This Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole brings together savory flavors in an easy, make-ahead dish perfect for a shared brunch. It is a warm, encouraging recipe from our kitchen to yours.
Author:Lena Walker
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:50 minutes
Total Time:6 hours 10 minutes (includes overnight chilling)
Yield:8 servings
Category:Breakfast/Brunch
Method:Bake
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 loaf (about 16 ounces) day-old French or Italian bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
6 large eggs
2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons Everything Bagel seasoning, divided
4 ounces cream cheese, cut into small cubes
1/2 cup chopped cooked ham or crumbled cooked sausage (optional)
Instructions
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Spread half of the bread cubes in an even layer in the bottom of the prepared dish.
Sprinkle half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the bread.
Arrange the cream cheese cubes evenly over the cheese layer.
Top with the remaining bread cubes and the remaining shredded cheese.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and cheese in the baking dish. Gently press down on the bread to help it soak up the liquid.
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of the Everything Bagel seasoning over the top.
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap.
Scatter the optional ham or sausage over the top, if using. Sprinkle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of Everything Bagel seasoning.
Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Soaking the bread overnight creates the best texture. Do not skip the chilling step!
You can substitute Gruyere cheese for some of the Monterey Jack for a nuttier flavor.
If you are short on time, you can skip the long soak and bake after letting it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
This recipe tastes wonderful plain, but a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt on top is a nice addition.