Description
A creamy, savory egg casserole perfect for breaking a fast or serving as a low-effort brunch. The key to success is softening the cream cheese to ensure a smooth, lump-free texture.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz full-fat block cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 8 oz cold-smoked salmon (lox), chopped into chunks
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon everything bagel seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- Optional: 2 tablespoons chives, 1 tablespoon capers, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, 2 scallions thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Take the cream cheese out of the fridge and let it sit on the counter for 30 minutes until soft enough to press a finger into it.
- In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add the heavy cream, minced garlic, black pepper, and half of the chopped dill. Whisk vigorously for about a minute until uniform and slightly frothy.
- Add the softened cream cheese to the egg mixture. Whisk or use a spatula to break it apart and mix until there are no visible lumps and the base is smooth.
- Chop the smoked salmon into rough chunks or strips. Gently fold the salmon into the egg mixture, reserving a small handful for topping if desired.
- Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the egg mixture into the dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the everything bagel seasoning and reserved salmon on top. Add optional add-ins like capers or chives now.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes. The casserole is done when the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before cutting and serving warm.
Notes
The most important step is ensuring the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps. If the smoked salmon is very salty, rinse it briefly under cold water and pat dry. Do not overbake, or the texture will become rubbery. This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but check your bagel seasoning for wheat flour.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/8
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 3
- Protein: 18
Keywords: smoked salmon, egg casserole, dill, breakfast, brunch, post-fast meal, high protein, low carb, make-ahead breakfast