If you’re a fan of elegant breakfasts or brunches that feel like a warm hug, then Baked Eggs Florentine is about to become your new favorite indulgence. This dish combines tender sautéed spinach bathed in a creamy, tangy sauce with perfectly baked eggs nestled right on top, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Each bite offers a rich, velvety experience thanks to the Parmesan cheese and a subtle hint of lemon and nutmeg that elevates the spinach without overpowering it. Whether you’re brunching with friends or craving a cozy weekend treat, this Baked Eggs Florentine will make you grateful for the simple magic of eggs and greens.

Baked Eggs Florentine Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients are the heart and soul of this Baked Eggs Florentine, each playing a pivotal role in flavor, texture, and color. Everything works together to create a dish that’s creamy, fresh, and deeply satisfying.

1 pound spinach (fresh or frozen, thawed and squeezed): Provides the vibrant green base and earthy flavor that makes this dish so fresh and healthy.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic and spinach perfectly without overpowering the other flavors.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a subtle aromatic depth that enhances the spinach without being too sharp.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, velvety sauce that binds the spinach and cheese together beautifully.
1 tablespoon lemon zest: Adds a crisp brightness that balances the creamy sauce with fresh citrus notes.
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brings a tangy lift that wakes up the flavors and cuts through the richness.
⅛ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg: The secret spice that adds warmth and subtle complexity to the dish.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the full flavor of all the ingredients.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping): The salty, nutty cheese rounds out the creaminess and adds a wonderful umami punch.
4 large fresh eggs: The stars of the show, baked just right to have tender whites and luxuriously runny yolks.

How to Make Baked Eggs Florentine

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is just right for gently baking the eggs so their whites set while the yolks remain deliciously soft.

Step 2: Prepare the Spinach

Give your spinach a thorough wash to remove all dirt and grit. If you’re using fresh spinach, make sure to dry it well so the dish doesn’t get watery. Frozen spinach should be completely thawed and squeezed dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Spinach

In a 10 to 12-inch oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant—this releases its sweet, mellow flavor. Gradually add the spinach, stirring until it wilts and reduces in volume. Season with salt and pepper to enhance its natural taste.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat slightly, then pour in the heavy cream along with the lemon zest and lemon juice. Sprinkle in the freshly grated nutmeg. Let this simmer gently until the sauce thickens just a bit, which should take a few minutes. This silky sauce will soak into the spinach and tie everything together beautifully.

Step 5: Add the Parmesan Cheese

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, blending richness and savory depth into the dish. Give it a taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed, as Parmesan already brings saltiness.

Step 6: Add the Eggs and Bake

Create four small wells in the spinach mixture using the back of a spoon, then carefully crack one egg into each well. Season the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sprinkle a little more Parmesan cheese over the spinach, taking care not to cover the yolks. Pop the skillet into the oven and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain slightly runny for that perfect indulgence.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the dish rest for a few minutes. This allows the eggs to settle and flavors to meld, making every bite just as satisfying as the first.

How to Serve Baked Eggs Florentine

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and an extra layer of freshness. A scatter of extra Parmesan or a dusting of cracked black pepper on top creates a beautiful, appetizing finish.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with crispy toasted bread or warm English muffins, perfect for scooping up that decadent spinach and runny yolk. For a heartier brunch, consider serving with roasted potatoes or a light mixed green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, serve individual portions in small oven-proof ramekins to make every guest feel special. You can also top with a drizzle of hollandaise sauce or smoked salmon for a luxurious twist that elevates this classic even further.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Baked Eggs Florentine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The spinach mixture keeps well, but the eggs might lose their perfect texture, so consider reheating gently.

Freezing

While the spinach and sauce freeze beautifully, it’s best to keep the eggs separate if you plan to freeze this dish. Freeze the spinach mixture in portions and add fresh eggs when ready to bake for the best texture and taste.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat or in a microwave at a low setting to avoid overcooking the eggs. If you froze the spinach separately, thaw and reheat it first, then crack fresh eggs on top and bake briefly until just cooked.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh for Baked Eggs Florentine?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture to prevent the dish from being watery. The flavor will still be excellent, and using frozen spinach saves time.

How do I know when the eggs are perfectly baked?

You want the egg whites fully set so they’re not runny but the yolks should still be soft and slightly runny inside—this usually takes about 12 to 15 minutes at 375°F. Keep a close eye the first time you try it to gauge your oven’s timing.

Can I make Baked Eggs Florentine vegan or dairy-free?

Yes! You can swap heavy cream for a rich coconut or cashew cream and use vegan butter with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. The texture and flavor will be different but still delicious and comforting.

Is this dish suitable for lunch or dinner?

Definitely. While Baked Eggs Florentine shines as a brunch or breakfast treat, it’s elegant and filling enough for a light lunch or dinner, especially when paired with a crisp salad and crusty bread.

Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?

Feel free to get creative! Sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or even a little crispy bacon can add exciting layers of flavor. Just keep the balance so the spinach and eggs remain the stars.

Final Thoughts

Making Baked Eggs Florentine at home is one of those joyful cooking experiences where you transform simple, fresh ingredients into a stunning, cozy dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. It’s perfect for treating yourself or impressing guests, and once you master this recipe, it might just become a staple in your brunch rotation. Go ahead, dive into those lush greens, silky cream, and soft baked eggs — your taste buds will thank you!