This savory breakfast casserole is hearty, cheesy, and packed with bold everything bagel flavor.
It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead for an easy, satisfying morning meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole combines crispy bagels, creamy cheese, and savory bacon in every bite.
It’s easy to prepare ahead and perfect for brunch, holidays, or busy mornings.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Day-old everything bagels soak up the custard while keeping a slightly chewy texture.
Cream cheese adds rich, creamy pockets that melt beautifully while baking.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use slightly stale bagels for the best texture and absorption.
Let the casserole rest after baking so it slices cleanly and holds its shape.
How to Make Everything Bagel Casserole
Step 1 – Prepare the dish
Preheat oven to 375°F (191°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously.
Step 2 – Layer the base
Add bagel pieces, bell pepper, tomatoes, and chopped bacon evenly into the dish.
Step 3 – Mix the custard
Whisk eggs, milk, shredded cheese, ground mustard, salt, and pepper until combined.
Step 4 – Assemble
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bagel mixture, then top with cream cheese pieces and seasoning.
Step 5 – Bake
Bake for 40–50 minutes until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
Step 6 – Rest and serve
Cool for 10 minutes, then garnish with scallions if desired before slicing and serving.
What to Serve Them With
Serve with a fresh fruit salad for a balanced breakfast.
Pair with coffee or fresh juice for a complete brunch spread.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap bacon for sausage or a vegetarian alternative.
Use different cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss for varied flavor.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it the night before and bake in the morning.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for freshness.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze in portions and thaw overnight before reheating.
Can I substitute ingredients?
Yes, adjust vegetables, protein, or cheese based on preference.
How long does it take to make?
It takes about 1 hour including baking time.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s cheesy and flavorful without being too strong.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free milk, cheese, and cream cheese alternatives.
What should I serve it with?
It pairs well with fruit, salad, or breakfast sides.
Do I need special equipment?
No, just a standard baking dish and mixing bowl.
How do I know it’s done?
The center should be set and the top lightly golden.
Final Thoughts
This everything bagel casserole is rich, satisfying, and perfect for sharing.
It’s a simple yet impressive dish that works for both everyday breakfasts and special occasions.
Full Recipe Card
Ingredients
- 3 day-old everything bagels, cut into bite-size pieces (about 6 cups)
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 3/4 cup (113g) cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 9 large eggs
- 1 and 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 and 1/2 cups shredded cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 ounces (170g) cream cheese, cut into pieces
- Optional: everything bagel seasoning and scallions
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (191°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer bagels, bell pepper, tomatoes, and bacon in the dish.
- Whisk eggs, milk, cheese, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Pour mixture over the layered ingredients.
- Top with cream cheese and optional seasoning.
- Bake 40–50 minutes until set and golden.
- Cool 10 minutes, garnish, slice, and serve.
