Eggs Florentine Bake: The Ultimate Comforting Brunch Casserole
🥚 History and Origin of Eggs Florentine Bake
Florence to the Modern Table: Where It All Began
The rich roots of Eggs Florentine Bake trace back to 16th-century Florence, Italy, during the Renaissance. The term “Florentine” in cooking typically refers to dishes that feature spinach—a favorite vegetable of Catherine de Medici, a Florentine noblewoman who married France’s future King Henry II. According to legend, she introduced both her passion for spinach and classic Italian cooking methods to the French court. Chefs began naming dishes with spinach “à la Florentine” in her honor.
The classic Eggs Florentine originally appeared as poached eggs over butter-sautéed spinach, topped with creamy Mornay or Béchamel sauce. Over the centuries, chefs in France, the United Kingdom, and the United States adapted this luxury dish to make it easier and more accessible. Eventually, home cooks transformed it into a one-pan egg bake, perfect for busy mornings and large families.
The Eggs Florentine Bake we enjoy today gained popularity in the mid-20th century, becoming a beloved feature on American brunch menus thanks to its creamy texture and nutritional richness.
Top Countries That Love Florentine-Style Bakes 🇮🇹🇺🇸🇬🇧
Today, the dish has gone global. Here are the top 10 countries that have embraced Eggs Florentine Bake, whether in home kitchens or local cafés:
- 🇺🇸 United States
- 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
- 🇨🇦 Canada
- 🇦🇺 Australia
- 🇮🇹 Italy
- 🇳🇿 New Zealand
- 🇫🇷 France
- 🇩🇪 Germany
- 🇿🇦 South Africa
- 🇮🇪 Ireland
Each region has its own twist—some add feta cheese, others include chili flakes or even a croissant base.
For more hearty breakfast bake inspiration, check out my review of the popular Mexican Lasagna Breakfast Casserole—a flavor-packed dish perfect for brunch or meal prep: Mexican Lasagna Breakfast Casserole 🍳
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7 Reasons This Eggs Florentine Bake Will Be Your New Favorite Brunch Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, cheesy Eggs Florentine Bake with spinach and eggs—perfect for brunch or meal prep. Easy, flavorful, and ready in under 45 minutes.
Ingredients
- 8 large eggs
- 10 oz fresh baby spinach
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat Oven to 375°F. Grease your 9×13 baking dish.
- Sauté Veggies: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add onions, garlic, and spinach. Cook until wilted. Season.
- Layer Base: Spread the cooked spinach mix in the baking dish.
- Crack and Pour: Crack eggs over spinach evenly spaced.
- Add Cheese & Milk: Sprinkle cheese over eggs. Pour milk or cream over the entire dish.
- Bake It: Bake for 20–25 minutes until egg whites are set and yolks slightly runny (or longer if you prefer firmer eggs).
- Serve Hot with toasted sourdough or hashbrowns.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
🍳 Kitchen Equipment & Ingredient Essentials
🧰 Everything You Need to Make Eggs Florentine Bake
Before diving into a creamy, comforting eggs Florentine bake, you’ll want to make sure your kitchen is set up for success. While this one-pan eggs Florentine dish is wonderfully simple, using the right tools enhances your experience and ensures delicious results every time.
Here’s what I recommend having on hand:
- 9×13-inch baking dish: A must-have for evenly cooked Florentine egg casserole servings.
- Large skillet or sauté pan: Perfect for wilting spinach and cooking aromatics for the spinach egg bake Florentine.
- Mixing bowls: Use at least two—one for whisking liquids and one for prepping veggies.
- Whisk: Essential for blending milk, eggs, and seasoning smoothly in your easy Florentine bake.
- Cheese grater: Freshly grated Gruyère melts better and adds bolder flavor.
- Measuring cups & spoons: Consistency matters in a well-balanced baked eggs Florentine.
Chances are, you already own most of these tools. Still upgrading your gear? Don’t miss my comprehensive guide on Essential Tools for the Perfect Casserole Bake 🛠️—it’s loaded with expert tips and recommendations.
🛒 Your Shopping List: Fresh, Flavorful Staples
When it comes to this eggs Florentine breakfast bake, fresh ingredients make all the difference. Each layer contributes to the overall comfort and flavor of this classic baked spinach and eggs dish. Here’s what to add to your grocery list:
Optional: a pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
8 large eggs – the stars of your creamy eggs Florentine bake
10 oz fresh baby spinach – for that bright, nutritious foundation
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 Tbsp olive oil – or substitute with butter for extra richness
1 cup whole milk – or half-and-half for a more decadent texture
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese – or Swiss for a milder, melty twist
Salt and black pepper – to taste
👨🍳 Instructions: Step-by-Step Method
🔪 Prepping and Assembling the Florentine Layers
Crafting a perfect Eggs Florentine bake starts with thoughtful layering and well-balanced ingredients. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it warms up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray—this simple step ensures your baked spinach and eggs release easily without sticking.
