Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole

Name: Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 8 large eggs; 240 ml milk; 0.25 tsp salt; 0.125 tsp black pepper; 2 large everything bagels (cut into 1-inch cubes); 227 g cream cheese (cut into cubes); 113 g cheddar cheese (shredded); 113 g cooked bacon (crumbled); 56 g chives (chopped)

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You know those mornings? The ones where the alarm feels like a personal attack, and the idea of wrestling with a complicated breakfast seems utterly impossible? Yeah, I’ve had plenty of those. Life gets hectic, and sometimes, the best intentions for a wholesome breakfast get pushed aside for a granola bar you grab on the way out the door. But I’ve discovered something truly special, a recipe that’s become my secret weapon for conquering those chaotic mornings: the Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole. It’s not just a breakfast dish; it’s a warm hug in a pan, bursting with all those irresistible flavors you love from your favorite everything bagel, but in a comforting, baked form. Think of it as the ultimate lazy Sunday brunch turned weekday miracle. This isn’t just another casserole; it’s the kind of food that makes everyone gather around the table, no matter how rushed they might be. It’s surprisingly simple to pull together, and the aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is just… pure happiness. It’s like a little slice of heaven, a far cry from the usual eggs and toast, and I can’t wait to share it with you.

What is Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole?

So, what exactly *is* this magical creation? At its heart, the Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole is a savory baked dish designed to capture the essence of that beloved bagel topping we all adore. Imagine all the delightful crunch and flavor of everything bagel seasoning – poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and a hint of salt – infused into a tender, fluffy egg and bread base, often studded with delicious breakfast meats and cheese. It’s essentially a flavor-packed strata or savory bread pudding, but with a distinct everything bagel twist that makes it utterly unique. The name itself is a direct nod to the popular seasoning blend, and this casserole delivers on that promise with every single bite. It’s designed to be made ahead, which is a lifesaver, meaning you can have a truly gourmet breakfast ready to go with minimal fuss when morning finally arrives. It’s the comfort food you didn’t know you needed, a clever way to elevate your breakfast game without adding extra stress.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Honestly, there are so many reasons why this Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole has become a staple in my recipe rotation, and I’m confident it will become one of yours too. First off, the flavor profile is just out of this world. You get that savory, slightly pungent punch from the garlic and onion, the delightful little pops from the sesame and poppy seeds, all balanced by the creamy eggs and rich cheese. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that’s incredibly satisfying. And simplicity? Oh, it’s a dream! You can prepare most of it the night before, which means all you have to do in the morning is pop it in the oven. For those busy weekdays or relaxed weekend mornings when you’d rather sip coffee than slave away, this is an absolute lifesaver. It’s also surprisingly cost-effective. Using staple pantry ingredients and common breakfast items, you can create a truly impressive meal without breaking the bank. What I love most, though, is its versatility. While it’s designed to mimic that everything bagel flavor, you can easily customize it. Add in some sautéed spinach for extra greens, swap out the cheese for your favorite sharp cheddar, or even add a little kick with some diced jalapeños. It’s forgiving and adaptable, which is exactly what we busy home cooks need. It’s leagues beyond your average breakfast bake, offering a sophisticated yet comforting flavor that everyone, from picky eaters to seasoned foodies, will devour. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’ve really accomplished something before your day has even properly begun.

How do I make a bagel breakfast casserole?

Quick Overview

This recipe is all about building layers of flavor and texture. You’ll start by prepping your bread and sautéing any meats. Then, you’ll whisk together a rich egg mixture, combine everything in a baking dish, and let it rest (ideally overnight) to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. The next morning, it bakes up into a golden, bubbly masterpiece, infused with all the wonderful components of an Everything Bagel. It’s a straightforward process that guarantees a delicious, satisfying meal with minimal morning-of effort.

Ingredients

For the Main Batter:
* 10 cups cubed day-old bread (about 1.5 loaves of challah, brioche, or French bread; cutting it into 1-inch cubes and letting it sit out for a few hours or overnight is ideal for soaking up the egg mixture)
* 8 large eggs
* 2 cups whole milk (you can also use half-and-half for an even richer casserole, or even a plant-based milk like almond milk – I’ve tried it, and it makes it surprisingly creamy!)
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a lovely salty depth)
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
* 1 tablespoon Everything Bagel Seasoning (plus more for sprinkling on top)
* Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or parsley for a hint of freshness within the batter

For the Filling:
* 1 pound breakfast sausage or bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled (or vegetarian sausage crumbles)
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack (for that classic, melty goodness)
* Optional additions: 1/2 cup sautéed diced onions, 1/2 cup sautéed bell peppers, or 1 cup wilted spinach (make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from spinach!)

