Now, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese on top, taking care to avoid covering the egg yolks so they stay visible and inviting. This cheesy layer will melt and brown beautifully during baking, adding a luscious texture and a golden finish.

Step 6: Bake

Slide your dish into the hot oven and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes if you prefer slightly runny yolks – perfectly soft and luxurious. For fully set yolks, bake for 18 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it to achieve your preferred doneness. The smell that fills your kitchen as it bakes is enough reason to dive right in.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a fresh herbal note and a splash of color. Serve this gorgeous baked eggs florentine recipe warm with some crusty bread or alongside a bright, crisp salad to complete your meal.

How to Serve Baked Eggs Florentine Recipe

A black skillet filled with five cooked eggs, each with bright orange yolks sitting on a layer of melted white cheese mixed with dark green, wilted spinach scattered around. The eggs are evenly spaced, and the cheese is golden and slightly browned at the edges of the skillet. The surface beneath the skillet shows a white marbled texture, with a wooden board holding bread blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finishing touches like fresh parsley or chives bring a vibrant, fresh scent and a gentle crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy spinach and egg. You could also add a light dusting of paprika or a drizzle of hot sauce if you like a bit of kick. These little extras take the presentation and flavor to another level.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs delightfully with a variety of sides. Think crispy roasted potatoes, freshly baked sourdough bread, or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. These accompaniments complement the richness of the baked eggs while keeping the meal balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming brunch display, try baking the eggs in individual ramekins and serving them as personal portions. You can also layer this dish over toasted English muffins or even inside warm pita pockets topped with extra greens for a fun handheld twist. The versatility of this baked eggs florentine recipe lets you explore plenty of delightful presentations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers from your baked eggs florentine can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors intensify overnight, making for another delicious meal the next day.

Freezing

While baking eggs fresh always tastes best, you can freeze the spinach and cheese base (without the eggs) in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. When ready to use, thaw overnight, add fresh eggs, and bake as directed.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, about 10 to 12 minutes, to preserve the delicate texture of the eggs and avoid overcooking. Microwaving can make the eggs rubbery, so it’s best to use the oven when possible.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen spinach works well, just make sure to thaw it thoroughly and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible to avoid a watery dish.

What cheese works best in Baked Eggs Florentine Recipe?

Parmesan and mozzarella or Gruyère are ideal because they melt beautifully and add a rich, savory flavor. You could experiment with other cheeses like feta or cheddar for a unique twist.

How do I know when the eggs are perfectly baked?

The yolks should look set but still slightly jiggly for a creamy center. If you prefer them fully cooked, bake a few minutes longer until firm. Timing is key, so keep a close watch during baking.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the spinach and cheese base in advance and refrigerate it, then add fresh eggs and bake right before serving for a fuss-free brunch.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely. The spinach mixture can be made in bulk and refrigerated or frozen, making it easy to bake fresh batches of eggs as needed. It’s a nutritious and quick meal option.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Eggs Florentine Recipe is a brilliant way to elevate your breakfast or brunch routine with minimal effort but maximum flavor. It’s cozy, creamy, and full of fresh, vibrant ingredients that come together beautifully. Trust me, once you try it, this dish will become one of your new favorites to impress your family or guests with warm, homey goodness.