Bagel & Cheese Breakfast Bake
This easy bagel & cheese breakfast bake turns leftover bagels into a warm, golden, cheesy casserole. 🧀🥯 Perfect for weekend brunch, holidays, or make-ahead mornings!
If you’ve got a few leftover bagels sitting on the counter, don’t toss them—transform them into this Bagel & Cheese Breakfast Bake. This cozy, crowd-pleasing casserole layers crispy bagel pieces, fluffy eggs, and loads of melted cheese for a comforting dish that’s perfect for brunch or breakfast-for-dinner.
Not only is this recipe a smart way to reduce food waste, but it’s also incredibly easy to throw together. You can prep it in advance, let it chill overnight, and bake it fresh in the morning. As a result, it’s ideal for hosting, meal prepping, or lazy weekends when you want something warm and satisfying—without the stress.
In addition, the ingredients are flexible. Choose your favorite bagel flavor, mix up the cheeses, or even toss in cooked bacon, veggies, or sausage for extra protein and texture. No matter how you customize it, this casserole always bakes up golden and bubbly, with just the right mix of crunch and creaminess in every bite.
🔥 Why You’ll Love This Bagel & Cheese Breakfast Bake
🥯 Smart use of leftover bagels – No more stale bagels going to waste!
🧀 Loaded with melty cheese – Every bite is rich, gooey, and comforting.
🍳 Hearty and filling – Perfect for feeding a hungry family or brunch crowd.
⏱️ Make-ahead friendly – Assemble it the night before and just bake in the morning.
🔁 Totally customizable – Use your favorite bagel flavors, cheeses, and mix-ins like bacon, sausage, or veggies.
🧊 Freezer-safe – Prep in advance and freeze portions for easy weekday breakfasts.
👩🍳 No special skills required – If you can chop a bagel and whisk some eggs, you’ve got this.
✅ Kid-friendly, brunch-worthy, and meal-prep approved – It checks all the boxes.
🔪 How to Make Bagel & Cheese Breakfast Bake
Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Chop and Toast the Bagels
Slice your bagels into bite-sized cubes. Toast them in the oven for 5–8 minutes until lightly crisp. This helps them hold up better in the egg mixture.
Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings like garlic powder or dried herbs.
Layer the Bake
Spread half the toasted bagel pieces in the bottom of your dish. Sprinkle with shredded cheese, then pour over half the egg mixture. Repeat with remaining bagels, cheese, and eggs.
Let It Soak (Optional)
For best texture, let the bake sit for 20–30 minutes—or cover and refrigerate overnight for a make-ahead breakfast.
Bake Until Golden
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Serve and Customize
Serve warm, topped with fresh herbs, hot sauce, or a dollop of sour cream. It pairs perfectly with fruit, coffee, or crispy bacon on the side!
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Bagel and Cheese Bake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Fry the bacon and onion in a large skillet over medium-high heat until they are crisp and golden brown. Drain the excess grease on paper towels and set aside. Slice each bagel in half.½ Lb Bacon, ½ Cup Yellow Onion, 6 Each Bagels
- Arrange 6 bagel slices in the bottom of a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the cooked bacon and onion mixture, then sprinkle with Cheddar cheese. Cover with the remaining bagel slices.1 Cup Cheddar Cheese
- In a medium bowl, whisk eggs, milk, parsley, and pepper. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bagel layers. Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight.12 Large Eggs, 2 Cups Milk, 2 tsp Parsley, ¼ tsp Ground Black Pepper
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Uncover the chilled casserole dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden brown. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.½ Cup Parmesan Cheese
Nutrition
Notes
- Bagel Variety: Experiment with different types of bagels! Everything bagels add extra flavor and texture.
- Cheese: Use a combination of cheeses for a richer flavor profile. Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even some crumbled feta.
- Add-ins: Get creative with add-ins! Consider chopped spinach, diced bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or even cooked sausage.
- Even Layers: Ensure even layers of bagels, cheese, and bacon for consistent baking.
- Soaking: Letting the bagels soak in the egg mixture for a bit longer (up to 30 minutes) can help them absorb more flavor.
- Refrigeration: Refrigerating overnight allows the flavors to meld together and makes for easier slicing.
- Baking Time: Monitor closely towards the end of baking to prevent overcooking.
- Golden Brown: Bake until the top is golden brown and the eggs are set.
- Resting: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh herbs like chives or parsley before serving.
- Sides: Serve with fresh fruit, a side salad, or breakfast potatoes.
- Dipping Sauce: Offer a side of salsa, hot sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or gently in the oven.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!🍽️ What to Serve with Bagel & Cheese Breakfast Bake
This savory breakfast casserole is rich, cheesy, and filling—so pairing it with lighter, fresh, or tangy sides is the perfect way to balance your plate. Whether you’re hosting brunch or meal-prepping for the week, these ideas will round out your breakfast beautifully.
🥗 Fresh & Bright Sides
Fresh fruit salad – A mix of berries, citrus, or melons adds natural sweetness and color to the plate.
Sliced avocado or guacamole – Creamy and satisfying, with a dose of healthy fats.
Simple green salad – A light arugula or spinach salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast.
🥓 Savory & Hearty Add-Ons
Crispy bacon or sausage links – Add a salty, smoky side to the cheesy casserole.
Roasted breakfast potatoes – Seasoned with herbs and baked until crispy for a comforting touch.
Grilled tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms – A warm, savory vegetable side to round out the meal.
☕ Drinks That Pair Well
Hot coffee or cold brew – Bold coffee pairs perfectly with eggs and cheese.
Fresh orange juice or grapefruit juice – Bright and citrusy to cut through the richness.
Bloody Mary or mimosa – If you’re serving brunch, these classics are always a hit!
❓ Bagel & Cheese Bake FAQ
Q: Can I make this casserole the night before?
A: Yes! In fact, letting the casserole sit overnight allows the bagels to soak up the egg mixture even better. Simply assemble, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, bring it to room temperature for 20–30 minutes, then bake as directed.
Q: Do I need to toast the bagels first?
A: Toasting the bagels helps them stay firm and slightly crispy after baking. It’s optional, but recommended—especially if you’re using soft or fresh bagels.
Q: What kind of bagels work best?
A: Plain, everything, onion, and even whole wheat bagels work great. Avoid overly sweet ones (like cinnamon raisin) unless you’re going for a sweet-savory combo.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Absolutely. Let the casserole cool completely, then slice into portions. Wrap tightly or store in airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Q: How do I reheat it without drying it out?
A: Reheat covered in a 325°F oven for 10–15 minutes, or microwave slices with a damp paper towel on top to keep moisture in.
Q: Can I add meat or vegetables?
A: Definitely! Try adding cooked bacon, sausage, ham, or sautéed veggies like spinach, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Q: Is this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes, if you skip any meat additions, this bake is totally vegetarian as-is.
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