For the Topping (Optional but highly recommended!):
* 2 tablespoons Everything Bagel Seasoning
* Melted butter or olive oil for brushing (optional, to help seasoning stick)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

First things first, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish. I like to lightly grease mine with butter or cooking spray, just to ensure nothing sticks and it makes for easier cleanup. Then, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gives the oven plenty of time to get nice and hot while you’re assembling the casserole.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss your cubed bread with the cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage or bacon. If you’re adding any pre-cooked veggies like sautéed onions, peppers, or squeezed-dry spinach, now’s the time to gently mix them in with the bread and meat. Make sure everything is distributed as evenly as possible. The key here is to have the bread cubes coated with the meat and any other mix-ins. Don’t worry if it looks a bit crowded; the bread will shrink down as it bakes.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the 8 large eggs until they’re well combined and a little frothy. Pour in the 2 cups of milk (or your chosen alternative), add the 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and the 1 tablespoon of Everything Bagel Seasoning. If you’re using fresh chives or parsley, stir them in here too. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and homogenous. It should look like a rich, creamy custard.

Step 4: Combine

Now comes the magic. Pour the wet egg mixture evenly over the bread and meat mixture in the baking dish. Gently press down on the bread cubes with a spatula or your hands to ensure they’re all getting submerged in the liquid. This is crucial for a moist and tender casserole. Let it sit for at least 15-20 minutes, or ideally, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or even overnight. This allows the bread to soak up all that delicious eggy goodness. If you’re making it ahead, don’t add the cheese filling yet; just let the bread soak in the custard.

Step 5: Prepare Filling

If you didn’t add any extra veggies to the bread mix in Step 2, and you’re using them now (like fresh sautéed onions or peppers, or wilted spinach), prepare them. Sauté your onions and peppers until tender, and if using spinach, wilt it and *very thoroughly* squeeze out all excess moisture. This is important to prevent a soggy casserole. If you cooked bacon, make sure it’s crumbled finely. If you’re going the vegetarian route, cook your sausage crumbles according to package directions.

Step 6: Layer & Swirl

Once the casserole has soaked (or if you’re assembling it right before baking), sprinkle the 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend) evenly over the top of the bread mixture. If you prepared any additional filling ingredients like sautéed onions or spinach, you can sprinkle those over the cheese layer as well. Then, sprinkle an additional 2 tablespoons of Everything Bagel Seasoning over the cheese. For an extra golden touch and to help the seeds adhere, you can very lightly brush the top with melted butter or olive oil before adding the seasoning, but this is totally optional.

Step 7: Bake

Pop the prepared baking dish into your preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed up, golden brown around the edges, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the irresistible aroma of everything bagels should be filling your kitchen! If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

Step 8: Cool & Glaze

Once it’s baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven. Let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This is *super* important; it allows the casserole to set up properly, making it much easier to cut neat slices and preventing it from falling apart. There’s no glaze on this particular recipe, but the “glaze” is the beautiful, cheesy, everything-seasoned topping that develops during baking!

Step 9: Slice & Serve

After it has had its rest, slice the Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole into generous squares. Serve it warm, straight from the dish. It’s hearty enough on its own, but I often love it with a dollop of sour cream or a side of fresh fruit for a bright contrast. Enjoy the incredible flavors and textures!

What to Serve It With

This Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole is practically a meal in itself, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate it from a great breakfast to an unforgettable experience. For a classic hearty breakfast, I love to serve it alongside some crispy hash browns or home fries. A simple side of fresh fruit, like sliced oranges or a bowl of mixed berries, provides a lovely refreshing counterpoint to the rich, savory casserole. If you’re serving this for brunch, consider adding some a vibrant green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness. Smoked salmon and capers are also fantastic accompaniments that play beautifully with the everything bagel theme. For a more dessert-like experience, which is surprisingly delicious with this casserole, I’ve found that a drizzle of honey or maple syrup can be absolutely divine, especially if you like that sweet and savory combination. It sounds a little unconventional, but trust me on this one! And of course, no breakfast or brunch is complete without beverages. A strong cup of coffee is a must, or perhaps some mimosas or Bloody Marys for a celebratory occasion. For a more casual, cozy snack, I often just enjoy a warm slice on its own with a glass of milk or a soothing cup of herbal tea. My kids, bless their hearts, are perfectly happy with a warm slice for an after-school snack, maybe with a little extra cheese melted on top.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole

