Description
This Everything Bagel Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, savory dish perfect for brunch or a cozy breakfast. Featuring layers of flavorful everything bagels, crispy bacon, creamy Gruyere cheese, and rich cream cheese all soaked in a seasoned egg and cream mixture, it can be prepared in advance and baked fresh when needed. Topped with fresh chives, it’s a delicious and convenient breakfast option for feeding a crowd.
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
- Chives for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the casserole dish: Grease a 13×9 inch casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking during baking.
- Layer the first half: Add half of the cubed everything bagels to the casserole dish. Sprinkle with half of the cooked and diced bacon, followed by half of the shredded Gruyere cheese and half of the cream cheese cubes.
- Layer the second half: Repeat the layering process with the remaining everything bagels, bacon, Gruyere, and cream cheese to create two full layers.
- Mix egg custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour custard over layers: Evenly pour the egg and cream mixture over the layered bagels and cheeses, making sure all pieces are well covered and soaked.
- Refrigerate to set: Tightly cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap or foil and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the custard to fully soak the bagels.
- Preheat oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake covered: Remove the casserole from the refrigerator, cover it with aluminum foil, and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes to gently cook through.
- Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for an additional 15 minutes to brown the top and finish cooking.
- Cool and garnish: Allow the casserole to cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped chives and enjoy your delicious breakfast casserole!
Notes
- This casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance for convenience.
- Use leftover or day-old everything bagels for best texture as they absorb the custard well.
- Feel free to substitute bacon with sausage or a vegetarian alternative as desired.
- Gruyere adds a rich, nutty flavor, but Swiss or cheddar cheese can be used instead.
- Ensure the casserole is covered tightly during refrigeration to prevent it from drying out.
- Allowing the casserole to rest before serving helps it set and makes slicing easier.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.