Description
This Everything Bagel Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole is a savory and satisfying dish perfect for brunch or a hearty breakfast. Featuring layers of cubed everything bagels, crispy bacon, creamy Gruyere cheese, and cream cheese, all soaked in a rich egg and heavy cream mixture, this casserole can be prepared in advance and baked fresh when ready. Topped with fresh chives, it combines the delicious flavors of an everything bagel with the convenience of a baked casserole.
Ingredients
Scale
Bagel and Cheese Layers
- 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
Egg Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Garnish
- Chives, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the dish: Grease a 13×9 inch casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Layer the first half: Place half of the cubed everything bagels evenly in the casserole dish. Sprinkle half of the cooked and diced bacon over the bagels, followed by half of the shredded Gruyere cheese, and then half of the cream cheese cubes.
- Repeat layers: Add the remaining everything bagel cubes as a second layer, then top with the remaining bacon, Gruyere, and cream cheese cubes, evenly distributing each ingredient.
- Mix egg custard: In a mixing bowl, combine the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is completely combined and slightly frothy.
- Pour custard over layers: Carefully pour the egg and cream mixture over the layered ingredients in the casserole dish, ensuring all bagel cubes are moist and covered.
- Refrigerate to set: Cover the casserole dish tightly 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 soak in fully.
- Preheat the 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 for 40 minutes to cook through while keeping moisture in.
- Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes to set the top and allow it to brown nicely.
- Cool and garnish: Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped chives and enjoy your breakfast casserole warm.
Notes
- This casserole can be assembled the night before and baked fresh in the morning for convenience.
- For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and substitute with vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
- Using day-old bagels helps them absorb the egg mixture better without becoming too soggy.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; additional herbs like dill or parsley complement the flavors well.
- Covering the casserole during the initial baking ensures a moist custard without drying out.
