Name: Bagel Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 pkg everything bagels; 7 large eggs; 2½ cups half and half; 1 tsp kosher salt; ⅛ tsp black pepper; ½ tbsp Vegetable Oil; 1 lb breakfast sausage; 1 red bell pepper; 1 small yellow onion; 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley; 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese

A hearty and delectable breakfast does not have to be a complicated affair. This breakfast bagel casserole recipe brings together the familiar flavors of breakfast sausage, fresh vegetables, and cheesy goodness, all nestled in a base of everything bagels. This is an excellent dish to prepare ahead of time, making your mornings hassle-free.

Photos of Bagel Breakfast Casserole Recipe

The recipe calls for a few ingredients that may not be typically stocked in every pantry. Everything bagels are a type of bread product topped with a mixture of poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt. They can be found in most supermarkets or bakeries. Breakfast sausage is a type of fresh sausage usually seasoned with herbs and spices like sage and thyme; it can be found in the meat section. Lastly, half and half, a mixture of equal parts whole milk and light cream, is a common dairy product found in the refrigerated dairy section.

Ingredients for Breakfast Bagel Casserole

Everything bagels: These add a nice variety of flavors and textures to the casserole because of the different seeds and seasonings on top.

Eggs: Acts as a binding agent for all the ingredients, and adds a rich taste and texture to the casserole.

Half and half: Adds creaminess to the dish, making it richer.

Kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients. Use it according to your taste.

Black pepper: Adds a little heat and depth of flavor.

Vegetable oil: Used for cooking the sausage and vegetables.

Breakfast sausage: Adds a robust, meaty flavor to the dish.

Red bell pepper: Adds a sweet, slightly smoky flavor and a pop of color.

Yellow onion: Adds a bit of sharpness and sweetness.

Fresh parsley: Gives a fresh, herby flavor and adds a nice color contrast.

Sharp cheddar cheese: Melts well and gives a tangy, creamy flavor.

One reader, Cahra Briley says:

This breakfast bagel casserole recipe is a game-changer! The combination of fluffy eggs, savory sausage, and melted cheese on top of everything bagels is simply divine. It's a crowd-pleaser and perfect for brunch gatherings. The prep is easy, and the result is absolutely delicious. Highly recommend trying it out!

Cahra Briley

Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Breakfast Bagel Casserole

How to prep the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease or butter a 13”x 9” casserole dish.

How to prep the bagels: Using a serrated bread knife, cut each bagel into bite-size pieces. Cut the bagel in half from top to bottom, then cut each half into fourths, aiming for pieces no larger than an inch.

How to make the egg mix and combine with the bagels: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth. Add the cut bagels to the egg mixture and toss to coat the bread in the liquid. Set aside to allow the bread to soak while you brown the sausage.

How to cook the sausage, onion, and pepper: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the breakfast sausage and brown it, breaking it into small chunks with a wooden spoon until it's about the size of pistachios. Once the sausage is cooked through and browned, create a well in the center of the pan and add the diced peppers and onions. Cook the mixture for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, or until the veggies are glossy and soft. Drain any excess fat by straining the mixture in a colander, then allow it to cool for 5 minutes.

How to combine the sausage, bagel, and egg mixture: Once the sausage mix has cooled slightly, add it to the bagel and egg mixture. Add 1 tablespoon of parsley and 2 cups of cheddar cheese. Toss the ingredients together to combine evenly.

How to assemble the casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and cover with aluminum foil. If making ahead, place the dish into the refrigerator overnight and bake in the morning. When ready to bake, remove the casserole dish twenty minutes prior to baking.

How to bake the casserole: Bake, covered with foil, in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, then carefully remove the pan from the oven and remove the foil. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until the middle is no longer jiggling and the surface has browned.

How to cool and serve: Remove the pan from the oven and immediately top with the remaining cheese and parsley. Allow the casserole to cool for 10 minutes before serving.

