Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole

This everything bagel breakfast casserole is my go-to option when I want something crowd-pleasing for a holiday brunch or a weekend gathering. It is rich savory and packed with all the flavors of your favorite deli breakfast in one warm and comforting dish. You can prep it ahead or throw it together quickly and the leftovers keep beautifully.

The first time I baked this casserole I worried my picky eaters would turn up their noses at the veggies but they went back for seconds and asked for it again the next weekend

Ingredients

• Everything bagels: day-old preferred for the best texture and sturdy base for the casserole Look for bagels that feel firm to the touch and have lots of toppings
• Bell pepper: brings color and a subtle sweetness Use one that feels heavy for its size and has shiny skin
• Cherry tomatoes: offer juicy bursts of freshness If not in season grab the firmest regular tomatoes instead
• Cooked bacon: infuses smoky flavor and adds a bit of crisp Choose thick-cut for hearty bites
• Eggs: the backbone of the casserole For richness use large eggs at room temperature
• Whole milk: makes the casserole tender and creamy Whole milk works best for flavor Try to avoid using skim
• Shredded cheese: for meltiness Mozzarella cheddar gouda or your favorite Blend a couple if you like
• Ground mustard: provides a gentle tang and rounds out the richness Use fresh spice for maximum punch
• Salt and black pepper: to highlight the flavors Use freshly ground black pepper for a more aromatic touch
• Full-fat brick cream cheese: softens into the casserole with pockets of melty goodness Use brick style rather than whipped for best results
• Everything bagel seasoning and scallions: optional but fantastic for finishing Sprinkle seasoning liberally if you love a big bagel flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Oven and Dish:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit Make sure the oven rack is in the center position Grease a 9 by 13 inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray reaching into the corners to prevent sticking

Assemble the Layers:

Scatter your cubed bagel pieces evenly in the baking dish Add the chopped bell pepper cherry tomatoes and cooked chopped bacon on top Gently toss everything with your hands to distribute the ingredients

Mix the Egg Custard:

In a large mixing bowl whisk the eggs until smooth and no stripes remain Pour in the milk add your shredded cheese ground mustard salt and black pepper Whisk again until well blended with no clumps of cheese

Combine Everything:

Slowly pour the egg mixture over the bagel layer making sure to wet all the pieces Use a spoon to gently press down so the custard seeps between every bite

Add Cream Cheese and Seasoning:

Dot the top of the casserole evenly with bite-sized chunks of brick cream cheese If you like extra flavor now is the time to sprinkle everything bagel seasoning across the casserole

Bake the Casserole:

Place the casserole in your preheated oven Bake for 40 to 50 minutes Keep an eye on it after 35 minutes The casserole should puff slightly and the edges should turn deep golden brown Insert a knife in the center – it is done when it comes out clean with no runny egg

Cool and Serve:

Let your casserole rest for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven This makes it easier to slice and allows flavors to settle Garnish with sliced scallions if desired before serving

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My favorite part is those hidden bites of cream cheese which always feel like a little surprise The first time my family shared this at our New Years brunch my dad declared it the best breakfast he ever had and now we make it every year

Storage Tips

This casserole can be covered tightly and stored in the fridge for up to one week If you want to keep it even longer cut it into portions wrap well and freeze for up to three months Reheat single servings in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a low oven until hot

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have bacon swap for cooked sausage shredded rotisserie chicken or stick to roasted vegetables for a meatless version Cheddar mozzarella gouda or pepper jack all melt beautifully Choose what you love For the bagels try onion or plain if everything bagels are not available

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hot topped with extra scallions and a side of fruit salad It goes perfectly with a crisp green salad for lunch or a platter of smoked salmon and capers for fancier occasions For a simple everyday breakfast try it with hot sauce or extra bagel seasoning

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Cultural and Historical Context

This recipe takes inspiration from the classic American breakfast casserole but layers in all the flavors of iconic New York everything bagels It is a modern fusion that celebrates how we love big bold bagel flavors baked into cozy family friendly meals

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare this bake in advance?

Yes, assemble the dish the night before, cover, refrigerate, and bake fresh in the morning. It can also be frozen before or after baking.

→ What type of bagels work best?

Slightly stale everything bagels hold up well and absorb the custard without becoming soggy. Toast fresh bagels if needed.

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely. Try mozzarella, gouda, cheddar, or pepper jack. Mix varieties for a deeper flavor or use favorites suited to your taste.

→ Is it possible to substitute the bacon?

Yes, feel free to use cooked sausage, ham, or keep it vegetarian with extra vegetables.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Cover and refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.