Step 1

Grease a 9 x 13 inch casserole dish. Spread the bagel pieces evenly over the pan.

Step 2

Crumble and cook the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat until no pink remains. Stir the sausage evenly into the bagel pieces.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic, mustard, basil, and chives. Pour the mixture over the bagels. Cover with foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Step 4

When ready to bake, remove the dish from the fridge and allow it to come up to room temperature while the oven preheats to 375 degrees.

Step 5

Bake covered for 35 minutes, then remove the foil, sprinkle with cheese, and return to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes or until top is browned and cheese is melted. Let rest for 10 minutes before sprinkling with more fresh chives and serving.