Baked Eggs Florentine has become my go-to for those mornings when I want something a little special without a lot of fuss. I remember the first time I tried making a spinach and egg bake Florentine style; I was intimidated, but it turned out to be surprisingly simple and incredibly delicious. The aroma of garlic and spinach filling my kitchen always makes me feel so cozy. This easy Baked Eggs Florentine is perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch or even a quick, healthy weeknight dinner. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Baked Eggs Florentine
- An incredibly rich and satisfying taste that feels gourmet.
- Super quick prep time – ready in just 10 minutes!
- A healthy option packed with protein and fresh spinach.
- Budget-friendly ingredients make this a smart choice for any meal.
- This Eggs Florentine bake is a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
- It’s versatile enough for a delightful Baked Eggs Florentine breakfast or a light dinner.
- The combination of creamy spinach and tender eggs is pure comfort.
- This simple Eggs Florentine bake elevates any occasion.
Ingredients for Your Baked Eggs Florentine Recipe
Gathering your Baked Eggs Florentine ingredients is the simple first step to this elegant dish. You’ll need 4 large eggs, ideally at room temperature for even baking. For the creamy spinach base, grab 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter to sauté the aromatics. We’ve got 1 small onion, finely chopped, and 2 cloves garlic, minced for that classic Florentine flavor. You’ll also need 8 oz fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped (or thawed frozen, squeezed dry – it adds wonderful richness!). Seasonings are key: salt and pepper, to taste, and a pinch of 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg if you like that subtle warmth. To make it truly decadent, we use 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for creaminess and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for that nutty, salty bite.
How to Make Baked Eggs Florentine
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Decide if you’re making one large dish or individual portions. Lightly grease a medium baking dish or four individual Florentine eggs baked in ramekins. This prevents sticking and makes serving a breeze.
- Step 2: Heat the 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the 1 small onion, finely chopped, and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, toss in the 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for just one minute more until fragrant – be careful not to burn it! Add the 8 oz fresh spinach and cook until it’s completely wilted down. Season generously with salt and pepper, to taste, and a pinch of 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg if you’re using it. This fragrant mixture is the heart of your dish. Spread this delicious spinach mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish or your Florentine eggs baked in ramekins.
- Step 3: Pour the 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half evenly over the spinach. This adds a wonderful richness. Sprinkle the 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese over the cream.
- Step 4: Now for the eggs! Create four shallow wells in the spinach mixture using the back of a spoon. Gently crack one large egg into each well, making sure you keep the yolks intact. Season the eggs lightly with a little more salt and pepper.
- Step 5: Top everything off with the 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese. Try to avoid getting too much cheese directly on the egg yolks, as it can cook them faster.
- Step 6: Carefully place the dish or ramekins into the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes if you like your yolks nice and runny, or closer to 18-20 minutes if you prefer them more set. Keep an eye on them!
- Step 7: Once baked to perfection, remove from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your beautiful Baked Eggs Florentine immediately alongside some crusty bread or toast for dipping into that glorious runny yolk!
Pro Tips for the Best Eggs Florentine Bake
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make sure my Baked Eggs Florentine turns out perfectly every time. These simple tips will elevate your dish from good to absolutely amazing!
- Don’t overcook the spinach; you want it tender but not mushy.
- Use fresh, good-quality eggs – they’re the star of the show!
- Allowing the eggs to come to room temperature before baking helps them cook more evenly.
- For a richer flavor, try adding a dollop of ricotta cheese along with the cream.
What’s the secret to perfect Baked Eggs Florentine?
The key to the best Baked Eggs Florentine is the creamy, garlicky spinach base and not overcooking the eggs. Sautéing the garlic and onion until fragrant, then wilting the spinach just right, creates a flavorful foundation. Gently cracking the eggs into wells and baking until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny is pure magic. For more on cooking techniques, you can check out our about me page.
Can I make Eggs Florentine casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the spinach mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just before serving, make the wells, add the eggs, cream, and cheese, and bake as directed. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the mixture is cold.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Florentine baked eggs with spinach?
A common pitfall is overcooking the eggs, leaving you with hard yolks. Watch them closely! Another mistake is not seasoning the spinach enough; make sure to salt and pepper it well as it cooks. Also, ensure your oven is properly preheated for consistent baking. For more cooking tips, visit our contact us page.
