Imagine waking up to the mouthwatering aroma of a warm, cheesy casserole that combines the best of breakfast and brunch in one delicious dish! Our Savory Bagel and Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is not just a meal; it's an experience that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. With its creamy texture and delightful flavors, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for lazy weekends or special gatherings. In just one hour, you can whip up a dish that serves eight, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Ready to elevate your breakfast game? Let’s dive into the recipe that will transform your mornings!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 6 bagels, cut into cubes
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chives for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined and smooth.
- Cut the bagels into 1-inch cubes, ensuring they are roughly uniform in size for even cooking and texture.
- Spread the softened cream cheese in an even layer across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange the bagel cubes over the cream cheese layer, distributing them evenly to create a consistent base.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture slowly over the bagel cubes, ensuring all pieces are moistened and absorbing the liquid.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly across the top of the casserole for added flavor and golden-brown topping.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes to allow the eggs to set and bagels to absorb the liquid.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes to allow it to set and cool slightly.
- Garnish with freshly chopped chives before serving. Slice into portions and serve warm.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bagels: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh, slightly stale bagels. They hold up better in the casserole and absorb the egg mixture beautifully.
- Cream Cheese Layering: Make sure to spread the softened cream cheese evenly at the bottom of the baking dish. This not only adds creaminess but also creates a delicious base that complements the bagels.
- Even Distribution: When cutting the bagels, aim for uniform 1-inch cubes. This ensures they cook evenly and soak up the egg mixture perfectly.
- Let It Soak: For an even richer flavor, consider letting the assembled casserole sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour before baking. This allows the bagels to absorb more of the egg mixture.
- Cover for Moisture: Don’t skip covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking. This helps the eggs set without drying out the top. Remove the foil for the last 15 minutes to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of freshly chopped chives not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the savory flavor profile of the casserole.
- Serve Warm: This casserole is best enjoyed warm, so slice and serve it right after it has cooled slightly for the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 300kcal
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 17g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 140mg
