Is there anything more gratifying than the aroma of a delicious breakfast baking in the oven? I think not! That’s why I’m so excited to share my favorite recipe for Bagel Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg, and Cheese. This dish is a complete game-changer for breakfast gatherings or lazy weekend brunches. Combining flavorful bagels with savory sausage, creamy eggs, and melting cheese, it’s like a party in every bite!
I made this casserole for the first time during a family reunion a few years ago. With a dozen hungry relatives milling around, I knew I had to whip up something hearty and satisfying. This casserole quickly became the star of the show, and I’ve been making it for every brunch since! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want to treat yourself to a special breakfast, this casserole will not disappoint.
What’s in Bagel Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg, and Cheese?
Bagels: The base of this casserole! I usually opt for plain or everything bagels, but feel free to mix it up with your favorite flavor.
Breakfast Sausage: I love using spicy sausage for an extra kick, but sweet or mild sausage works perfectly too. Just cook it up and crumble it before adding it to the mix!
Eggs: The star ingredient! You will need large eggs, and they give the casserole its structure and creaminess.
Milk: Whole milk is my go-to for that rich texture, but you can use any milk you prefer, including almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
Cheddar Cheese: You can’t go wrong with melty, gooey cheddar. It’s the perfect complement to the savory sausage and bagels.
Bell Peppers: Fresh diced bell peppers add a pop of color and flavor. Any color works, so use what you have on hand!
Green Onions: I appreciate the freshness that chopped green onions bring to this casserole. They are great for garnish too!
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These spices add depth to the flavor without needing extra chopping. A little goes a long way!
Salt and Pepper: Always to taste, ensuring everything is perfectly seasoned.
Fresh Parsley: An optional garnish that adds a lovely touch of color and freshness once the casserole is baked!
Is Bagel Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Good for You?
Absolutely! This casserole packs in protein and nutrients, primarily thanks to the eggs and sausage.
Eggs: A fantastic source of high-quality protein, essential vitamins, and healthy fats. They keep you feeling full longer and are easy to incorporate into breakfast.
Sausage: While it’s certainly delicious, just keep an eye on how much you consume since it’s higher in fat and sodium compared to other proteins. Choose leaner sausage options if you prefer.
Bell Peppers and Green Onions: These veggies add essential vitamins and antioxidants, not to mention they brighten up the dish!
Moderation is essential, as the cheese and bagels do add extra calories, but it’s a lovely treat for special occasions.
Ingredients
– 6 bagels, cut into cubes (any variety)
– 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
– 8 large eggs
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/2 cup chopped green onions
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
This recipe serves about 8 people—perfect for your breakfast brigade!
How to Make Bagel Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg, and Cheese?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to keep things from sticking.
2. Spread those yummy cubed bagels evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish.
3. Sprinkle the cooked and crumbled sausage over the bagel cubes, enticing everyone with that hearty aroma!
4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined.
5. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bagels and sausage, and give it a gentle stir to combine all the flavors.
6. Top with the diced bell peppers and sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top. More cheese = more yum!
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and pop it into the oven for 30 minutes.
8. After 30 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese generously over the top, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the eggs are set, and the cheese is bubbly and golden. Yum!
9. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color!
10. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty breakfast casserole. Trust me; everyone will be asking for seconds!
Breakfast Tips and Tasty Variations!
– **Make it Veggie:** You can easily add in other veggies like spinach or mushrooms, depending on your taste.
– **Cheese Variations:** Swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, pepper jack, or a cheesy blend for different flavor profiles.
– **Overnight Magic:** Prepping this casserole the night before will save you time in the morning! Just cover it and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it for an extra 10 minutes if it’s cold when it goes in the oven.
– **Serving Suggestions:** Pair this dish with fresh fruit or a side of yogurt for a balanced breakfast.
I can’t wait for you to try this Bagel Breakfast Casserole! It’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to join you for brunch. Give it a go, and don’t forget to share your experience! Let me know if you try any fun variations or special tweaks. Happy cooking!
