Delicious Sausage Bagel Breakfast Casserole Recipe

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Sausage Bagel Breakfast Casserole is a delightful dish that transforms your favorite egg and cheese bagel sandwich into a delicious, make-ahead breakfast casserole. Imagine waking up to the comforting aroma of baked sausage, eggs, and bagels merging together. This casserole is not just an ordinary breakfast; it’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weekend brunch. The combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and tender bagels creates a breakfast experience that will leave everyone craving more.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Bagel Breakfast Casserole

This sausage breakfast casserole is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for busy mornings or brunch gatherings. Second, the flavors meld beautifully, ensuring every bite is delicious. Third, it’s a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite vegetables and cheeses, enhancing its appeal. Fourth, this casserole is perfect for feeding a group, making it ideal for family gatherings. Fifth, it can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests. Lastly, it’s a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love, especially kids. This dish exemplifies why choosing a bagel casserole for breakfast is such a smart idea!

Ingredients for Sausage Bagel Breakfast Casserole

Gather these items:

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
1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 pound breakfast sausage (sage-flavored recommended)
1 red bell pepper, diced (about 1 cup)
1 small yellow onion, peeled and diced (about 1 cup)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, divided
3 cups (8 ounces) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded and divided

How to Make Sausage Bagel Breakfast Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Lightly grease or butter a 13 x 9-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking during baking.
Step 2: Using a serrated bread knife, cut each bagel into bite-size pieces by halving vertically, then cutting each half into fourths, forming pieces about an inch or smaller.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk eggs, half-and-half, salt, and pepper until smooth with no visible yolks. Add bagel pieces and toss gently to coat. Let the bagels soak while preparing other ingredients.
Step 4: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add breakfast sausage and break into small chunks about the size of pistachios. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Make a well in the sausage mixture, add diced red bell pepper and onion. Stir and cook until the vegetables are soft and glossy, about 3 to 4 minutes. Drain excess fat through a colander and let the mixture cool for 5 minutes.
Step 6: Add the cooled sausage and veggie mix, 1 tablespoon chopped parsley, and 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese to the bagel and egg mixture. Toss gently to combine everything evenly.
Step 7: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
Step 8: Remove the foil carefully, then bake for an additional 25 minutes or until the center is set (no longer jiggling) and the top surface is golden brown.
Step 9: Immediately after removing from the oven, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese and remaining parsley on top. Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Sausage Bagel Breakfast Casserole

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a comforting weekend brunch.
Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator overnight.
For a healthier option, consider using turkey sausage or gluten-free bagels.
Experiment with different vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Sausage Bagel Breakfast Casserole

This cheesy sausage bagel bake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for those who like a little kick. For a complete brunch experience, consider adding a mimosa or coffee to the table. This breakfast casserole with sausage will not disappoint!

How to Store and Reheat Sausage Bagel Breakfast Casserole

To store leftovers, simply cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It’s best consumed within 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. This makes it an ideal easy sausage bagel casserole recipe for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Sausage Bagel Breakfast Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Sausage Bagel Breakfast Casserole?

The secret lies in letting the bagels soak in the egg mixture, allowing them to absorb moisture and flavor. This creates a deliciously moist texture throughout the breakfast casserole with sausage and bagels.

Can I make Sausage Bagel Breakfast Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This overnight sausage bagel breakfast casserole can be prepared the night before. Just follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate overnight.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sausage Bagel Breakfast Casserole?

To avoid dryness, ensure the bagels soak adequately, and don’t overbake. Checking for doneness and removing it from the oven when set will help maintain moisture in the casserole.

Variations of Sausage Bagel Breakfast Casserole You Can Try

There are several delicious variations you can explore! For a kid-friendly sausage bagel casserole, consider using mild sausage and adding in some shredded cheese. Alternatively, you can create a sausage and cream cheese bagel casserole by mixing in cream cheese for extra creaminess. For a healthier twist, substitute the bagels with whole grain or gluten-free options. You can also try different meats like ham or bacon for a fun twist on the classic dish!