Irresistible Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Wake up to golden slices packed with smoky bacon, creamy cheese pockets, and fresh herbs.
Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole: Your Ultimate Make-Ahead Brunch Solution
Few things are as satisfying as waking up to a hot, bubbling breakfast casserole, especially when it brilliantly captures the flavors of your favorite everything bagel. This everything bagel breakfast casserole is layered with crispy bacon, sautéed red onions, creamy pockets of cream cheese, and a rich egg custard infused with parmesan and fresh herbs. Perfect for holiday brunches, family gatherings, or leisurely weekends, this casserole can be assembled the night before and baked fresh in the morning for a stress-free yet indulgent meal.
Why Everything Bagel Casserole is a Brunch Game Changer
- Make-ahead convenience: Assemble the night before, bake in the morning.
- Feeds a crowd: Serves up to 8 people—ideal for gatherings.
- Rich, savory flavors: Combines classic breakfast favorites with deli-inspired flair.
- Customizable: Easy to vary with your favorite ingredients or toppings.
Ingredients for Everything Bagel Casserole
This recipe calls for simple ingredients that come together to create complex flavors reminiscent of a classic New York bagel breakfast.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Everything bagels | 6 (unsliced, day-old preferred) | Stale bagels absorb more custard |
| Bacon | 8 strips | Cooked until crisp and crumbled |
| Red onion | 1/2, chopped | Sautéed until soft |
| Cream cheese | 1 block (8 oz.) | Cubed or sliced into pieces |
| Eggs | 9 large | – |
| Half-and-half | 2 1/2 cups | For custard base (can substitute milk/cream mix) |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup, shredded | Adds a nutty, savory kick |
| Fresh parsley | 1/4 cup, chopped | Mix into custard for color and flavor |
| Salt | 1 tsp. kosher | – |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp. | – |
| Cayenne pepper (optional) | 1/4 tsp. | For gentle heat |
| Butter or nonstick spray | as needed | To grease the baking pan |
| Fresh dill | for garnish | – |
Step-by-Step Directions
- Cook the Bacon and Onions:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add bacon strips and cook until golden brown (about 6-8 minutes). Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Leave the bacon fat in the skillet.
- Add chopped red onion to the skillet and sauté in the bacon fat for 3-4 minutes, until slightly softened. Transfer onions to a separate paper towel-lined plate.
- Prep the Bagels:
- Cut unsliced everything bagels into 1-inch pieces. Day-old bagels work best to soak up the custard without turning mushy.
- Prepare the Egg Custard:
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, salt, black pepper, (optional) cayenne pepper, shredded parmesan, and chopped parsley until well blended.
- Grease the Baking Dish:
- Use butter or nonstick spray to thoroughly coat a 9-by-13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Arrange half the bagel pieces in the base of the baking dish.
- Crumble half of the cooked bacon and sprinkle it over the bagels.
- Pour half the egg mixture evenly over the bagels and bacon.
- Scatter all of the cooked onions evenly across this layer.
- Slice cream cheese into 12 pieces and distribute evenly atop the mixture.
- Repeat with remaining bagels, bacon, and remaining egg mixture for a second layer.
- Chill Overnight:
- Cover the casserole tightly with foil and let it refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This allows the bagels to soak up the custard, resulting in a creamy, cohesive bake.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). While the oven preheats, remove the casserole from the fridge and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Bake, covered, for 50 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking another 25–30 minutes until the top is golden brown, the center is hot, and the custard is set.
- Allow the casserole to cool for 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh dill and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions & Topping Ideas
This casserole is delicious and hearty served as is, but you can take it to the next level with these accompaniments and toppings:
- Fresh dill or chives: Sprinkle over the top for herby brightness, or add both for extra color.
- Sliced tomatoes: Serve on the side for a fresh contrast to the rich casserole.
- Smoked salmon: Classic lox pairs perfectly, especially for a bagel-inspired brunch.
