There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of a warm breakfast casserole baking in the oven, especially on lazy weekend mornings. I remember the first time I made this Easy Cheesy Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole. The aroma filled the house and brought everyone to the kitchen, hungry and eager for breakfast. This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it brings family and friends together, effortlessly filling plates and hearts. It’s easy to prepare and is packed with rich cheese flavor and the beloved taste of everything bagels. What makes it truly special is its perfect balance of textures—soft bagel pieces soaking in creamy egg custard, topped with melted cheese and savory seasoning. It’s a recipe you’ll want to have in your breakfast rotation.
why make this recipe
This breakfast casserole is a great choice for any morning. It allows you to prepare a hearty dish that can feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. Using day-old bagels not only helps reduce waste, but it also adds a delightful chewiness. The combination of cheeses creates a creamy, cheesy hug for each bite, making your mornings feel warm and comforting. Plus, it’s customizable—you can easily add in vegetables or meats for extra flavor. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just want to treat your family, this casserole is sure to please everyone.
how to make Easy Cheesy Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients:
- 4 large everything bagels, cubed (day-old or slightly stale)
- 8 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups (16 fl oz) whole milk or half-and-half
- 1 ½ cups (about 6 oz) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup (about 4 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened (optional)
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp everything bagel seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, for greasing the baking dish
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter your 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Cube the bagels into roughly 1-inch pieces. If fresh, let them sit out for 30 minutes or lightly toast to dry out slightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or cream), onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Add the softened cream cheese to the egg mixture, breaking it up with your whisk or fork until small chunks disappear.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses into the custard mixture, reserving a small handful for sprinkling on top.
- Place the bagel cubes in the prepared baking dish and gently pour the egg and cheese mixture over the top, pressing down lightly to coat all bagel pieces.
- Sprinkle the reserved cheese evenly on top, then generously cover the entire surface with the everything bagel seasoning.
- Let the casserole sit for 10 minutes to allow the bagels to absorb some of the custard before baking.
- Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
how to serve Easy Cheesy Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole
Serve this casserole warm, straight from the oven. Cut it into squares and serve on plates or in bowls. You can add fresh fruit on the side or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess. This dish pairs well with coffee or fresh juice, making it a complete breakfast.
how to store Easy Cheesy Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole
If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely and then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
tips to make Easy Cheesy Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole
- For best results, use bagels that are slightly stale. Fresh bagels may not absorb the egg mixture as well.
- Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables, like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms, to customize the dish.
- If you like it spicier, consider adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the egg mixture.
variation (if any)
For a different twist, try using different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or gouda. You can also swap out everything bagels for another flavor, like cinnamon raisin, for a sweet breakfast option.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
Is there a gluten-free option?
You can use gluten-free bagels to make this dish gluten-free. Just check the label to ensure they are truly gluten-free.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. If it’s not done, continue baking for a few more minutes, checking regularly.