Best Ways to Serve Your Florentine Baked Eggs
This delightful Baked Eggs Florentine is so versatile, it works for any meal. For a classic Baked Eggs Florentine breakfast or brunch, I love serving it with crusty toasted sourdough bread or a warm baguette. The bread is perfect for soaking up any extra creamy spinach sauce and that glorious runny yolk. Another fantastic pairing is a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette – it cuts through the richness beautifully. If you’re enjoying this as a lighter dinner, consider serving it alongside roasted asparagus or grilled chicken for a more complete meal. Learn more about our privacy policy.
Nutrition Facts for Baked Eggs Florentine
Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delicious Baked Eggs Florentine:
- Calories: 260
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: N/A
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For more details on our affiliate relationships, see our affiliate disclaimer.
How to Store and Reheat Eggs Florentine Bake
I love that you can prepare this dish ahead of time, making it perfect for busy mornings or when you’re planning Florentine baked eggs for dinner. Once baked, let your Eggs Florentine bake cool completely before storing. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. You can keep it refrigerated for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Gently warm individual portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave on a lower power setting, being careful not to overcook the eggs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Eggs Florentine
What are Baked Eggs Florentine?
Baked Eggs Florentine are a delightful dish where eggs are gently baked on a bed of sautéed spinach, often with onions and garlic, and usually finished with cream and cheese. It’s a classic breakfast or brunch option that feels both comforting and elegant. Think of it as a deconstructed Eggs Benedict without the hollandaise, focusing on the creamy spinach and perfectly cooked eggs. For more information on classic dishes, check out Allrecipes.
Can I use frozen spinach for Baked Eggs Florentine?
Absolutely! Using frozen spinach is a great shortcut. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible before sautéing it with the onions and garlic. This step is crucial to prevent a watery base for your Florentine baked eggs with spinach.
How do I get the perfect runny yolk in my Florentine eggs baked in ramekins?
The trick to perfect runny yolks is timing and temperature. For Florentine eggs baked in ramekins, bake at 375°F (190°C) and keep a close eye on them. Usually, 12-15 minutes is sufficient for the egg whites to set while the yolks remain gloriously liquid. If you prefer firmer yolks, extend the baking time by a few minutes.
What are some other baked eggs Florentine variations?
There are so many delicious Baked Eggs Florentine variations you can try! You could add mushrooms to the spinach base, top with crumbled bacon or prosciutto, or even swap the Parmesan for a sharp cheddar. For a richer dish, a spoonful of ricotta cheese alongside the cream is wonderful. Some people even add a touch of nutmeg to the cream for an extra layer of flavor. You can find more about terms and conditions on our terms and conditions page.
Variations of Baked Eggs Florentine You Can Try
Feeling adventurous? There are so many fun Baked Eggs Florentine variations to explore beyond the classic recipe! I love switching things up based on what I have on hand or what I’m craving. For a richer, creamier texture, try adding a dollop of ricotta cheese to the spinach mixture before baking. If you’re looking for extra flavor, consider a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. For a heartier meal, you can easily incorporate sautéed mushrooms or crumbled cooked bacon into the spinach base.
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Baked Eggs Florentine: Speedy, Cozy 4-Egg Treat
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Baked Eggs Florentine is a comforting and elegant dish featuring softly baked eggs nestled in creamy, garlicky spinach, topped with melted cheese. It’s perfect for brunch, breakfast, or a light dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped (or thawed frozen spinach, squeezed dry)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish or four individual ramekins.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and cook for one minute more. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Spread the spinach mixture into the baking dish or ramekins.
- Pour heavy cream over the spinach and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Create four shallow wells in the spinach mixture and crack one egg into each well, keeping the yolks intact. Season the eggs lightly with salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle mozzarella or Gruyère cheese over the top, avoiding the egg yolks.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes for runny yolks, or 18-20 minutes for set yolks.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives and serve immediately with crusty bread or toast.
Notes
- Fresh spinach provides the best flavor, but frozen spinach is a convenient alternative.
- For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spinach mixture.
- You can prepare the spinach mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. Add cream, eggs, and cheese before baking.
- Consider using ricotta cheese for extra creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: N/A