Bagel Breakfast Casserole Recipe: A Delicious and Hearty Meal for Every Morning
The Bagel Breakfast Casserole is the perfect solution for busy mornings or weekend brunches, combining the rich flavors of bagels, eggs, cheese, and vegetables in one comforting dish. This casserole is not only easy to make, but it’s also versatile, making it great for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re preparing it for a family breakfast or a brunch with friends, this recipe delivers hearty, satisfying bites that everyone will love. Plus, you can make it ahead of time to save valuable morning minutes!
Recipe Section
Ingredients:
- 4 bagels (any variety you prefer, preferably a bit stale for best texture)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk (or your choice of milk)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup bell peppers (any color)
- 1/2 cup spinach (or any leafy green of your choice)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the pan)
- Optional: cooked bacon or sausage (for added flavor)
Instructions:
- Prepare the bagels: Start by slicing the bagels into cubes. If the bagels are fresh, you can leave them out for a few hours to dry out slightly or toast them lightly. The slightly stale bagels work best as they absorb the custard mixture better.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined. Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and stir to incorporate.
- Assemble the casserole: Spread the bagel cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with the chopped onions, bell peppers, and spinach. Pour the egg mixture over the bagel cubes, making sure all the bread is soaked in the custard. Press the bread down gently with a spoon to ensure it absorbs the mixture.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. If you like extra cheese, feel free to add a little more!
- Bake the casserole: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the casserole is golden and set in the center.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before cutting into squares. Serve warm and enjoy!
Time and Serving
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 servings
This recipe makes about 6-8 servings, making it ideal for a family breakfast or brunch gathering. It’s the perfect dish to prep in the morning for a group or to make ahead of time for a quick meal during the week.
Storage Tips
To store leftovers, place the cooled casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes if refrigerated or 25-30 minutes if frozen. Cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250-300
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Protein: 12g
- Sugar: 4g (from vegetables and milk)
The nutritional values can vary depending on the type of cheese and bagels used. For a lighter option, use low-fat cheese or whole wheat bagels, and opt for a dairy-free milk alternative.
Recipe Notes
- Bread Choice: For the best texture, use slightly stale bagels. Fresh bagels can be dried out by leaving them out for a couple of hours or toasting them lightly before using them in the casserole.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap out or add any vegetables you like, such as mushrooms, tomatoes, or zucchini. For a richer casserole, consider adding cooked sausage, bacon, or even ham.
- Dairy-Free Option: To make this casserole dairy-free, substitute the cheese with a dairy-free version and use almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk.
- Make-Ahead Tip: This casserole is a great make-ahead meal. Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. The next morning, simply bake it for a warm and delicious breakfast.
Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect
- Even Soaking: Make sure the bagel cubes are well-soaked in the egg mixture. If they are too dry, the casserole may not bake evenly. Press the bread down gently to ensure it absorbs the custard fully.
- Crispy Topping: For a crispy topping, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking. This will give it a beautiful golden crust.
- Customize with Toppings: You can customize your casserole by adding toppings after baking, like avocado, salsa, or hot sauce for a bit of extra flavor.
How to Serve
Bagel Breakfast Casserole is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like berries or a light salad for a well-rounded meal. It also goes great with a warm cup of coffee or freshly squeezed juice. For a more indulgent touch, serve with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce.
