A baking dish of everything bagel casserole with golden toasted bagel cubes, creamy egg custard set between pieces, and a sprinkle of everything seasoning on top.
Everything bagel casserole is the easiest way to turn bagels into a cozy, crowd-pleasing breakfast. You get chewy bagel bites on top, a soft and creamy egg base underneath, and that classic everything seasoning flavor in every bite. This everything bagel casserole recipe is perfect for weekends, holidays, and make-ahead brunches when you want something that feels special but isn’t fussy.
Introduction
Breakfast casseroles are always a win because you can prep them ahead, bake, and serve. The standout trick here is letting the bagel cubes soak in the egg mixture so the inside turns custardy while the top gets golden and toasty.
Another little pro tip: use day-old bagels if you can. They soak up the custard better and bake up with the best texture. Trust me, it’s the difference between good and bakery-cozy.
This everything bagel casserole is a fan favorite because it feeds a crowd, travels well, and everyone asks for the recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Everything Bagel Casserole
- Make-ahead friendly: Perfect for brunch prep the night before.
- Family-friendly: Classic everything bagel flavor everyone loves.
- Easy weeknight prep: Stir, soak, bake in the morning.
- Great for gatherings: Feeds a crowd with minimal effort.
- Cozy and satisfying: Chewy, creamy, and flavorful in every bite.
Ingredients for Everything Bagel Casserole
Base
- Everything bagels (6, cut into 1-inch cubes): Day-old bagels work best; plain bagels work too.
- Eggs (10): The custardy base.
- Milk (2 1/2 cups): Whole milk is creamiest; 2% works too.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Adds richness; replace with more milk if needed.
Flavor and texture
- Cream cheese (6 ounces, cut into small cubes): Creamy pockets throughout.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups): Melty, savory flavor; Monterey Jack works too.
- Green onions, sliced (1/3 cup): Fresh, mild onion flavor; chives work too.
- Everything bagel seasoning (2 tablespoons): Adds that signature taste.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Extra savory boost.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Rounds out flavor.
- Salt (3/4 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Season to taste.
Optional add-ins
- Baby spinach (2 cups): Stir in for a veggie boost.
- Sautéed mushrooms (1 cup): Adds deeper savory flavor.
- Diced bell pepper (1 cup): Adds color and sweetness.
Helpful note: Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother than pre-shredded, which can be a little waxy in casseroles.
Everything Bagel Casserole Recipe Step-by-Step
- 1. Prep: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Add bagel cubes in an even layer. Scatter cream cheese cubes and half the green onions over the bagels.
- 2. Whisk: In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream, everything seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- 3. Pour: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bagels. Press down gently so the bagels soak up the custard.
- 4. Top: Sprinkle cheddar over the top and finish with remaining green onions and an extra pinch of everything seasoning.
- 5. Chill: Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes (or overnight) so the bagels soak fully.
- 6. Bake: Heat oven to 350°F. Bake uncovered 45–55 minutes until the center is set and the top is golden. If the top browns too fast, tent loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.
- 7. Rest: Let rest 10 minutes before slicing. If it looks too soft, give it 5 more minutes—carryover heat helps it set.
Tips for Perfect Everything Bagel Casserole
- Use day-old bagels for the best soak and texture.
- Press bagels down after pouring custard so everything gets coated.
- Chill before baking so the inside turns custardy.
- Bake until the center is set, not jiggly.
- Rest before slicing for clean squares.
Variations & Substitutions
- Extra cheesy: Add 1 more cup cheddar.
- Veggie boost: Stir in spinach before chilling.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Different cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack.
- Lazy version: Skip cream cheese and add extra shredded cheese instead.
Storing & Reheating
Fridge: Store leftovers covered 3–4 days.
Reheat: Bake at 350°F for 12–15 minutes or microwave in short bursts.
Freezer: Freeze slices up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven for best texture.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Fresh fruit salad or berries
- Breakfast potatoes or hash browns
- Simple side salad for brunch
- Coffee, tea, or a smoothie
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus chilling)
Yield: 10–12 servings
Category: Breakfast
Method: Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian
Reader Review: I prepped this the night before and it baked up perfectly golden and creamy. Everyone asked for the recipe.
If you make this everything bagel casserole, leave a rating and comment. Would you add spinach, or keep it classic?