Bagel Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg, and Cheese

Take your favorite egg and cheese bagel sandwich and turn it into a make-ahead breakfast casserole instead! This Bagel Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg, and Cheese is perfect for busy mornings, brunch gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, this dish stands out as a crowd-pleaser that can be prepared ahead of time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This casserole is simple to assemble, making it ideal for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Great for Meal Prep: Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for a quick breakfast option throughout the week.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese creates a deliciously satisfying dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or cheese varieties to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or a family gathering, this casserole fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Serrated bread knife
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• 13 x 9-inch casserole dish
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Serrated bread knife: Ensures clean cuts through the bagels without crushing them.
• Large skillet: Ideal for browning the sausage and sautéing vegetables evenly.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Bagel Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg, and Cheese, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Casserole Base

• 6 (20-ounce package) everything bagels
• 7 large eggs
• 2 1/2 cups half-and-half
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

For the Filling

• 1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 pound breakfast sausage (I used sage-flavored)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced (about 1 cup)
• 1 small yellow onion, peeled and diced (about 1 cup)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, divided

For Topping

• 3 cups (8 ounces) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded and divided

How to Make Bagel Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg, and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Casserole Dish

Lightly grease or butter a 13 x 9-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cut the Bagels

Using a serrated bread knife:
1. Cut each bagel into bite-size pieces.
2. Halve each bagel vertically before cutting into fourths. Each piece should be no larger than an inch.

Step 3: Whisk Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Add the cut bagels to the egg mixture; toss gently to coat. Let it sit while preparing the sausage mixture.

Step 4: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet:
1. Heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add breakfast sausage; break it into small chunks without mincing.
3. Cook until browned (about 5 minutes).

Step 5: Sauté Vegetables

Create a well in the center of the pan:
1. Add diced peppers and onions; stir with sausage.
2. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until veggies are soft.
3. Drain excess fat from the mixture and let cool for about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Once cooled:
1. Add sausage mixture to bagel-egg mix.
2. Stir in one tablespoon of parsley and two cups of cheddar cheese until combined.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Pour everything into your prepared casserole dish:
1. Cover with aluminum foil.
2. Bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes.
3. Remove foil; continue baking for another 25 minutes until set.

Step 8: Finish Off

Remove from oven:
1. Top with remaining cheese and parsley.
2. Allow cooling for about 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy this delicious Bagel Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg, and Cheese at your next brunch or breakfast gathering!

How to Serve Bagel Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg, and Cheese

This delightful casserole is perfect for gatherings or a family brunch. It can be served hot from the oven or allowed to cool slightly for a more relaxed meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your breakfast experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve with a side of mixed berries or sliced oranges for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole.

Topped with Avocado

• Add slices of ripe avocado on top of each serving for a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the eggs and cheese.

Accompanied by Salsa

• Offer a bowl of fresh salsa for guests who enjoy a little kick. The acidity of the tomatoes balances the richness of the dish.

Drizzled with Hot Sauce

• For those who like it spicy, provide an assortment of hot sauces to drizzle over their portion.

Side of Yogurt

• A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a tangy flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile of this hearty dish.

How to Perfect Bagel Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg, and Cheese

Achieving the perfect Bagel Breakfast Casserole takes just a few key steps. Follow these tips to ensure your casserole is flavorful and satisfying.

• Use fresh bagels: Fresh bagels will absorb the egg mixture better than stale ones, resulting in a softer texture.
• Brown the sausage well: Ensure your sausage is well-cooked and browned for maximum flavor. This adds depth to your casserole.
• Let it soak: Allowing the bagels to soak in the egg mixture for at least 15 minutes ensures they are flavorful throughout.
• Don’t skip cooling: Letting your sausage and veggie mixture cool slightly before combining helps maintain the right texture and prevents curdling in the eggs.
• Cover while baking: Covering with foil initially prevents over-browning while ensuring even cooking throughout.
• Cool before serving: Allowing it to cool for about 10 minutes after baking will help it set and make cutting easier.

Best Side Dishes for Bagel Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg, and Cheese

Pairing side dishes with your casserole can enhance your brunch spread beautifully. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Fresh Green Salad
   A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing crunch alongside your casserole.

2. Hash Browns
   Crispy hash browns add texture and complement the softness of the casserole nicely.

3. Fruit Salad
   A seasonal fruit salad brings sweetness and color to your table, balancing savory flavors beautifully.

4. Roasted Vegetables
   Roasted seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini offer additional nutrients and a caramelized flavor that pairs well.

5. Toast or English Muffins
   Serve alongside buttered toast or English muffins for those who enjoy something crispy with their meal.

6. Breakfast Potatoes
   Seasoned breakfast potatoes are hearty and filling; they make an excellent pairing for any breakfast spread.

7. Chia Seed Pudding
   A light chia seed pudding can be made in advance for a nutritious option that contrasts nicely with richer dishes.

8. Smoothies
   Offer smoothies made from fruits and greens as an easy drink option that’s both delicious and healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Bagel Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg, and Cheese can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using stale bagels: Fresh bagels make a difference in texture. Always use bagels that are fresh or slightly toasted to ensure they soak up the egg mixture properly.
• Overbaking the casserole: Keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture. Check for doneness when the middle is set but still moist.
• Not allowing it to cool: Skipping the cooling time can result in messy servings. Allow the casserole to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
• Neglecting seasoning: A bland dish can ruin the experience. Make sure to salt your egg mixture well and consider adding herbs or spices for extra flavor.
• Forgetting to grease the dish: A non-greased baking dish can lead to sticking. Always grease your casserole dish or line it with parchment paper.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Bagel Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg, and Cheese in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Bagel Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg, and Cheese

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Bagel Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg, and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Cover loosely and heat for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of cheese in the Bagel Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg, and Cheese?

Yes! Feel free to mix cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavors.

How do I customize my Bagel Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg, and Cheese?

You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or swap sausage for turkey sausage or chicken sausage.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and refrigerate it overnight before baking.

How long should I bake my Bagel Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg, and Cheese?

Bake covered at first for 20 minutes; then uncover and bake for another 25 minutes until set.

Is this recipe suitable for brunch gatherings?

Yes! This casserole is perfect for brunch as it serves multiple people and can be made ahead of time.

Final Thoughts

The Bagel Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg, and Cheese is a deliciously satisfying dish perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; you won’t regret it!