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If you love the savory charm of an everything bagel and crave a hearty breakfast that satisfies a crowd, the Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole Recipe is about to become your new go-to brunch favorite. This dish brilliantly transforms those beloved bagels into a warm, cheesy, sausage-studded casserole that’s creamy, comforting, and full of layers of flavor you’ll want to savor again and again. It combines the perfect balance of textures from the soft bagel base to the rich custard and melty cheddar topping, making every bite a delightful breakfast celebration.

Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, familiar ingredients is the key to creating the magic of the Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole Recipe. Each component plays a vital role, whether adding savory depth, creamy richness, or that iconic bagel flavor.

Everything bagels: Five bagels split and chopped to create a sturdy yet tender base full of savory seasoning.
Sausage: One pound of sausage, cooked until browned, adds a juicy, meaty richness that complements the bagels perfectly.
Cream cheese: Four ounces softened cream cheese stirred in for a luscious, tangy creaminess that binds the sausage.
Eggs: Seven large eggs form the custard backbone, holding everything together with a rich texture.
Heavy cream: Two and a quarter cups of heavy cream make the casserole luxuriously moist and silky.
Sour cream: A quarter cup of sour cream brings a subtle tang that brightens the flavor without overpowering it.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Two cups sprinkled on top for a golden, melty, cheesy crust that seals in all the deliciousness.

How to Make Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the baking dish and bagels

Start by spraying a deep-dish 9x13x2-inch baking dish with cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking. Spread the chopped everything bagels evenly across the bottom, creating the savory base that will soak up all the creamy egg mixture beautifully.

Step 2: Cook the sausage and blend with cream cheese

Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until it’s no longer pink, making sure to drain off the fat for a cleaner finish. Then, add the softened cream cheese directly into the skillet and stir until it melts and combines with the sausage. This creates a dreamy, creamy sausage mixture that complements the bagels perfectly.

Step 3: Layer the sausage mixture over bagels

Scatter the creamy sausage mixture over the chopped bagels, distributing it evenly to ensure every slice of bagel has some meaty goodness on top. This layer adds incredible flavor and texture contrast to the dish.

Step 4: Whisk together the custard and pour

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and sour cream until smooth and fully combined. This rich custard mixture gets poured gently over the layered bagels and sausage, soaking into every nook and cranny for that perfect bite.

Step 5: Top with cheddar cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheddar generously over the top. This not only gives the casserole a beautiful golden crust but provides a sharp, melty finish that ties all the flavors together in a warm embrace.

Step 6: Refrigerate overnight

Cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or overnight. This step lets the flavors meld and the bagels absorb the custard, making the final bake tender and flavorful.

Step 7: Bake until set

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350ºF and remove the casserole from the fridge. Bake it uncovered for 55 to 65 minutes, until the center is completely set and the cheese on top is bubbling and golden. Letting it cool slightly before serving helps the casserole slice perfectly.

How to Serve Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole Recipe, sprinkle fresh chopped chives or green onions on top for a burst of fresh color and mild onion flavor. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can add extra tang or heat depending on your mood.

Side Dishes

This casserole shines best paired with crisp, fresh fruit or a bright green salad to balance the richness. A simple citrus fruit salad or some roasted asparagus provides a refreshing contrast and rounds out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for cozy family breakfasts or slice it into individual portions and plate with a sprig of dill or parsley for brunch guests. For a fun twist, offer a toppings bar with avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or pickled jalapeños so everyone can personalize their slice.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole maintains its moist texture well, making it perfect for quick breakfasts in the days following your big brunch.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole either before baking or after it’s cooled, wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Frozen casseroles last for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes or until warm. For a crispier top, reheat in a 350ºF oven for 10 to 15 minutes. This will revive the texture and melt the cheese perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bagel for this recipe?

Absolutely! While everything bagels provide a distinctive flavor from the seasoning, you can substitute sesame or plain bagels if you prefer, though the signature seasoning will be missed.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the casserole overnight?

Refrigerating overnight allows the bagels to soak up the custard fully and the flavors to meld, but if you’re short on time, a couple of hours can suffice with slightly different texture.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the sausage and consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables to maintain heartiness and flavor.

What kind of cheese works best besides cheddar?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for different flavor profiles and melt qualities.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is ready when the center is set and no longer jiggly, and the cheese on top is golden and bubbling. Insert a knife in the center – if it comes out clean, it’s done.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend enough giving the Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole Recipe a try, especially if you love easy, crowd-pleasing breakfasts loaded with flavor and heart. This dish is a beautiful way to start any day, whether it’s a special occasion or just a weekend treat. Once you experience how effortlessly it comes together and how deeply satisfying it tastes, it will no doubt earn a permanent spot in your recipe lineup.