Save This savory Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate brunch hero for busy mornings. With cubes of everything bagel tucked between pockets of cream cheese, smoked salmon, tangy capers, red onion, and melty cheddar, it delivers bagel shop flavors without any stress. Whether you are feeding a weekend crowd or prepping a make-ahead morning meal, this comforting bake packs in everything you love about classic bagels—all in one dish.
When I first made this on a holiday morning, the entire house filled with the smell of everything bagels and cheese bubbling in the oven. Now, this casserole is my top request for cozy brunches.
Ingredients
- Everything bagels cubed: These give the dish substance with poppy and sesame seeds for irresistible crunch. Choose fresh but not super soft bagels for best texture
- Large eggs: The heart of your custard base. Go for pasture raised eggs if possible for richer flavor
- Whole milk: Balances richness with moisture. Use a high quality milk for best taste
- Cream cheese softened and cubed: Adds that signature bagel shop creaminess. Let it come to room temperature so it melts in
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Brings depth and sharpness. Choose a real block and shred yourself if you can
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts smooth for extra stretch. Use whole milk mozzarella
- Red onion finely diced: Offers bite and aromatic depth. Look for firm onions with no sprouting
- Cherry tomatoes halved: Burst with sweet acidity. Pick ripe but not mushy tomatoes
- Fresh chives chopped: Bring color and mild onion flavor. Fresh snipped chives brighten the flavor
- Capers drained: Little pops of salt and tang. Go for brined or salt packed capers
- Smoked salmon torn into pieces: Silky texture and smoky flavor. Use high quality lox or nova for best results
- Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning. Use flaky kosher salt for more even seasoning
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds gentle kick. Fresh cracked pepper is best
- Dried dill optional: For a herbaceous note. Use only if you love dill
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep:
- Prepare your oven by preheating to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a dab of butter or a quick spray to grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish so nothing sticks
- Layer the Bagels:
- Scatter your bagel cubes across the bottom of your dish. Make sure the bottom is evenly covered but avoid packing them tight. This helps everything soak up the custard
- Add Mix Ins:
- Nestle the cubed cream cheese among the bagels. Scatter smoked salmon over next then layer with red onion cherry tomatoes chives and capers. Distribute everything so you get a bit in every bite
- Mix the Custard:
- In a bowl whisk eggs whole milk kosher salt black pepper and optional dried dill until no streaks remain. Take your time for a smooth base
- Soak the Casserole:
- Pour your egg mixture evenly over the layered bagels. Press down gently with a spatula or clean hands until most cubes feel saturated. Pause here for at least fifteen minutes on the counter or cover and chill overnight in the fridge for even creamier texture
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle both cheddar and mozzarella evenly on top. This creates a golden melty crust
- Bake:
- Slide your casserole uncovered into the preheated oven. Bake for forty to forty five minutes. Check for a set center and deep gold on top. If the top browns too quickly tent with foil after thirty minutes
- Cool and Garnish:
- Let the casserole rest for about ten minutes before slicing so it sets up nicely. Scatter extra chives if you want a pop of color
Save My favorite part of this recipe is scattering dollops of cream cheese between the bagels Those melty tangy pockets remind me of Saturday mornings growing up when my mom always served bagels with extra thick spreads There is something nostalgic and comforting every single time I make it
Storage Tips
This casserole keeps covered in the fridge for up to three days Reheat in a low oven to revive its texture Individual portions can be microwaved for quick weekday breakfasts
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap out smoked salmon for turkey bacon or breakfast sausage if desired If you need to go vegetarian just add sautéed mushrooms or baby spinach Steer clear of bagels with sweet toppings like cinnamon sugar for this version
Serving Suggestions
Serve cut in thick squares with a dollop of sour cream or creamy Greek yogurt Fresh fruit on the side and a crisp mimosa balance the meal beautifully It also works as a hearty lunch with a bright green salad
Cultural and Seasonal Notes
Everything bagel seasoning is inspired by New York style deli bagels The casserole version is perfect for holiday brunches Mother’s Day or whenever you crave big comforting flavors Swap tomatoes for roasted butternut squash in the fall or add fresh dill and snipped spring onions to celebrate spring produce
Recipe Notes For Success
If your bagels are a day or two old they will soak up the custard better and hold their shape The overnight rest in the fridge gives the richest result Do not skimp on the resting time before baking or you risk a soggy base
Freezer Meal Conversion
To freeze bake the casserole until just set Cool completely Wrap tightly and freeze up to one month Thaw overnight in the fridge before gently reheating covered at three hundred degrees Fahrenheit
Save This breakfast casserole brings New York deli flavors to your table without fuss. Enjoy every bite, whether for a special brunch or an easy weekday meal.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate, and bake fresh in the morning for best texture and flavor.
- → Are there substitutions for smoked salmon?
Try cooked turkey bacon or sausage, or swap in sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a vegetarian alternative.
- → Which cheeses work best in this bake?
Cheddar and mozzarella melt beautifully and balance the tang of cream cheese. Feel free to use your favorite blends.
- → What side dishes complement this casserole?
Pair with fresh fruit, green salad, or beverages like mimosa and cold brew coffee for a complete brunch experience.
- → Does this dish contain common allergens?
It includes wheat, eggs, dairy, and fish. Check ingredient labels—bagels may have sesame seeds as well.