How To Make Bagel Breakfast Casserole

Want an adventurous breakfast? Well, take that egg and cheese bagel and make an exquisite bagel breakfast casserole! It’s fun, unique, and delicious.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 45 minutes

Total: 1 hour 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

6pkgeverything bagels
7large eggs
2½cupshalf and half
1tspkosher salt
⅛tspblack pepper
½tbspvegetable oil
1lbbreakfast sausage
1red bell pepper,diced
1small yellow onion,peeled and diced
2tbspfresh parsley,chopped, divided
3cupssharp cheddar cheese,shredded and divided

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F, then lightly grease or butter a 13×9-inch casserole dish.
Prep the bagels: Using a serrated bread knife, cut each bagel into bite-size pieces. I like to cut the bagel in half (from top to bottom) and then cut each half into fourths. Try to cut the bagel into pieces that are no larger than an inch.
Make the egg mix and combine with the bagels: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, salt, and pepper until no yolk is visible and the mixture is smooth. Add the cut bagels to the egg mixture and, using a large spoon or spatula, toss to coat the bread in the liquid. Set this to the side to allow the bread to soak while you brown the sausage.
Cook the sausage, onion, and pepper: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it begins to shimmer (this should take about a minute). Add the breakfast sausage to the pan and begin to brown it. Break up the sausage into small chunks with a wooden spoon until the sausage is about the size of pistachios. It should not look minced. Once the sausage has cooked through and browned (about 5 minutes), create a well in the center of the pan using your spoon. Add the diced peppers and the onions. Stir them with the sausage and cook the mixture for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, or until the veggies are glossy and soft. Drain any excess fat by straining the mixture in a colander, then allow the mixture to cool for 5 minutes. This is a great time to shred your cheese if you haven’t already.
Combine the sausage, bagel and egg mixture. Once your sausage mix has cooled slightly, add it to the bagel and egg mixture. Add 1 tablespoon of the parsley and 2 cups of the cheddar cheese. Toss the ingredients together to combine evenly.
Assemble the casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and cover with aluminum foil. Make-ahead step: At this point, you can place the dish into the refrigerator overnight and bake in the morning. Once you’re ready to bake, remove the casserole dish twenty minutes prior to baking, then proceed as follows.
Bake the casserole: Bake, covered with foil, in the preheated oven for 20 minutes and then carefully remove the pan from the oven and remove the foil. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until the middle is no longer jiggling, and the surface has browned.
Cool and serve: Remove the pan from the oven and immediately top with the remaining cheese and parsley. Allow the casserole to cool for 10 minutes prior to serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 736.89kcal
Fat: 45.57g
Saturated Fat: 21.02g
Trans Fat: 0.68g
Monounsaturated Fat: 14.66g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.97g
Carbohydrates: 45.45g
Fiber: 1.69g
Sugar: 11.34g
Protein: 36.47g
Cholesterol: 280.91mg
Sodium: 1146.31mg
Calcium: 609.74mg
Potassium: 499.85mg
Iron: 4.27mg
Vitamin A: 316.22µg
Vitamin C: 21.59mg

Mastering the Art of Breakfast Bagel Casserole

When cutting your bagels into bite-sized pieces, try to keep them as uniform as possible. This will ensure that they all soak up the egg mixture evenly and cook at the same rate in the oven. If some pieces are significantly larger than others, they may not fully absorb the egg mixture, resulting in a less flavorful and potentially drier casserole.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Breakfast Bagel Casserole

Prep ahead: You can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. This way, you can simply pop it in the oven in the morning, saving you time and effort.

Use pre-cooked sausage: To save time, consider using pre-cooked sausage. This will eliminate the need to brown the sausage, cutting down on the cooking time.

Chop veggies in advance: Chop the vegetables the night before and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will save you time on the day of cooking.

Bake in advance: If you have a busy morning, consider baking the casserole the night before and reheating it in the morning. This will save you time and ensure a stress-free breakfast.

Substitute Ingredients For Bagel Breakfast Casserole Recipe

everything bagels - Substitute with plain bagels: Plain bagels can be used as a substitute for everything bagels, although they will have a simpler flavor profile without the added seasoning.
half and half - Substitute with whole milk: Whole milk can be used as a substitute for half and half to achieve a slightly lighter texture in the casserole.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of salinity to the dish.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper, offering a milder and slightly different flavor profile.
vegetable oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a substitute for vegetable oil, adding a different depth of flavor to the dish.
breakfast sausage - Substitute with vegetarian sausage: Vegetarian sausage can be used as a substitute for breakfast sausage for a meatless alternative.
red bell pepper - Substitute with orange bell pepper: Orange bell pepper can be used as a substitute for red bell pepper, providing a similar sweet and crunchy texture.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onion can be used as a substitute for yellow onion, offering a slightly milder flavor.
sharp cheddar cheese - Substitute with Gruyère cheese: Gruyère cheese can be used as a substitute for sharp cheddar, providing a rich and nutty flavor to the casserole.

