Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole

Rise and Shine: Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole

Start your day off right with a mouthwatering twist on a breakfast classic—our Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole! This delightful dish combines the irresistible flavors of everything bagels, crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and fresh chives for a breakfast experience like no other. Whether you’re serving up a hearty brunch for friends and family or simply treating yourself to a satisfying morning meal, this casserole is sure to impress with its deliciousness and simplicity. Join us as we explore the art of breakfast casseroles and uncover the secrets to creating this flavorful masterpiece in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

Meat:

  • 4 slices Thick-cut bacon, cut into 3/4-inch pieces

Produce:

  • 1 tbsp Fresh chives, chopped

Refrigerated:

  • 4 large Eggs

Baking & Spices:

  • 1 tbsp Everything bagel seasoning

Oils & Vinegars:

  • Cooking spray

Bread & Baked Goods:

  • 12 oz Day-old everything bagels, cut into 2-inch cubes

Dairy:

  • 2 oz Cream cheese, cut into 2-inch cubes
  • 4 oz Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Whole milk

Instructions:

  1. Preheat and Prepare:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. Cook Bacon:
    • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon pieces until crispy. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
  3. Assemble Casserole:
    • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, everything bagel seasoning, and whole milk until well combined.
    • Place half of the cubed everything bagels in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the cooked bacon, cream cheese cubes, cheddar cheese, and chopped chives. Repeat with the remaining bagel cubes and toppings.
  4. Pour Egg Mixture:
    • Pour the egg mixture evenly over the assembled casserole, ensuring that all ingredients are evenly coated.
  5. Bake:
    • Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
  6. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious flavors of your Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole!

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

  • Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before and refrigerated overnight. Simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake in the morning. Allow the casserole to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
  • Customize Toppings: Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences. Add diced bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon or substitute it with vegetarian bacon or sautéed vegetables for a meat-free version of this casserole.

Keto and Low Carb Versions:

  • Keto Option: To make this casserole keto-friendly, omit the everything bagels and use cauliflower or broccoli florets as a low-carb alternative. You can also reduce the amount of milk or use unsweetened almond milk to lower the carb content.
  • Low Carb Option: For a low-carb version, use low-carb or keto-friendly bagels or bread. Look for options made with almond flour, coconut flour, or flaxseed meal. You can also skip the bread altogether and use additional eggs to bind the casserole together.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I use regular bacon instead of thick-cut?
    • Yes, you can use regular bacon if you prefer. Thick-cut bacon tends to be more flavorful and provides a heartier texture, but any type of bacon will work in this recipe.
  2. Can I use store-bought everything bagel seasoning?
    • Absolutely! Store-bought everything bagel seasoning works just as well as homemade. Look for it in the spice aisle of your local grocery store.
  3. Can I use other types of cheese in this casserole?
    • Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste. Gruyère, mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss cheese would all be delicious options.
  4. Can I freeze leftover casserole?
    • Yes, you can freeze leftover casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or store the entire casserole in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  5. Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
    • Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of this casserole. Simply sauté the vegetables before adding them to the casserole.

Indulge in the ultimate breakfast experience with our Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole—a delightful blend of savory bacon, creamy cheese, and flavorful everything bagels. Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering or simply treating yourself to a delicious morning meal, this casserole is sure to impress with its deliciousness and simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a breakfast masterpiece that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, rise and shine, and treat yourself to the irresistible flavors of our Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole today!