After making this casserole more times than I can count (seriously, it’s one of my go-tos!), I’ve picked up a few tricks that really help ensure it turns out perfectly every single time. When it comes to the bread, using day-old bread is non-negotiable. Fresh bread just won’t soak up the egg mixture properly, leading to a gummy texture. Make sure your bread cubes are about 1-inch in size; too small and they’ll disintegrate, too large and they might not cook through. For the egg mixture, really whisk it well to incorporate air; this helps create a lighter, fluffier casserole. And please, please, please don’t skip the soaking time! Whether it’s a quick 20 minutes or an overnight affair, allowing the bread to absorb the liquid is the secret to a moist, tender casserole. If you refrigerate it overnight, you might notice the bread has soaked up *all* the liquid, which is fine – just give it another quick whisk and pour. When it comes to the fillings, if you’re adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, cook them thoroughly and squeeze out any excess moisture. Nobody wants a watery casserole! For a more evenly distributed everything bagel flavor, I sometimes mix a little of the seasoning into the wet ingredients and then sprinkle more generously on top. If you find your cheese topping browning too quickly before the inside is cooked, don’t hesitate to loosely tent the casserole with foil. This diffuses the heat and allows the interior to cook without burning the top. And the resting period after baking is just as crucial as the baking itself. It lets everything set, preventing a messy serving situation. I’ve learned this the hard way on more than one occasion! If you’re feeling adventurous with ingredient swaps, don’t be afraid to try different cheeses like Gruyere or sharp white cheddar. For a heartier meal, adding some diced ham or even some cooked shredded chicken can be delicious. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly if you’re adding raw meats that need to cook through.

Storing and Reheating Tips

This Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole is incredibly forgiving when it comes to storage, which is another reason I love it so much. If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house, but it happens!), you can store them at room temperature for no more than 2 hours. After that, it’s best to refrigerate it. For refrigerator storage, make sure the casserole is completely cooled. Transfer it to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. It should keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. I’ve found that the flavor often melds even more overnight, making those leftovers taste amazing. If you want to freeze portions for even longer, let the casserole cool completely, then cut it into individual servings. Wrap each serving tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When it comes to reheating, there are a few options. For individual servings, you can simply microwave them for about 60-90 seconds, or until heated through. For a larger portion or to bring it back to its former glory, reheat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven. Place the desired portion in an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with foil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, add an additional 10-15 minutes to the oven baking time, or thaw overnight in the refrigerator first. The key is to heat it gently to avoid drying it out. I haven’t found a need for a separate glaze after baking, as the flavors are already so robust, but if you notice it seems a little dry after reheating, a tiny drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of sour cream can work wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make this gluten-free, you can substitute the bread with your favorite gluten-free bread. Look for a hearty, dense loaf that holds up well when cubed and soaked. You might need to adjust the soaking time slightly, as gluten-free bread can sometimes absorb liquid differently. Some readers have had great success using gluten-free sandwich bread or even large gluten-free dinner rolls. Just ensure the bread is at least a day old for best results. The gluten-free bread may not get quite as crispy on the edges, but the flavor will still be incredible.

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

There is no zucchini in this particular Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole recipe! However, if you were thinking of adding zucchini to a similar breakfast casserole, it’s generally not necessary to peel it. The peel adds nutrients and color. You would want to shred it and then squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to avoid a watery casserole.

Can I make this as muffins instead?

You certainly can! To make these as muffins, prepare the batter and filling as directed. Grease a standard muffin tin very well, or use silicone liners for easier removal. Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds to three-quarters full. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them, as muffin-sized portions bake much faster than a large casserole.

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

This casserole is designed to be savory, not sweet. However, if you prefer a touch of sweetness, you can add a tablespoon or two of sugar or maple syrup to the wet ingredient mixture. Alternatively, you can serve it with a drizzle of maple syrup on the side, which allows each person to customize their sweetness level. If you are using sweet bread like challah or brioche, that will already contribute a subtle sweetness.

What can I use instead of the glaze?

This recipe doesn’t call for a traditional “glaze” in the way a sweet bread might. The “glaze” effect comes from the melted cheese and the everything bagel seasoning on top, which bakes up beautifully. If you want an alternative topping, you could try a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese, some crispy fried onions, or even a dollop of cream cheese swirled in before baking for extra creaminess.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole a try. It’s become such a beloved recipe in my home because it’s the perfect blend of comfort, flavor, and practicality. It delivers all those wonderful, craveable tastes of an everything bagel in a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any morning, whether you have tons of time or just a few minutes to spare. It’s the kind of meal that brings a little bit of joy and a lot of deliciousness to your day, and that’s something I can always get behind. If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love my Savory Sausage and Cheese Breakfast Bake or my Easy Overnight French Toast Casserole, which offer similar make-ahead convenience and crowd-pleasing flavors. I can’t wait to hear what you think! Please leave a comment below with your thoughts, any variations you tried, or your own family’s reactions. Happy baking, and may your mornings be a little bit easier and a lot more delicious!

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