Baked Eggs Florentine is a classic brunch dish that combines the richness of eggs with the earthy flavor of spinach, all baked together in a creamy sauce. This dish hails from French cuisine, where “Florentine” refers to dishes made with spinach. It’s a perfect choice for a weekend breakfast or a light dinner, as it’s both simple to prepare and elegant enough to serve to guests. The combination of wilted spinach, a hint of garlic, and the delicate cream sauce creates a comforting and satisfying base for perfectly baked eggs with runny yolks. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal that’s indulgent yet wholesome.
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 10 oz fresh spinach (about 2 bunches)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing)
- Toast or crusty bread, for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease four small ramekins or an oven-safe baking dish with olive oil.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
- Evenly divide the cooked spinach among the ramekins or spread it out in the baking dish.
- Carefully crack one egg into each ramekin, or space the eggs evenly across the spinach if using a single dish.
- Drizzle the heavy cream over the eggs and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Add another pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the ramekins or baking dish on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain runny (bake longer if you prefer firmer yolks).
- Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a minute or two. Serve the baked eggs Florentine hot, with slices of toasted bread or crusty baguette on the side.
Enjoy this comforting, nutritious, and flavorful dish for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner!
