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Everything Bagel Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 60 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Breakfast Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Everything Bagel Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole is a savory, crowd-pleasing dish featuring layers of toasted everything bagel cubes, crispy bacon, creamy Gruyere cheese, and tangy cream cheese, all soaked in a rich egg and heavy cream custard. Perfect for brunch or breakfast gatherings, it can be assembled ahead of time and baked fresh in the morning for a warm, comforting start to the day.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 5 Everything bagels, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 8 ounces Bacon, cooked and diced
  • 2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded
  • 8 ounces Cream cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 8 large Eggs
  • 2 cups Heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon Salt
  • ¼ teaspoon Black pepper
  • Chives, for garnish


Instructions

  1. Prepare the casserole dish: Grease a 13×9 inch casserole dish thoroughly to ensure the casserole does not stick during baking.
  2. Layer the base: Add half of the cubed everything bagels to the bottom of the casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle half of the cooked, diced bacon over the bagels, followed by half of the shredded Gruyere cheese and half of the cubed cream cheese.
  3. Add the second layer: Repeat the layering process with the remaining everything bagel cubes, bacon, Gruyere cheese, and cream cheese to build a second even layer.
  4. Make the custard mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper until well combined and smooth.
  5. Pour custard over layers: Pour the egg and cream mixture evenly over the layered bagels and cheeses, ensuring all pieces are well soaked.
  6. Chill the casserole: Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to fully absorb the custard.
  7. Preheat the oven: Before baking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  8. Bake covered: Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 40 minutes to cook through and set the custard.
  9. Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes to brown the top and crisp up the cheese and bread.
  10. Cool and garnish: Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped chives for a pop of color and flavor.

Notes

  • For best results, prepare the casserole the night before to allow the flavors to meld and the bagels to soak thoroughly.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach instead.
  • Gruyere cheese adds a nutty, creamy flavor, but you can substitute with Swiss or cheddar cheese if desired.
  • Use fresh chives for garnish right before serving for the best flavor and presentation.
  • Make sure to tightly cover the casserole during refrigeration to prevent drying out or absorbing other fridge odors.