Mornings can be hectic, but there’s something truly special about slowing down for a warm, satisfying breakfast that brings everyone to the table. That’s where this Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole shines. It’s the perfect make-ahead dish for busy weekdays, lazy weekends, or even special occasions like brunch gatherings and holiday mornings. The inspiration behind this recipe comes from the beloved flavor of the iconic everything bagel — the perfect balance of savory seasoning, toasty edges, and creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite. This casserole captures all of that comfort and flavor in one baking dish, without the need for standing over the stove or running out for bagels. It’s easy, hearty, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a breakfast lover, this casserole will quickly become a favorite in your home. It’s a complete meal that combines eggs, cheese, bread, and vegetables in a delicious, fluffy bake that’s both nourishing and comforting. Here’s why it stands out:
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Easy to Make Ahead: You can assemble it the night before and simply bake it in the morning, making it a stress-free breakfast solution.
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Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, onions, or even chicken sausage for extra protein.
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Family-Friendly: The familiar everything bagel flavor makes it a hit with kids and adults alike.
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Perfect for Gatherings: Serve it for brunch, holidays, or potlucks — it feeds a crowd and looks as good as it tastes.
This casserole transforms the flavors of a classic bagel breakfast into a hearty, no-fuss dish that everyone will ask for again and again.
Ingredients
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6 plain or everything bagels, cubed (preferably day-old)
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1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
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1 medium onion, finely diced
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1 red bell pepper, chopped
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2 cups baby spinach (optional but adds color and nutrients)
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8 large eggs
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2 cups milk (or a mix of milk and half-and-half for creaminess)
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning (plus more for topping)
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1 cup cooked chicken sausage or diced grilled chicken (optional protein boost)
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Fresh chives or green onions for garnish
Directions
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Prepare the bagels:
Cut the bagels into bite-sized cubes. If they’re fresh, you can lightly toast them in the oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes to help them hold up better in the casserole. -
Sauté the vegetables:
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and chopped bell pepper. Cook for about 4–5 minutes until softened. Add spinach and cook until just wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. -
Mix the egg base:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. -
Assemble the casserole:
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the cubed bagels in the bottom. Layer half of the vegetables and protein (if using), then sprinkle with half of the cheese and bagel seasoning. Repeat with the remaining ingredients, finishing with a generous layer of cheese and seasoning on top. -
Soak and chill:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top, pressing the bagels down lightly to ensure they soak up the liquid. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results. -
Bake:
When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 375°F. Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. -
Serve and enjoy:
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh chives or green onions and a sprinkle of extra everything bagel seasoning. Serve warm and enjoy the perfect blend of fluffy eggs, cheesy layers, and savory bagel flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Breakfast Casserole
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Use slightly stale bagels: Day-old bagels soak up the egg mixture better without getting soggy.
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Customize the vegetables: Try mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
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Add protein: If you prefer a heartier casserole, fold in diced chicken or turkey sausage.
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Don’t skip the soak: Allowing the casserole to rest before baking ensures the custard is fully absorbed, giving you that perfect soft yet structured texture.
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Make it cheesy: A mix of cheddar and mozzarella gives the casserole both creaminess and a golden crust.
Serving Suggestions
This Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole is wonderfully versatile. It’s satisfying enough to stand on its own but pairs beautifully with fresh sides and beverages.
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For brunch: Serve with a fruit salad, fresh berries, or a side of roasted potatoes.
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For a balanced breakfast: Add a light green salad with a citrus vinaigrette.
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For grab-and-go mornings: Slice it into squares, refrigerate, and reheat for quick weekday breakfasts.
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For a holiday spread: Pair with a platter of fresh fruit, yogurt parfaits, and a pitcher of orange juice.
No matter the occasion, this casserole has that “made with love” feeling that makes every bite memorable.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
One of the biggest advantages of this casserole is how easy it is to make ahead and store.
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To Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Keep it covered in the fridge until ready to bake.
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To Store Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
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To Reheat: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30–60 seconds or the entire dish in the oven at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes.
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To Freeze: You can freeze the baked casserole. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations to Try
This recipe is endlessly adaptable, allowing you to get creative with flavors and textures. Here are a few fun twists:
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Mediterranean Style: Add chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and a sprinkle of oregano.
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Southwestern Twist: Include diced bell peppers, onions, black beans, and a dash of cumin. Top with salsa before serving.