In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle in olive oil and sauté chopped onion and garlic for 2 to 3 minutes. Cook until fragrant and translucent—this forms the aromatic base of your creamy eggs Florentine bake. Gradually add fresh baby spinach, stirring gently as it wilts and reduces in volume. This classic spinach egg bake Florentine step gives the dish its signature color, flavor, and nutrition.
Evenly spread the sautéed spinach mixture along the bottom of your baking dish. This forms the savory base of your baked eggs Florentine, wrapping each bite in layers of spinach, eggs, and melted cheese.
🧀 Layering, Baking & Serving Tips
Now for the fun part: gently crack each egg directly over the spinach base, spacing them evenly throughout the dish. This guarantees each portion of your eggs Florentine breakfast bake will include a whole, picture-perfect egg. Then, scatter shredded Gruyère cheese over the top—rich, nutty, and melty, it complements the eggs without overpowering them.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together whole milk or half-and-half with salt, black pepper, and a touch of nutmeg. This creamy mixture ties the one-pan eggs Florentine together, soaking into the spinach while puffing the eggs and cheese into golden perfection. Gently pour it over the layers, letting it seep between the ingredients.
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the eggs are set and the top is golden and bubbly. For gooey yolks, remove it at 20 minutes. For firmer eggs, leave it up to 30 minutes. The result? A luscious, bubbly Florentine egg casserole with a gorgeous golden crust.
Serve it warm with crusty toast, crispy bacon, or golden hashbrowns. Want to elevate the brunch even more? Pair it with my Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs 🥑—the creamy, crispy contrast is perfect!
🕐 Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time + Nutrition Score
⏲️ Recipe Timing Breakdown
When I need a quick and reliable brunch option, the Eggs Florentine Bake always delivers. It’s my top choice for those mornings when I want something easy, comforting, and crowd-pleasing without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
What makes this Eggs Florentine Bake so special is its versatility. Whether you’re prepping it for a Sunday brunch, holiday breakfast, or just want to treat yourself midweek, it never disappoints. I often assemble everything the night before, and all that’s left to do is bake it fresh the next morning.
👉 If you’re looking to expand your brunch menu, try this delicious Amish Breakfast Casserole. It’s another one-pan wonder that pairs beautifully with the Eggs Florentine Bake for a varied buffet.
🍳 Nutrition Score (Per Serving – Approx. 8 Servings)
When enjoying a slice of this warm and savory Eggs Florentine Bake, you’re treating yourself to a nutrient-packed meal that strikes a beautiful balance between indulgence and health. This dish is naturally rich in protein from the eggs and cheese, healthy fats from the cream and butter, and a modest amount of carbohydrates—making it an excellent fit for low-carb, keto, and balanced diet plans alike.
Whether you’re serving it at a weekend brunch, preparing it ahead for busy weekday breakfasts, or sharing it with guests at a holiday table, you can feel good knowing each serving delivers both satisfaction and sustenance.
📋 Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 240 kcal – A satisfying portion without overloading on energy.
- Protein: 14 oz – Supports muscle health, keeps you fuller for longer, and stabilizes energy levels.
- Fat: 18 oz – Helps keep you full while aiding in the absorption of essential fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, and E.
- Carbohydrates: 4 oz – Low enough to keep this dish friendly for keto and low-carb lifestyles.
- Fiber: 1 oz – Small but helpful in supporting digestion.
- Sugar: 2 oz – Naturally occurring from dairy and vegetables, with no added refined sugar.
- Cholesterol: 210 mg – Primarily from eggs; research now shows moderate cholesterol intake is fine for most people.
- Sodium: 330 mg – Provides balanced seasoning to enhance flavor without exceeding healthy daily limits.
🌟 Why This Recipe Fits a Balanced Lifestyle
Eggs deliver premium protein and vital amino acids, spinach supplies iron and powerful antioxidants, and cheese contributes calcium to support strong bones. The low carbohydrate count makes it an ideal breakfast or brunch for those monitoring their sugar or carb intake.
💡 Pro Tip: For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half and reduce the cheese slightly. You’ll still get a luscious, creamy texture while lowering the calorie count—perfect for a leaner breakfast option.
For more healthy breakfast ideas, check out my Low-Carb Breakfast Recipes collection, where you’ll find dozens of creative and nutritious morning meals to keep you energized.
🍽️ Serving & Storage Tips
How to Serve Eggs Florentine Bake
The beauty of Eggs Florentine Bake is in its flexibility—it can be plated simply or dressed up for a special brunch. I love serving it hot, straight from the oven, with a few tasty sides to round out the meal.
Here are my favorite serving suggestions:
- Pair it with toasted sourdough, English muffins, or a buttery croissant.