Presenting Your Breakfast Bagel Casserole

Elevate the bagel casserole: To elevate the bagel casserole, consider presenting it in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets. This will give the dish a sophisticated and personalized touch, perfect for a Michelin-starred presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the finished casserole with freshly chopped chives or microgreens to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. The vibrant green hues will provide an elegant contrast to the golden brown casserole.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies, to the presentation for a visually stunning and gourmet touch. The delicate blooms will add a touch of refinement and artistry to the dish.
Use high-quality serving ware: Opt for elegant and refined serving ware, such as fine porcelain or artisanal ceramic dishes, to showcase the bagel casserole. The choice of serving ware can significantly enhance the overall presentation.
Create a drizzle design: Before serving, drizzle a balsamic reduction or a vibrant pesto in an artistic pattern on the plate. This decorative touch will add a touch of finesse and elevate the visual appeal of the dish.
Accompany with a side salad: Serve the bagel casserole alongside a small, artfully arranged side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The vibrant colors and textures of the salad will complement the casserole and provide a well-rounded presentation.

Essential Tools for Making a Breakfast Bagel Casserole

Serrated bread knife: A serrated bread knife is essential for cutting the bagels into bite-size pieces without crushing or tearing them.
13”x 9” casserole dish: This casserole dish is the perfect size for baking the breakfast bagel casserole, ensuring even cooking and easy serving.
Large mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is necessary for whisking together the eggs, half-and-half, and seasonings and for combining the bagel pieces with the egg mixture.
Skillet: A skillet is used for browning the breakfast sausage, onions, and peppers, creating a flavorful base for the casserole.
Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is ideal for breaking up and stirring the sausage and vegetables while cooking.
Colander: A colander is used to drain any excess fat from the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture before adding it to the casserole.
Aluminum foil: Aluminum foil is used to cover the casserole dish during the initial baking to help the casserole cook evenly and retain moisture.
Oven: The oven is essential for baking the breakfast bagel casserole to perfection.

Storing and Freezing Your Breakfast Bagel Casserole

To store leftover breakfast bagel casserole, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container or tightly wrapping the casserole dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Properly stored in the refrigerator, the casserole will keep for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the breakfast bagel casserole. Once cooled, wrap the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Label the dish with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat the refrigerated casserole, cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating individual portions, microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed to your liking.
When reheating a frozen casserole, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, follow the reheating instructions for refrigerated casserole. Alternatively, you can bake the frozen casserole directly from the freezer, but increase the baking time to 45-60 minutes, or until it's heated through and the center is hot.
To maintain the best texture and flavor, avoid repeatedly reheating the casserole. Reheat only the portion you plan to consume and store the remainder in the refrigerator or freezer.

Reheating Leftover Breakfast Bagel Casserole

The best way to reheat leftover breakfast bagel casserole is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F and cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly.
Place the covered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until it's heated through. The time may vary depending on the amount of leftover casserole and your oven's efficiency.
If you prefer a crispy top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating. This will allow the cheese to melt and the top to become golden brown.
Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a slice of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for 1-2 minutes, or until it's warmed to your liking. However, keep in mind that microwaving may result in a softer texture compared to oven reheating.
If you have an air fryer, you can also use it to reheat smaller portions of the casserole. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F, place a piece of the casserole in the basket, and heat for 3-5 minutes or until warmed through and slightly crispy on top.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to check the internal temperature of the casserole using a food thermometer. It should reach 165°F to ensure it's safe to consume.
To maintain the best texture and flavor, consume reheated breakfast bagel casserole within 1-2 days of initial preparation. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Interesting Trivia About Breakfast Bagel Casseroles

The breakfast bagel casserole is a versatile dish that can be customized with different types of bagels, cheeses, and vegetables to suit your taste preferences. It's a great make-ahead option for busy mornings or brunch gatherings, allowing you to prepare it the night before and simply bake it in the morning. This casserole is a delicious and satisfying way to start the day, combining the flavors of savory sausage, eggs, and cheese with the comforting texture of bagels. It's a perfect dish for feeding a crowd or for a cozy family breakfast.

Is Making Breakfast Bagel Casserole at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this breakfast bagel casserole recipe is quite high. The ingredients are relatively affordable and can be easily found in most grocery stores. The use of eggs, sausage, bell peppers, and cheddar cheese provides a good balance of protein, vegetables, and dairy, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20, making it a budget-friendly option for a hearty breakfast or brunch. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is This Breakfast Casserole Healthy or Unhealthy?

