Loaded Everything Bagel Bake Recipe – The Ultimate Savory Breakfast Casserole

When it comes to cozy, all-in-one breakfast casseroles, few dishes deliver like this Loaded Everything Bagel Bake. It’s everything you love about a classic bacon, egg, and cheese casserole baked into one rich, golden masterpiece.

Perfect for lazy weekends, family brunches, or even make-ahead breakfast meal prep, this dish layers chewy bagel cubes, crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese all topped with that iconic everything bagel seasoning for a punch of garlicky, oniony flavor.

It’s hearty, balanced, and comforting exactly what the best savory breakfast casserole should be.

Why You’ll Love This Everything Bagel Bake

Unlike standard breakfast bakes, this version uses toasted everything bagels instead of plain bread, giving it an unbeatable chewy texture and deep flavor. Each cube soaks in the custard while keeping a lightly crisp edge, creating the perfect bite crunchy on top, soft in the middle, and full of flavor.

The cream cheese melts into creamy pockets throughout, while bacon and cheddar bring a smoky, salty balance. It’s an easy brunch recipe that feels gourmet but requires almost no effort the ultimate family breakfast bake that everyone will love.

Ingredients List

For the Casserole:

4 everything bagels, cut into 1-inch cubes
8 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 oz cream cheese, cut into small cubes
6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
1 teaspoon everything bagel seasoning, plus extra for topping
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons butter, for greasing the baking dish

Optional Toppings:

Chopped green onions or chives
Extra shredded cheese
Sour cream or hot sauce, for serving

For extra color and crunch, sprinkle more everything bagel seasoning before baking. This simple trick enhances the aroma and gives the dish a bakery fresh finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Toast the Bagels

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cubed everything bagels on a baking sheet and toast for 8–10 minutes, until lightly crisp and golden.

This step keeps the casserole from turning soggy and adds an irresistible chew to the final dish.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Meanwhile, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels, then crumble into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

Pro Tip: Save a teaspoon of bacon drippings to brush over the top of the casserole before baking for a richer, smokier flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. The mustard adds a subtle tang that balances the richness of the cheese and bacon.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Add the toasted bagel cubes, crumbled bacon, cream cheese cubes, and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing gently to distribute evenly.

Slowly pour the egg mixture over the bagel layers, pressing lightly with a spatula so everything soaks evenly.

Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning on top for that signature texture and flavor.

Step 5: Let It Rest (Optional for Overnight Prep)

If you’re planning ahead, cover the dish tightly and refrigerate overnight. This allows the bagels to absorb the custard completely, creating an even fluffier texture.

Otherwise, let it rest at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before baking to allow partial soaking.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Set

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden brown, the edges are crisp, and the center is set.

If it begins browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Sprinkle with chopped chives or extra everything bagel seasoning, and serve warm with sour cream, hot sauce, or fresh fruit on the side.

It’s hearty enough for a full breakfast but also perfect for brunch buffets or breakfast-for-dinner nights.

Flavor Variations

This loaded bagel casserole is endlessly customizable try one of these crowd-favorite twists:

Sausage Lover’s Bake: Swap bacon for cooked breakfast sausage or chorizo for a spicier bite.
Vegetarian Option: Use sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and roasted red peppers instead of meat.
Smoked Salmon Brunch Bake: Add flaked smoked salmon, cream cheese, and red onions for a deli-style twist.
Extra Cheesy: Mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a creamier, richer casserole.

Each variation keeps that everything bagel breakfast bake base but tailors the flavor for your morning mood.

Storage & Reheating Tips

This make ahead breakfast casserole stores and reheats beautifully.

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly in foil or freezer wrap for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm individual portions in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes, or use the air fryer for crispy edges.

Avoid microwaving too long, as it can toughen the bagel texture.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Skipping the bagel toasting: Leads to a soggy casserole. Toast first for best texture.
Overbaking: Makes the eggs rubbery. Bake only until the center is just set.
Too much salt: Bagel seasoning and bacon are salty enough; taste before seasoning further.
Uneven soaking: Press down the bagels gently after pouring in the egg mixture for even absorption.

These quick adjustments guarantee your savory breakfast bake comes out perfect every time.

Why This Recipe Works

Balanced flavor: Creamy, salty, tangy, and perfectly savory.
Great texture: Crispy top, soft center, chewy bagel bites.
Make-ahead friendly: Ideal for prepping the night before brunch.
Versatile: Customizable with meats, veggies, or cheese blends.
Crowd-pleaser: Feeds 6–8 people easily with minimal effort.

Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this everything bagel breakfast casserole hits all the right notes.

Final Thoughts

This Loaded Everything Bagel Bake is more than just breakfast it’s a full experience in one pan. With smoky bacon, melted cheese, soft eggs, and that unmistakable everything bagel flavor, it’s the ultimate comfort breakfast that feels indulgent yet approachable.

It’s simple to make, beautiful to serve, and guaranteed to become a weekend favorite. Pair it with hot coffee or fresh fruit, and you’ve got a cozy breakfast recipe that everyone will request again and again.

Once you try it, this loaded breakfast casserole will earn a permanent spot in your morning rotation.

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