If you love the bold, savory flavor of an everything bagel, you’re going to love this comforting breakfast casserole. Everything Bagel Casserole transforms the classic deli favorite into a warm, cheesy breakfast bake that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing ahead for busy mornings.
Packed with fluffy eggs, toasted everything bagels, cream cheese, breakfast sausage, cheddar cheese, and plenty of everything bagel seasoning, this casserole delivers all the flavors you love in one easy dish. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, celebrating a holiday morning, or simply looking for a satisfying breakfast, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love Everything Bagel Casserole
This breakfast casserole combines the chewy texture of bagels with rich eggs and creamy cheese for a filling meal that’s both comforting and flavorful.
Some reasons to love it include:
- Easy to prepare the night before
- Great for feeding large families
- Excellent for meal prepping
- Packed with protein
- Full of classic everything bagel flavor
- Easily customizable with your favorite ingredients
It’s a complete breakfast that tastes like your favorite bagel shop in every bite.
Ingredients
For the casserole
- 5 everything bagels, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup sliced green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Topping
- 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Additional sliced green onions
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the baking dish
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread the cubed everything bagels evenly across the bottom.
Step 2: Add fillings
Scatter the cooked breakfast sausage over the bagels.
Add the cubed cream cheese throughout the casserole.
Sprinkle with cheddar, mozzarella, and green onions.
Step 3: Make the egg mixture
In a large bowl whisk together:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Heavy cream
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Pepper
Pour evenly over the casserole.
Lightly press the bagels down so they absorb the custard.
Step 4: Let it rest
For best results, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
This allows the bagels to soak up all the flavor.
Step 5: Bake
Sprinkle the top with everything bagel seasoning.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown.
Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with parsley and additional green onions.
Tips for the Best Everything Bagel Casserole
Use day-old bagels
Slightly stale bagels absorb the egg mixture much better than fresh ones.
Don’t skip the cream cheese
Cream cheese creates pockets of creamy richness that mimic a classic bagel with cream cheese.
Cook the sausage first
Always brown the sausage before adding it to remove excess grease.
Let it rest
Giving the casserole time to cool slightly makes slicing much easier.
Delicious Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize.
Bacon Everything Bagel Casserole
Replace the sausage with crispy chopped bacon.
Veggie Lover’s Version
Add:
- Spinach
- Mushrooms
- Bell peppers
- Tomatoes
- Onions
Smoked Salmon Brunch Bake
Replace sausage with smoked salmon.
Add:
- Capers
- Fresh dill
- Red onions
This creates a luxurious brunch casserole inspired by a classic lox bagel.
Ham and Swiss
Substitute diced ham and Swiss cheese for a deli-inspired twist.
Make-Ahead Breakfast
Everything Bagel Casserole is perfect for busy mornings.
Simply assemble everything the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate.
The next morning, remove it from the refrigerator while the oven preheats and bake as directed.
It’s an excellent choice for:
- Christmas morning
- Easter brunch
- Mother’s Day
- Father’s Day
- Family reunions
- Potlucks
- Weekend brunches
Storage
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.
Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
What to Serve with Everything Bagel Casserole
This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh, lighter sides.
Try serving it with:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Greek yogurt
- Hash browns
- Roasted breakfast potatoes
- Orange juice
- Fresh coffee
- Mimosas (for brunch)
- Mixed green salad
Nutritional Highlights
Thanks to the eggs, sausage, and cheese, this casserole provides:
- High-quality protein
- Calcium
- Vitamin D
- Healthy fats for lasting energy
For a lighter version, substitute turkey sausage, reduced-fat cheese, and low-fat milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. In fact, the flavor improves after resting overnight.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Slice it into portions before freezing for quick breakfasts.
Can I use plain bagels?
Yes, but you’ll want to add extra everything bagel seasoning to maintain the signature flavor.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Definitely. Skip the sausage and load it with vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, peppers, and onions.
Final Thoughts
Everything Bagel Casserole is everything people love about a classic bagel breakfast wrapped into one warm, cheesy, satisfying bake. It’s rich, flavorful, easy to prepare, and perfect for feeding family and friends.
Whether you’re planning a holiday breakfast, weekend brunch, or simply looking for a meal-prep recipe that makes mornings easier, this casserole delivers every time. The combination of toasted everything bagels, creamy cheese, savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and signature seasoning creates a breakfast that’s comforting, filling, and bursting with flavor.
Make it once, and you’ll likely find yourself adding it to your regular breakfast rotation.
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