This breakfast bagel casserole recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

The use of everything bagels, which are typically high in calories and carbohydrates
The inclusion of half and half, a rich dairy product high in fat and calories
The generous amount of sharp cheddar cheese, another high-fat ingredient
The use of breakfast sausage, which is often high in saturated fat and sodium

However, the recipe does include some nutritious elements, such as the incorporation of vegetables like red bell pepper and onion, as well as the use of eggs, which are a good source of protein.

To make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste, consider the following modifications:

Opt for whole wheat or multigrain bagels instead of everything bagels to increase fiber content and reduce refined carbohydrates
Replace half and half with a lower-fat milk alternative, such as 2% milk or unsweetened almond milk
Reduce the amount of sharp cheddar cheese or choose a lower-fat cheese variety
Use turkey or chicken sausage instead of traditional pork breakfast sausage to lower the saturated fat content
Increase the amount of vegetables in the recipe, such as adding spinach or mushrooms, to boost the nutrient profile
Serve the casserole with a side of fresh fruit to balance out the meal and add more fiber and vitamins

Editor's Opinion on This Breakfast Bagel Casserole Recipe

The breakfast bagel casserole recipe is a delightful and hearty dish that combines the comforting flavors of everything bagels, savory sausage, and sharp cheddar cheese. The use of fresh bell peppers and onions adds a delightful crunch and sweetness to the casserole. The make-ahead option makes it perfect for busy mornings or entertaining. The combination of flavors and textures creates a satisfying breakfast experience that is sure to impress family and friends. This recipe is a wonderful way to start the day with a delicious and filling meal.

Enhance Your Bagel Breakfast Casserole Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi, tossed in a light honey-lime dressing.

Vegetable Frittata: A fluffy and flavorful vegetable frittata made with sautéed bell peppers, onions, and spinach, topped with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears wrapped in crispy bacon and roasted to perfection, creating a delicious and savory side dish.

Berry Parfait: Layers of creamy Greek yogurt, granola, and mixed berries, topped with a drizzle of honey for a delightful and healthy dessert option.

Delicious Alternatives to Breakfast Bagel Casserole

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with tender beef, carrots, and potatoes, it's a comforting meal that will warm you up from the inside out.

Citrus Grilled Chicken: This zesty grilled chicken recipe is bursting with flavor. The citrus marinade adds a bright and tangy kick to the tender, juicy chicken. It's the perfect dish for a summer barbecue.

Mango Coconut Popsicles: These refreshing popsicles are a tropical treat. Made with fresh mango and creamy coconut milk, they're a sweet and satisfying dessert for a hot day.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Breakfast Bagel Casserole

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing large mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a crowd-pleasing starter.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Whip up a creamy and cheesy dip featuring spinach and artichokes for a classic appetizer that pairs perfectly with crispy tortilla chips or toasted baguette slices. This crowd-favorite is sure to disappear quickly at any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with a molten center when you dig in. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of warm and cold textures.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Create a luscious and creamy strawberry cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust. Top it with fresh strawberry slices and a drizzle of strawberry sauce for a burst of fruity flavor in every bite.

Why trust this Bagel Breakfast Casserole Recipe:

This breakfast bagel casserole recipe is a delicious and satisfying morning meal that combines the classic flavors of everything bagels with savory breakfast sausage and sharp cheddar cheese. The step-by-step instructions ensure a foolproof cooking process, and the use of fresh red bell peppers and yellow onions adds a burst of color and flavor. With a make-ahead option, this recipe offers convenience for busy mornings. Trust the combination of quality ingredients and expert techniques to deliver a mouthwatering breakfast experience.

Share your thoughts on the Bagel Breakfast Casserole Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make this dish even better!

FAQ:

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

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of bagel for this casserole. Feel free to experiment with plain, sesame, or any other type of bagel that you prefer.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this casserole the night before and refrigerate it. When you're ready to bake it, simply remove it from the refrigerator 20 minutes before baking and then follow the baking instructions as usual.

Can I substitute the breakfast sausage with a different type of meat or a vegetarian alternative?

Certainly! You can substitute the breakfast sausage with bacon, ham, or even a vegetarian alternative such as plant-based sausage or diced tofu. Feel free to customize the casserole to your liking.

Can I add other ingredients to the casserole?

Of course! This recipe is versatile, and you can add other ingredients such as spinach, mushrooms, or different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Just ensure that the additional ingredients are cooked or prepped as needed before adding them to the casserole.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Once the casserole has cooled completely, you can portion it into individual servings, wrap them tightly, and store them in the freezer for up to a month. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply thaw and reheat them in the oven or microwave.