This Bagel and Cheese Bake is a delightful breakfast casserole that combines the classic flavors of bagels, bacon, and cheese into a convenient, make-ahead dish. Perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings, it offers a hearty and satisfying meal with minimal effort.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• ½ pound bacon, diced
• ½ cup chopped onion
• 3 plain bagels
• 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
• 12 eggs, beaten
• 2 cups milk
• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. In a large, deep skillet, cook the diced bacon and chopped onion over medium-high heat until evenly browned. Drain and set aside.
2. Slice each bagel into 4 thin slices.
3. Arrange 6 bagel slices in the bottom of a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Evenly distribute the cooked bacon and onion mixture over the bagel slices, then sprinkle with shredded Cheddar cheese.
5. Place the remaining 6 bagel slices on top.
6. In a medium bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, chopped parsley, and pepper. Pour this egg mixture evenly over the layered bagels.
7. Cover the baking dish and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight.
8. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
9. Uncover the dish and bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the eggs are firm.
10. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and serve warm.

Nutrients

• Calories: 250 per serving
• Total Fat: 14g (17% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 6g (30% DV)
• Cholesterol: 211mg (70% DV)
• Sodium: 471mg (20% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 15g (6% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (3% DV)
• Total Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 17g (33% DV)
• Vitamin C: 1mg (1% DV)
• Calcium: 213mg (16% DV)
• Iron: 2mg (11% DV)
• Potassium: 213mg (5% DV)

History and Background

The concept of baked breakfast casseroles, including bagel bakes, has been around for years, often used as a way to prepare a substantial meal in advance. They gained popularity because of their convenience and ability to incorporate a variety of ingredients based on personal preference. Many recipes began emerging that combined elements of breakfast sandwiches and casseroles, leading to the creation of dishes like the Bagel and Cheese Bake. This recipe incorporates ingredients like eggs, cheese, and bacon, which are common in many American breakfast traditions.

While this dish may be a modern variation, the foundation of this meal lies in timeless breakfast comfort foods—bagels, eggs, and cheese—which have been staples in kitchens for generations. The Bagel and Cheese Bake is an easy way to enjoy these familiar flavors while creating something new and exciting. Additionally, its ability to be made the night before makes it an excellent option for those who prefer to prep meals in advance.

Flavor Profile

The flavor profile of the Bagel and Cheese Bake is both savory and satisfying. The base of the casserole consists of soft, chewy bagels that soak up the egg and milk mixture, providing a wonderful texture contrast with the crispy bacon and melted cheese. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and parmesan gives the dish a rich, tangy flavor that balances perfectly with the salty bacon. Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a mild, herbaceous flavor that complements the other ingredients.

What makes this recipe special is the harmony of flavors and textures. The bagels, while hearty, become soft and flavorful as they absorb the egg mixture. The crispy bacon gives the dish a satisfying crunch and a smoky undertone that enhances the richness of the cheese. Every bite delivers a mix of soft, savory, and creamy textures, making it a comforting and indulgent meal.

How to Serve the Bagel and Cheese Bake

This dish is best served warm, either straight from the oven or after it has cooled slightly. It can be sliced into squares, making it easy to serve at a brunch or breakfast gathering. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a side of fresh fruit, a light salad, or even a bowl of creamy yogurt. If you want to make it a more filling dish, you could serve it with a side of roasted potatoes or sautéed vegetables.

Because the Bagel and Cheese Bake is quite rich, it pairs well with a light beverage like coffee, tea, or freshly squeezed orange juice. The balance between the richness of the bake and the refreshing nature of these drinks helps create a well-rounded breakfast experience.

Customization and Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize the ingredients based on your personal preferences or dietary restrictions. For example, if you want to make it a vegetarian dish, you can substitute the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or spinach. If you prefer a different type of cheese, feel free to swap out the cheddar for something like mozzarella, gouda, or even a blend of your favorites.

For those who need a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free bagels in place of regular ones. There are plenty of gluten-free bread options available, and many of them hold up well in baked dishes like this one. Additionally, if you’re looking to cut down on fat or calories, you can use low-fat milk and cheese, or even opt for turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.

If you’re looking to add extra flavor, consider incorporating additional herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or even a bit of garlic powder. These subtle additions can elevate the dish and make it even more exciting for your taste buds. You can also experiment with different types of bagels—cinnamon raisin bagels would add a sweet touch, while an everything bagel would introduce a savory, oniony flavor.

Make-Ahead and Leftovers

The Bagel and Cheese Bake is an excellent make-ahead dish. In fact, it’s best when prepared the night before and allowed to sit in the fridge overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together, and the bagels soak up the egg mixture, creating an even more flavorful dish when baked the next day. Preparing it ahead of time also means you can simply pop it in the oven in the morning, making it a great option for busy mornings or when entertaining guests.

Once baked, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or cover the casserole with foil and bake it in the oven until heated through. This recipe is also freezer-friendly. If you want to prepare it in advance for a busy week, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Health Benefits

Although this dish is rich and indulgent, it provides several nutritional benefits. Bagels are a source of carbohydrates, which give you energy to start your day. Eggs are packed with protein and healthy fats, while bacon provides a dose of protein and flavor. The addition of cheese gives the dish a good amount of calcium, which is important for bone health. The fresh parsley adds some antioxidants and vitamins as well.

While this recipe is not necessarily a low-calorie meal, it can be part of a balanced breakfast when enjoyed in moderation. You can make it a bit lighter by using lower-fat cheese or opting for turkey bacon. Adding vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, would also increase the nutritional value by providing more vitamins and fiber.

Conclusion

The Bagel and Cheese Bake is a comforting, flavorful breakfast casserole that combines the best parts of a traditional breakfast into one dish. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for serving a group. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a regular weekday morning, this dish will always impress. Its rich, savory flavor and soft, cheesy texture make it a crowd favorite, and the ability to make it ahead of time makes it a practical and convenient option.