If you’re looking for a breakfast dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Everything Bagel Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine the savory, melty goodness of Gruyere cheese mingling with crispy bacon bits and cubes of rich cream cheese nestled inside cubes of flavorful everything bagels—all soaked in a creamy egg custard and baked to golden perfection. This casserole makes lazy mornings exciting and busy ones manageable, especially because you can prepare it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a comforting solo breakfast, this casserole combines textures and flavors that turn an everyday meal into something memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward yet incredibly flavorful ingredients. Each component has a vital role, from the chewy, savory everything bagels that bring in that irresistible seasoning blend to the luxurious Gruyere that melts into gooey pockets of cheesy delight. Every bite is a dance of textures and tastes.
- Everything bagels (5, cut into 1-inch cubes): These seasoned bagels are the star base, adding both bulk and that perfect “everything” seasoning zing.
- Bacon (8 ounces, cooked and diced): Crispy, smoky bacon pieces introduce that crave-worthy salty crunch.
- Gruyere cheese (2 cups, shredded): Adds a nutty, melty layer of indulgence that binds the casserole together.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, cut into 1-inch cubes): Offering creamy pockets that provide richness and smooth texture melting into every slice.
- Eggs (8 large): The foundation that holds the casserole, creating that custardy, fluffy texture.
- Heavy cream (2 cups): Enriches the custard to give the casserole a velvety softness.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances and enhances all the savory flavors.
- Pepper (¼ teaspoon): A gentle kick that elevates the depth of flavor without overpowering.
- Chives (for garnish): Adds a fresh, oniony brightness as a final touch.
How to Make Everything Bagel Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Casserole Dish
Start by greasing a 13×9 inch casserole dish to ensure your beautiful creation won’t stick. A little butter or non-stick spray works perfectly here and sets the stage for a smooth release after baking.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
Place half of the cubed everything bagels on the bottom of the dish, then sprinkle over half the crispy bacon, half the shredded Gruyere, and half the cream cheese cubes. This layering ensures each bite has a balanced mix of flavors. Now repeat that layering with the remaining bagel cubes, bacon, Gruyere, and cream cheese to build delicious layers of goodness.
Step 3: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until smooth and fully combined. This rich custard will soak into the bagels, awakening them with savory custardy bliss when baked.
Step 4: Combine and Chill
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered casserole, making sure every bagel cube gets lovingly coated. Cover tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or better yet, overnight. This soaking time allows the casserole to meld all the flavors and soak up the custard, making each slice wonderfully moist and flavorful.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
When it’s showtime, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 40 minutes—this gentle baking cooks the custard through without drying out the top. Then remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes to achieve a beautifully golden, slightly crispy top layer that’s irresistible.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes—this resting period helps it set up so slices hold their shape and the flavors fully harmonize. Sprinkle freshly chopped chives generously on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor just before serving.
How to Serve Everything Bagel Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like fresh chives or a light scattering of extra everything bagel seasoning can add a delightful freshness and textural pop. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can also elevate the flavor and bring some creamy heat or tang.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with light sides like a crisp green salad, fresh fruit salad, or even roasted tomatoes to balance the richness with brightness. For a true brunch spread, offer some avocado slices or a side of sautéed spinach to bring a nutritious touch.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider cutting this casserole into cute mini portions for a brunch party, or serve it layered in clear glass dishes to showcase the beautiful strata of bagel, cheese, and bacon. You can garnish each slice individually with fresh herbs or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika to amp up the visual appeal and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover casserole covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tastes just as delicious warmed up and is perfect for quick breakfasts during the week.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you want a quick meal, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes until heated through for a fast and tasty second round.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bagel?
While everything bagels give this casserole its signature flavor, you could substitute other bagel varieties if needed, such as sesame or plain, but the unique seasoning will be missed.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for a delicious vegetarian twist without sacrificing flavor.
How long does the casserole keep in the fridge once baked?
It stays fresh for up to three days when kept in an airtight container, making it a fantastic option for meal prep breakfasts.
Is it okay to prepare the casserole the night before and bake in the morning?
Yes, that’s one of the easiest ways to make this recipe. Just assemble it, refrigerate overnight, and bake fresh in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
Can I use a different cheese instead of Gruyere?
Gruyere is preferred for its flavor and melt, but Swiss, mozzarella, or cheddar can work nicely depending on your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
This Everything Bagel Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole Recipe has truly become one of my all-time favorite ways to start the day. With its incredible layers of flavor and easy make-ahead charm, it brings joy to any breakfast or brunch table. I can’t wait for you to try it out, share it with loved ones, and discover how this cozy casserole transforms your mornings into something special. Happy baking!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes plus 4+ hours refrigeration
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Everything Bagel Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole is a savory, cheesy dish layered with cubed everything bagels, crispy bacon, creamy Gruyere and cream cheese, then soaked in a rich egg and heavy cream mixture. Perfect for brunch or a hearty breakfast, it can be prepared in advance and baked fresh when ready to serve.
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 dish: Grease a 13×9 inch casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Layer the first half: Place half of the cubed everything bagels evenly in the casserole dish. Sprinkle half of the diced bacon over the bagels, followed by half of the shredded Gruyere, and then half of the cubed cream cheese.
- Layer the second half: Repeat the layering process by adding the remaining bagel cubes, bacon, Gruyere, and cream cheese on top.
- Mix the custard: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until fully combined and smooth.
- Add custard to casserole: Pour the egg and cream mixture evenly over the layered ingredients, ensuring all the bagels are soaked.
- Refrigerate: Cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the bagels 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 and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake in the oven for 40 minutes to allow the casserole to set and cook through.
- Finish baking uncovered: Remove the foil carefully and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes to brown the top.
- Rest and serve: Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh chopped chives and serve warm.
Notes
- For best flavor and texture, prepare the casserole the night before.
- You can substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- If everything bagels are unavailable, use plain or sesame bagels and sprinkle additional everything bagel seasoning.
- Ensure the casserole is tightly covered while refrigerating to prevent drying out.
- This casserole can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes before serving.
