If you’re on the lookout for a cozy, crowd-pleasing breakfast that you can prep ahead of time, the Everything Bagel Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine layers of chewy everything bagel cubes, crispy bacon, luscious Gruyere, and pockets of cream cheese all soaked in a rich custard. This casserole bakes up golden and bubbly, delivering that iconic everything bagel flavor in a hearty, sliceable dish that’s perfect for brunches, holiday mornings, or any lazy weekend gathering. Plus, making it ahead means mornings just got a whole lot easier and more delicious.

5 everything bagels cut into 1-inch cubes with a golden crust and speckled with sesame, poppy, and onion seeds, crispy cooked bacon pieces with rich reddish-brown hues and a slightly glossy texture, shredded Gruyere cheese in pale yellow curls with a soft, slightly crumbly texture, cream cheese cubes in smooth, creamy white blocks, whole large eggs with smooth tan shells, a small bowl of heavy cream in glossy white liquid form, scattered coarse salt crystals and freshly ground black pepper flakes, fresh bright green chives cut into small segments for garnish; all ingredients carefully arranged on a clean white marble surface with soft natural light creating gentle shadows, a balanced composition showcasing contrasting colors and textures, subtle props such as a rustic wooden spoon and a sleek whisk placed nearby to add context without clutter; overhead shot, top down view, flat lay photography, professional food styling --ar 1:1 --q 2 --s 750 --v 6.1

Ingredients You’ll Need

Putting this casserole together requires simple, staple ingredients, each chosen for the magic they bring to the final dish. From savory bacon to creamy cheeses, every component adds texture, flavor, and that inviting everything bagel vibe we love.

Everything bagels (5, cut into 1-inch cubes): The star base of the casserole, bringing that irresistible everything seasoning and chewy bread texture.
Bacon (8 ounces, cooked and diced): Adds smoky crunch and a salty bite to every forkful.
Gruyere cheese (2 cups, shredded): Melts beautifully and introduces a slightly nutty richness that complements the bagels.
Cream cheese (8 ounces, cut into 1-inch cubes): Provides creamy, gooey pockets of tangy indulgence throughout the casserole.
Eggs (8 large): Bind everything together into that luscious custard texture we crave in breakfast casseroles.
Heavy cream (2 cups): Makes the custard luxuriously rich and tender.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the savory flavors without overpowering them.
Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Gives a touch of gentle warmth and balances the richness.
Chives (for garnish): Fresh, bright bites that elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise.

How to Make Everything Bagel Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dish

Start by greasing a 13×9 inch casserole dish so your creation won’t stick and everyone can easily serve up a perfect slice later on.

Step 2: Layer the First Half

Place half of the everything bagel cubes evenly in the dish. Sprinkle half of the diced bacon on top, followed by half of the shredded Gruyere cheese and half of the cream cheese cubes. This layering ensures each bite will contain all the flavors evenly balanced.

Step 3: Repeat the Layers

Add the remaining everything bagel cubes, bacon, Gruyere, and cream cheese in the same order, building a flavorful stack that will soak up the custard beautifully.

Step 4: Whisk the Custard

In a medium bowl, combine the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is completely blended and slightly frothy—this will create that dreamy, silky custard base.

Step 5: Pour the Custard Over

Slowly pour the egg mixture over the layered bagels, making sure to cover every nook and cranny so the casserole cooks evenly and every bite is custardy and indulgent.

Step 6: Refrigerate Before Baking

Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap, then place it in the fridge for at least four hours or overnight. This rest time lets the bagels soak up the custard fully for maximum flavor and perfect texture.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Before baking, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. When ready, cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake it for 40 minutes to gently cook through without drying out.

Step 8: Finish Baking Uncovered

Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes so the top can brown beautifully, getting golden and bubbly with a slight crisp.

Step 9: Cool and Garnish

After baking, let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes — this helps it set for nice, clean slices. Sprinkle fresh chives on top just before serving to add a pop of color and that subtle oniony freshness.

How to Serve Everything Bagel Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Chives are a natural choice for garnishing this casserole, but you can also add a dollop of sour cream or a scattering of extra everything bagel seasoning for an eye-catching finish that highlights its bagel roots.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a simple mixed green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or a bowl of fresh fruit to contrast the richness. Crispy hash browns or roasted potatoes also make hearty companions that round out a satisfying brunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the casserole into squares and serving on individual plates with a drizzle of hot sauce or a smear of cream cheese spread. For a brunch buffet, set it out alongside mini bagels, smoked salmon, and capers to play up the everything bagel theme.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover casserole tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat portions gently to maintain creaminess without drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked casserole by wrapping it securely in foil and placing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Warm individual slices in the microwave on medium power or reheat the entire casserole in a 325-degree oven until heated through to keep the texture and flavors intact.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While Gruyere adds a wonderful nuttiness, feel free to swap in cheddar, mozzarella, or even a blend to suit your taste preferences.

Is it important to use everything bagels?

The everything bagels deliver signature seasoning that defines this casserole’s flavor, but in a pinch, plain or sesame bagels can work too—just consider adding your own poppy seeds, sesame seeds, and onion flakes to mimic the flavor.

How long can I refrigerate before baking?

The casserole can soak in the fridge for up to 24 hours, making it perfect for overnight prep that doesn’t compromise texture or taste.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or your favorite veggies to keep it hearty and flavorful.

What’s the best way to cut and serve this casserole?

Allow it to cool fully for clean slices, then use a sharp knife to cut into squares or rectangles. Serve warm and enjoy the melty goodness with each bite.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say the Everything Bagel Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole Recipe is a game-changer for making mornings deliciously effortless. Whether feeding a crowd or treating yourself, it’s a delightful blend of familiar flavors turned into a comforting breakfast classic. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a cherished favorite in your brunch rotation!