Baked Eggs Florentine Recipe
Baked Eggs Florentine is a comforting and elegant dish featuring sautéed spinach in a creamy base, topped with whole eggs and a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, all baked to perfection. This recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy a nutritious breakfast or brunch with rich flavors and a beautiful presentation.
- Author: Sophie
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Eggs and Dairy
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 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 to remove excess moisture)
Seasonings and Garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish or four individual ramekins with butter or olive oil to ensure the baked eggs don’t stick.
- Sauté the Spinach Mixture: Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the fresh or thawed spinach and cook it down until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and if using, ground nutmeg. Transfer this flavorful spinach mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish or ramekins.
- Prepare the Creamy Base: Drizzle the heavy cream or half-and-half evenly over the bed of sautéed spinach. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top to add a rich, savory layer.
- Add the Eggs: Using the back of a spoon, create four small wells in the spinach and cream mixture. Carefully crack one egg into each well, taking care to keep the yolk intact. Lightly season the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper for enhanced flavor.
- Top with Cheese: Scatter the shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese over the top, avoiding covering the egg yolks so they remain visible and appealing.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes if you prefer slightly runny yolks or 18-20 minutes for fully set yolks, ensuring the eggs cook to your desired consistency and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach for brighter flavor and texture; frozen spinach can be a convenient substitute if thawed and well-drained.
- For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream.
- Adjust baking time depending on your yolk preference; monitor closely to avoid overcooking.
- Gruyère cheese offers a nuttier flavor, but mozzarella provides a milder, creamier topping.
- Optional ground nutmeg adds warmth and depth but can be omitted if preferred.
Keywords: Baked Eggs Florentine, spinach and eggs, creamy spinach eggs, brunch recipe, baked eggs with cheese