- Add a drizzle of hollandaise sauce or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
- Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad or mixed greens to balance the richness.
- Include a cup of fresh-brewed coffee or a sparkling mimosa for a celebratory brunch feel.
Looking for more brunch-worthy recipes? Try the creamy and veggie-packed Spinach and Mushroom Quiche for a great companion dish:
Spinach and Mushroom Quiche
Storage & Reheating: Keep It Fresh
This dish stores and reheats beautifully, making it a solid choice for meal prep or next-day leftovers:
- Refrigerate: Let the casserole cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or covered dish for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or microwave single servings until heated through.
- Freezing? Not ideal. Baked eggs don’t freeze well—they can become rubbery when thawed.
If you want meal prep-friendly brunch recipes, check out the hearty Sweet Potato Breakfast Hash, which reheats well too:
Sweet Potato Breakfast Hash
🌀 Recipe Variations
🌶️ Turn Up the Heat: Give Your Florentine a Fiery Twist
If you’re craving some heat to start your day, turn your Eggs Florentine Bake into a bold, spicy delight with:
- Stirring in a sprinkle of red pepper flakes while sautéing the spinach gives the dish a gentle, warming spice.
- Layer in some finely chopped jalapeños or green chilies before adding the eggs to bring a bold, spicy edge to every bite.
- Ask ChatGPT
- A drizzle of sriracha or chipotle sauce just before serving
These simple additions boost flavor without complicating prep. For another spicy baked egg dish, check out my bold brunch favorite:
Easy Baked Omelette 🌶️
🧀 Cheesy, Meaty & Creative Twists
One of the greatest perks of this dish is its amazing versatility. You can make it heartier, cheesier, or even meat-based:
- Cheesy Upgrade: Swap the Gruyère for a melty cheese blend like cheddar, mozzarella, or feta.
- Meat Lover’s Florentine: Stir in cooked crumbled bacon, diced ham, or chicken sausage into the spinach layer.
- Carb-Friendly Base: Add a thin layer of roasted potatoes or a buttery croissant crust underneath the spinach.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is baked egg Florentine?
Baked egg Florentine is a casserole-style version of the classic French-inspired Eggs Florentine dish. Instead of poaching eggs and layering them over spinach with Mornay sauce, this version bakes whole eggs over a sautéed spinach base with cheese and cream or milk. It’s all the flavor of the traditional dish, but in a much simpler and hands-off format—perfect for entertaining or weekly meal prep.
What’s the difference between Eggs Benedict and Eggs Florentine?
The main distinction lies in the toppings:
Eggs Benedict: English muffin + ham + poached egg + hollandaise sauce
Eggs Florentine: English muffin (or base) + sautéed spinach + poached egg + Mornay (or cheese-based sauce)
This bake skips the muffin but keeps the essence of Florentine-style spinach and eggs—deliciously cheesy and protein-packed.
How long should I bake Eggs Florentine for creamy or firm yolks?
Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes for slightly runny yolks. If you prefer firmer yolks, extend the time to 28–30 minutes. Keep an eye on the center of the dish—the eggs should just barely jiggle when fully set.
Can I make Eggs Florentine Bake ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! Eggs Florentine Bake is an excellent make-ahead dish. You can fully assemble it the night before—just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes before placing it in the oven. Then, bake as directed.
✅ Conclusion: A Comforting Classic Reimagined
Eggs Florentine bake is more than just a brunch dish—it’s a warm hug in a casserole dish. Rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying, this baked eggs Florentine recipe brings together perfectly cooked eggs, tender sautéed spinach, and gooey cheese, creating a flavor that feels both indulgent and comforting.
One reason I love this spinach egg bake Florentine is its versatility. You can prep it the night before for a stress-free morning or whip it up fresh in just one pan. Whether you’re looking for a make-ahead dish or an impressive centerpiece, this Florentine egg casserole—also known as an egg Florentine casserole—ticks every box.
🍳 Adaptable, Creamy, and Perfect for Any Morning
This creamy eggs Florentine bake adapts beautifully to your tastes. Add protein like crispy bacon, diced ham, or smoked salmon for an extra kick. Switch up the cheese—think gouda, gruyère, or sharp cheddar—to create a personalized twist on the classic eggs Florentine breakfast bake. You can even add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or top it with breadcrumbs for a crunchier finish.
Even better? It’s all done in one dish. This one-pan eggs Florentine bake makes cleanup easy while delivering big on flavor. Pair it with a side of fruit salad, fresh baguette, or a citrusy mimosa for the perfect brunch spread.
Planning a full brunch menu? Serve your baked spinach and eggs with my hearty Stuffed Pepper Casserole to round out the table with a comforting combo that’s both filling and flavorful.
Make this easy Florentine bake part of your regular rotation, and every morning will feel like a mini celebration.