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Veggie Lover’s Delight: Load it with mushrooms, zucchini, kale, and caramelized onions for a garden-inspired casserole.
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Cheddar and Broccoli Bake: Add chopped steamed broccoli and extra sharp cheddar for a classic comfort combination.
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Smoked Chicken & Herb: Use shredded cooked chicken with rosemary and thyme for an aromatic touch.
Nutritional Benefits
This casserole isn’t just delicious — it’s balanced and nourishing, too. The eggs provide high-quality protein, while the vegetables contribute essential vitamins and minerals. Using olive oil adds healthy fats, and whole grain or multigrain bagels increase fiber content. You can also use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese to make it lighter without sacrificing flavor.
For a complete, wholesome breakfast, pair it with fresh fruit or a smoothie. It’s a satisfying way to start your day with both flavor and nutrition.
How to Make It Look Extra Special
Presentation makes a difference, especially if you’re serving this at brunch or a family gathering. Here’s how to make it visually appealing:
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Garnish: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives right before serving for a pop of color.
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Crisp top layer: Add a little extra cheese and bagel seasoning to the top before baking for that irresistible golden crust.
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Serve in style: Slice neatly and serve on a platter with colorful sides — it makes for a beautiful, inviting spread.
Why This Recipe Works
The key to the success of this Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole lies in its balance. The chewy bagels soak up the custardy egg mixture, creating a soft, flavorful interior, while the cheese adds richness and gooey texture. The vegetables bring freshness and a touch of sweetness, and the everything bagel seasoning ties it all together with a burst of savory flavor. It’s familiar, comforting, and yet feels like something special — the perfect mix of casual and celebratory.
This casserole is proof that breakfast can be both easy and impressive. You can make it for a weekday treat or a holiday brunch centerpiece — it’s versatile enough for both.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily make this casserole vegetarian by skipping the chicken sausage or any meat alternatives. Add extra vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to bulk it up and keep it filling. The rich flavor of the bagel seasoning, cheese, and eggs ensures you won’t miss the meat.
Can I use regular bread instead of bagels?
Yes, you can substitute cubed bread if you don’t have bagels on hand. Choose a hearty bread like sourdough, French bread, or multigrain to ensure it holds up well after soaking in the egg mixture. However, the bagels add a chewy texture and unique flavor that truly makes this recipe special.
Can I prepare this casserole the same morning I plan to bake it?
You can, but for best results, let it rest for at least 30–60 minutes before baking. This gives the bread time to absorb the egg mixture, resulting in a perfectly moist and flavorful casserole.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheat leftovers in a covered dish at 350°F until warmed through, or use the microwave at medium power. To keep it moist, you can sprinkle a few drops of water over the top before reheating.
Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole Everyone Will Love
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This comforting Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole transforms the classic flavors of your favorite bagel shop breakfast into one easy, crowd-pleasing bake. Perfect for brunches, holidays, or make-ahead weekday mornings, this hearty dish combines fluffy eggs, toasted bagel pieces, melted cheese, and colorful veggies in a warm, savory casserole that feels both cozy and indulgent. It’s simple to prepare, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to bring everyone to the table with smiles.
Ingredients
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6 plain or everything bagels, cubed (preferably day-old)
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1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
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1 medium onion, finely diced
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1 red bell pepper, chopped
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2 cups baby spinach
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8 large eggs
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2 cups milk (or half milk, half half-and-half for richness)
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning (plus extra for topping)
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1 cup cooked chicken sausage or diced grilled chicken (optional)
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Fresh chives or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Cut bagels into cubes. If fresh, lightly toast in the oven for 8–10 minutes to dry them out.
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In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper; cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in spinach until wilted. Remove from heat.
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In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
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Spread half of the bagel cubes in the prepared baking dish. Layer with half the vegetables, half the chicken (if using), half the cheese, and a sprinkle of bagel seasoning. Repeat layers.
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Pour egg mixture evenly over the top, pressing the bagel cubes gently to soak up the liquid. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
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When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes.
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Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until golden brown and the center is set.
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Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chives or green onions and a sprinkle of bagel seasoning. Serve warm.
Notes
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Day-old bagels work best as they absorb the custard mixture without becoming mushy.
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You can easily make this vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
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To make ahead, assemble the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
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For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and cheese or swap half the eggs for egg whites.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
