Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Baked Eggs Napoleon is a delightful combination of savory, creamy, and crispy textures. The puff pastry provides a crispy, buttery base, while the ricotta and mozzarella create a rich, creamy filling. The sautéed spinach and tomatoes add freshness and moisture, making every bite a deliciously balanced experience. The baked eggs on top create a beautiful, runny yolk that perfectly complements the dish. This recipe is not only delicious but also visually impressive, making it perfect for any special occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sautéed spinach (or any green of your choice)
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (like basil or chives), for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.
Step 2: Prepare Baking Dish
Grease a baking dish or individual ramekins with olive oil to prevent sticking. You can also line the dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 3: Roll Out Pastry
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry. Cut it into squares or circles to fit your baking dish. If you’re using individual ramekins, cut smaller rounds to fit each one.
Step 4: Layer Pastry
Place a layer of puff pastry at the bottom of your baking dish, gently pressing it down to fit the shape of the dish.
Step 5: Add Ricotta
Spread a layer of ricotta cheese over the pastry, making sure it covers the surface evenly.
Step 6: Sauté Spinach
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the spinach until it wilts down. Season with salt and pepper, then spread the sautéed spinach over the ricotta layer.
Step 7: Add Tomatoes
Sprinkle diced tomatoes over the spinach layer, allowing their juices to add moisture and flavor to the dish.
Step 8: Layer Cheese
Top the tomatoes with a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese, spreading it evenly over the tomatoes.
Step 9: Add Another Pastry Layer
Place another layer of puff pastry over the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layering process, alternating between ricotta, spinach, tomatoes, mozzarella, and puff pastry, until the dish is filled (usually 3-4 layers works well).
Step 10: Crack Eggs
Carefully crack the eggs on top of the final pastry layer. Space them evenly, ensuring the eggs fit comfortably within the dish. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 11: Sprinkle Parmesan
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the entire dish, which will add a crispy, golden crust as it bakes.
Step 12: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set to your desired doneness and the pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
Step 13: Cool Slightly
Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the layers settle and makes it easier to slice.
Step 14: Garnish
Sprinkle with fresh herbs, such as basil or chives, for a burst of color and additional flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 (depending on portion size)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Cheese Variations: Swap the mozzarella for cheddar, Gruyère, or feta cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture or sprinkle on top for a spicy version of the dish.
- Meat Lovers: Add cooked sausage, bacon, or ham for a meatier version of the dish.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.
FAQs
1. Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?
Yes, you can use phyllo dough, but it will create a crispier texture. Be sure to layer it well and brush with olive oil between the layers.
2. Can I make this dish in individual servings?
Absolutely! You can use ramekins or muffin tins to create individual servings, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
3. How do I know when the eggs are fully cooked?
The eggs are done when the whites are fully set, and the yolks are cooked to your preference. If you like runny yolks, aim for 25 minutes of baking time. For firmer yolks, bake closer to 30 minutes.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the layers ahead of time and refrigerate the dish before baking. When ready to serve, bake it as directed.
5. Can I substitute ricotta cheese with another cheese?
Yes, you can use cream cheese, mascarpone, or cottage cheese as alternatives to ricotta, depending on your preference.
6. Can I add more greens to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add kale, arugula, or swiss chard instead of spinach for a different flavor and texture.
7. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the prepared but unbaked dish. Once it’s fully assembled, cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
8. What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
You can use Pecorino Romano or a vegan cheese substitute if you prefer.
9. Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the ricotta and mozzarella with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cheese or vegan mozzarella, and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative for the topping.
Conclusion
Baked Eggs Napoleon is the perfect balance of flaky, creamy, and savory. It’s easy to make, customizable, and looks stunning when served. Whether you’re making it for brunch, a special occasion, or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds!
Baked Eggs Napoleon: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe for Every Occasion
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Baked Eggs Napoleon combines flaky puff pastry, creamy ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, and juicy tomatoes, topped with perfectly baked eggs for a delightful and elegant dish, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
4 large eggs
2 cups puff pastry, thawed
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup sautéed spinach (or any green of your choice)
½ cup diced tomatoes
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh herbs (like basil or chives), for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish or individual ramekins with olive oil. You can also line with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into squares or circles to fit your baking dish.
- Place a layer of puff pastry in the baking dish, pressing it gently to fit.
- Spread a layer of ricotta cheese over the pastry.
- Sauté spinach in olive oil until wilted, then season with salt and pepper. Spread the spinach over the ricotta layer.
- Sprinkle diced tomatoes over the spinach.
- Top the tomatoes with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Place another layer of puff pastry on top of the cheese. Repeat layering until the dish is filled, typically 3-4 layers.
- Crack the eggs on top of the final pastry layer, spacing them evenly.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the entire dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the pastry is golden brown.
- Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or chives.
Notes
Use phyllo dough for a crispier texture.
For individual servings, use ramekins or muffin tins, adjusting baking time accordingly.
If you like runny yolks, bake for about 25 minutes; for firmer yolks, bake closer to 30 minutes.
Make ahead: Prepare the layers in advance and refrigerate before baking.
Substitute ricotta with cream cheese, mascarpone, or cottage cheese if desired.
Add other greens like kale, arugula, or swiss chard for variation.
Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked dish for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 185mg
