Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Everything Bagel Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 35 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (including refrigeration time)
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Breakfast Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Everything Bagel Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole is a savory, hearty dish perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch. Layers of everything bagel cubes, crispy bacon, melted Gruyere, and creamy cream cheese are soaked in a rich egg and heavy cream custard, then baked to golden perfection. Prepared ahead and refrigerated overnight, this casserole saves time in the morning while delivering comforting flavors with a delightful texture contrast from savory toppings and creamy cheese.


Ingredients

Bagel and Cheese

  • 5 Everything bagels, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes

Meat

  • 8 ounces bacon, cooked and diced

Custard

  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper

Garnish

  • Chives, chopped


Instructions

  1. Prepare the casserole dish: Grease a 13×9 inch casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking during baking.
  2. Layer bagels and toppings (first layer): Place half of the everything bagel cubes evenly in the casserole dish. Sprinkle half of the cooked and diced bacon over the bagels. Follow with half of the shredded Gruyere cheese and half of the cream cheese cubes.
  3. Layer bagels and toppings (second layer): Repeat the layering with the remaining bagel cubes, bacon, Gruyere, and cream cheese, ensuring even distribution.
  4. Combine custard mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
  5. Pour custard over casserole: Evenly pour the egg and cream mixture over the layered bagels and toppings, making sure all pieces are soaked.
  6. Refrigerate before baking: Cover the casserole dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and the bagels to absorb the custard.
  7. Preheat oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  8. Bake casserole: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden and the custard is set.
  9. Cool and garnish: Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped chives for a fresh, flavorful finish.

Notes

  • Make sure to cook the bacon until crispy for the best texture contrast.
  • This casserole can be assembled a day ahead to save time on busy mornings.
  • Use day-old bagels if possible for better soaking without becoming too mushy.
  • Feel free to substitute Gruyere with Swiss or cheddar cheese if desired.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven.
  • This dish can be customized with additional vegetables like spinach or mushrooms if desired.