- More bacon: Because, why not?
- Capers, pickled onions, or thinly sliced cucumbers: Offer a deli platter vibe.
- Avocado slices: Add creaminess and color.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Overnight Prep: The casserole tastes best prepared the night before, letting the bagels fully absorb the custard.
- Storing Leftovers: Cover tightly and refrigerate. Leftovers keep well for up to 4 days. Reheat single portions in the microwave or cover and warm in the oven at 300°F until hot throughout.
- Freezing: You can freeze the baked casserole in slices wrapped tightly, though texture may soften slightly after reheating.
Customization Ideas
This recipe is a blueprint—feel free to personalize with these twists:
- Cheese swaps: Try Gruyere or sharp cheddar for different flavor profiles.
- Vegetarian version: Omit bacon and add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or extra onions.
- Spicy: Add more cayenne or diced jalapeños for heat.
- Bagel variations: Use half everything, half plain, or even onion or sesame bagels. You can even use gluten-free bagels if needed.
- Dairy-free option: Sub plant-based cream cheese and milk alternatives—but note the texture changes.
Tips for Casserole Success
- Use stale bagels: Fresher ones can turn mushy; day-old or toasted bagels soak up the custard best.
- Cube cream cheese: Cutting into cubes/slices ensures melty pockets throughout instead of mixing it in.
- Let sit before baking: Allowing the casserole to warm slightly before baking helps even cooking and better rise.
- Check doneness: The center should be set (not jiggly) before you remove it from the oven.
What others are reading
What Makes Everything Bagel Casserole So Special?
The irresistible appeal of everything bagel casserole lies in its harmonious blend of classic deli flavors and comforting, hearty ingredients. The bagels provide a chewy, satisfying base; bacon adds smokiness and salt; cream cheese melts into tantalizing rich pockets throughout; and the custardy egg mixture ties everything together with savory, creamy luxury. Sprinkled with fresh dill and parsley, each bite delivers everything you love about a fully loaded deli breakfast in a convenient, sliceable format.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420–480 kcal |
| Protein | 15–18g |
| Fat | 28–32g |
| Carbohydrates | 32–38g |
| Sodium | 700–900mg |
*Exact values depend on bagel and cheese brands used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make the casserole two days ahead?
A: While best assembled 8–12 hours ahead, a tightly covered casserole will keep in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Beyond that, the texture may become soggy.
Q: Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
A: Yes! Omit the bacon and substitute with extra vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, bell pepper, or thinly sliced broccoli.
Q: What can I use instead of everything bagels?
A: Any bagel can be used (plain, onion, or sesame), or substitute with day-old sturdy rolls or bread and add everything bagel seasoning to mimic the flavor profile.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, wrap cooled slices in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a covered dish at 300°F until warmed through.
Q: Do I need everything bagel seasoning for this recipe?
A: No. Everything bagels already provide the signature seasoning. However, an extra sprinkle on top before baking or serving is welcome for extra crunch and flavor intensity.
Final Thoughts: The Perfect Casserole for Any Occasion
Whether you’re planning a holiday brunch, a laid-back Saturday breakfast, or a show-stopping buffet for guests, this everything bagel breakfast casserole delivers on flavor, ease, and crowd-pleasing appeal. Customizable and forgiving, it brings together beloved bagel shop flavors in a form you can prepare ahead and serve with confidence. Don’t forget the fresh dill, and enjoy with your favorite brunch sides!
References
- https://jenaroundtheworld.com/everything-bagel-breakfast-casserole/
- https://www.homemadeinterest.com/everything-bagel-make-ahead-breakfast-casserole/
- https://sallysbakingaddiction.com/everything-bagel-breakfast-casserole/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a37612272/everything-bagel-casserole-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g45999438/make-ahead-breakfast-casseroles/
- http://littlekitchie.blogspot.com/2013/12/bagel-and-cream-cheese-breakfast.html
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g38082436/breakfast-casserole-recipes/
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