
Baked Eggs Napoleon is a dish that brings a bakery-worthy brunch right to your own kitchen with just a handful of everyday ingredients. Puff pastry gets golden and crisp in the oven while a creamy spinach-Parmesan filling and perfectly baked eggs turn this into a showstopper everyone remembers. Great for impressing guests or just treating yourself to something a bit fancy on the weekend.
I made this for a brunch with friends and was surprised at how quickly everyone asked for seconds. Now it is my go-to brunch recipe whenever I want a dish that looks and tastes special but does not keep me in the kitchen all morning.
What You'll Need
- Frozen puff pastry sheets: give you that bakery-style base and are worth keeping on hand
- Eggs: are the star here so pick fresh and large ones for the best results
- Everything bagel seasoning: adds crunch and flavor to the pastry edges if you have it
- Olive oil: gently sautés the aromatics without overpowering the delicate spinach
- Shallot and garlic: bring sweetness and depth once cooked down
- Fresh spinach: adds color and nutrition look for bright green leaves without wilting
- Cream cheese: is the secret to a luxuriously creamy filling
- Heavy cream and Parmesan cheese: help everything meld together
- Nutmeg: gives that classic warmth that pairs so well with spinach and eggs
- Salt and black pepper: round out the savory notes season at each stage for balance
- Fresh chives: for a pop of freshness and color at the end select vibrant and crisp stalks
How to Make It Happen
- Thaw and Prep the Pastry:
- Let the puff pastry sit out until it is pliable but still chilled to avoid sticking and ensure maximum puff
- Shape and Score:
- Gently unfold and cut the pastry sheets ensuring even squares then lightly score the inside to set up those bakery-style edges
- Egg Wash and Season:
- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a deep golden shine and add seasoning if using this small step boosts flavor and looks
- Bake and Create Wells:
- Bake until deeply golden and the pastry has puffed then gently depress the centers creating a sturdy well for the creamy filling
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Warm olive oil over medium heat and cook the shallots until soft and sweet add garlic just until fragrant for the best base
- Wilt the Spinach:
- Add spinach in batches letting each addition shrink down then press out extra liquid this avoids a soggy filling
- Mix the Creamy Base:
- Combine spinach with cream cheese heavy cream Parmesan nutmeg salt and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy
- Fill the Pastry Shells:
- Divide the creamy spinach mixture among the pastry wells smoothing it, so there’s room for the eggs
- Add the Eggs:
- Gently crack an egg into each pastry center sprinkle with a little salt and pepper to boost flavor
- Bake to Finish:
- Return to the oven and cook until whites are just set but yolks remain runny for that perfect brunch texture
- Garnish and Serve:
- Let cool slightly garnish with fresh chives and serve right away for maximum enjoyment

This dish always brings me back to lazy Sunday mornings when my family would gather together in the kitchen just waiting for the pastry aroma to fill the house. My favorite part is always the little surprise of nutmeg in the creamy spinach which makes every bite unexpectedly comforting.
Keeping It Fresh
If you want to keep leftovers as delicious as the first time, store the pastry and filling separately in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the oven for a crisp texture. The eggs are best baked fresh, so crack a new one just before serving. Use just-washed spinach free from grit for the brightest filling.
Smart Swaps and Substitutions
Swap out spinach for baby kale or swiss chard for a different flavor and texture. Try ricotta or goat cheese instead of cream cheese for a twist. Omit the bagel seasoning or use sesame seeds or poppy seeds for something milder. I once used kale when I ran out of spinach and it turned out so hearty and flavorful.
Perfect Pairings
Serve with a simple citrus salad for a refreshing contrast. Crisp breakfast potatoes or roasted asparagus make a great side. For a truly indulgent brunch, a mimosa or iced coffee is the way to go. Baked Eggs Napoleon really shines alongside bright acidic flavors that cut through the richness.

With just a few simple steps and fresh ingredients, you can create bakery-style brunch magic at home. Every bite delivers comforting flavors and crisp, golden pastry to make mornings special.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of puff pastry works best?
Frozen, all-butter puff pastry delivers flaky layers and rich flavor. Thaw fully before using for best results.
- → How do I keep the spinach filling creamy?
Combining cream cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese ensures the spinach filling is smooth and rich.
- → Can I substitute the spinach?
Yes, you can use sautéed kale or Swiss chard as alternatives for a similar texture and taste.
- → How to achieve runny egg yolks?
Bake just until whites are set and yolks are still glossy. Check after 10 minutes to prevent overcooking.
- → What garnishes work well for serving?
Fresh chives or even finely chopped parsley add a burst of color and a mild onion flavor to finish the dish.
- → Is this suitable for advance preparation?
The puff pastry shells and spinach filling can be made ahead, but add the eggs and bake just before serving.