Description
This Everything Bagel Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole is a savory, cheesy breakfast dish perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings. Layers of everything bagel cubes, crispy bacon, creamy Gruyere cheese, and rich cream cheese are soaked in a silky egg and heavy cream custard, then baked to golden perfection. Prepared in advance and refrigerated overnight, this casserole offers a convenient and delicious way to start your day with familiar, comforting flavors.
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 pepper
Garnish
- Chives, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Casserole Dish: Grease a 13×9 inch casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking during baking.
- First Layer Assembly: Place half of the everything bagel cubes in the casserole dish. Sprinkle evenly with half of the cooked and diced bacon, half of the shredded Gruyere cheese, and half of the cream cheese cubes.
- Second Layer Assembly: Repeat the layering by adding the remaining everything bagel cubes, bacon, Gruyere cheese, and cream cheese, creating a second even layer.
- Mix Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour Custard Over Layers: Slowly pour the egg and cream mixture over the layered bagel casserole, ensuring all pieces are saturated.
- Refrigerate: Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow flavors to meld and bread to absorb the custard.
- Preheat Oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake Covered: Remove the casserole from the refrigerator, cover with aluminum foil, and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden and the casserole is set.
- Cool and Garnish: Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chives and enjoy your delicious breakfast casserole.
Notes
- Prepare the casserole the night before for best flavor and texture.
- Ensure the bacon is fully cooked and crispy before adding to maintain texture.
- Heavy cream makes the casserole rich and creamy; you may substitute half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Greasing the casserole dish well prevents sticking and makes serving easier.
- Use fresh chives to add a pop of color and mild onion flavor as a garnish.
- This recipe can be doubled for larger groups using a bigger casserole dish.
