Pizza Bagels
When I’m in the mood for something quick, delicious, and undeniably satisfying, nothing beats a batch of my semi-homemade pizza bagels. This recipe has become one of my absolute favorites because it’s so easy to make and combines the convenience of a bagel with the classic, comforting flavors of pizza.
Love this easy recipe? You’re in the right place! Check out my BBQ Shrimp Recipe and Southwestern Eggrolls
Moreover, it’s great whether you’re whipping up a quick snack for yourself or feeding a hungry crowd, these pizza bagels are guaranteed to hit the spot. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile, allowing you to get creative with different toppings and flavors. If you’re looking for the ultimate easy snack or light meal, this pizza bagels recipe is your go-to. So I hope you all enjoy this recipe as much as do.
Why You’ll Love These Pepperoni Pizza Bagels:
Furthermore, These pizza bagels are perfect for the kids, they are super easy to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion.
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking, these pizza bagels are ready in no time, making them perfect for busy days.
- Kid-Friendly: Pizza bagels are always a hit with the kids. They can even help with assembling their own!
- Customizable: You can easily switch up the toppings to suit your tastes or use what you have on hand.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual lunch, after-school snack, or party appetizer, these pizza bagels fit the bill.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Bagels: The bagels provide a sturdy, chewy base that holds up well to the toppings. Their slightly crisp exterior and soft interior make them perfect for this recipe.
- Pizza Sauce: This adds the rich tomato flavor that every pizza needs. The sauce also helps the other toppings adhere to the bagels.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme gives the pizza bagels an authentic Italian flavor.
- Mozzarella Cheese: The star of any pizza, mozzarella melts beautifully and creates that gooey, stretchy cheese pull we all love.
- Pepperoni: These savory slices add a satisfying, meaty texture and a hint of spice that perfectly complements the cheese.
- Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but recommended for a little heat that balances the richness of the cheese and pepperoni.
- Seasonings (Bayou City and salt): Create the signature flavor profile and add a nice touch.
How to Make Pizza Bagels
Here’s how:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Bagels: Slice the bagels in half and place them cut side up on the baking sheet.
- Add the Sauce and Seasoning: Spread about a tablespoon of pizza sauce on each bagel half and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
- Top with Cheese and Pepperoni: Generously top each bagel with shredded mozzarella, then layer on the pepperoni slices. Finish with a sprinkle of parmesan and red pepper flakes.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bagels are crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and dig in!
Topping Ideas
While classic pepperoni pizza bagels are always a hit, don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next pizza bagel creation:
- Vegetarian: Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, red onion, and black olives.
- Hawaiian: Diced ham and pineapple chunks.
- BBQ Chicken: Shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, red onion, and cilantro.
- Margherita: Fresh mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves.
- Meat Lovers: Pepperoni, sausage crumbles, bacon bits, and ham.
Tips for the best Pizza Bagels
Additionally, by following these tips you’ll be able to make the best pizza bagels.
- Toast the Bagels: For an extra crispy base, toast the bagel halves before adding the sauce and toppings.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the pizza bagels ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just pop them in the oven to bake.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bagels to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
FAQ
Q: Can I use mini bagels for this recipe?
A: Yes, mini bagels work great for smaller, bite-sized pizza bagels. Just reduce the baking time by a couple of minutes.
Q: Can I freeze pizza bagels?
A: Absolutely! Assemble the pizza bagels, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, bake them directly from frozen at 375°F for 12-15 minutes.
Q: What other cheeses can I use?
A: While mozzarella is traditional, you can use cheddar, provolone, or even a mix of different cheeses for a unique flavor.
Q: Can I make these in an air fryer?
A: Yes, air fry the pizza bagels at 350°F for about 5-6 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bagels are crispy.
More Quick Snack recipes:
- Lemon Pepper Shrimp
- Crispy Homemade Fish Sticks
- Creole Crawfish Boudin Balls
- Fried Lobster Tail Corn Dog
If you loved Pizza Bagels, let me know in the comments. Follow me on TikTok and Instagram for more delicious recipes!
Pizza Bagels
Equipment
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- spoon or butter knife
Ingredients
- 3 whole bagels sliced in half
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1 tbsp italian seasoning divided
- 1 1/2 cup mozarella cheese shredded
- 30 pepperonis 5 each bagel half
- 1/2 cup parmesan grated
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Place the bagel halves, cut side up, on the prepared baking sheet.
- Optional: For a crispier bagel, toast the bagel halves for 7 minutes
- Using a spoon or butter knife, evenly spread about 1-2 tablespoon of pizza sauce on each bagel half.
- Sprinkle a pinch of Italian seasoning over the sauce on each bagel.
- Generously top each bagel half with shredded mozzarella cheese, making sure to cover the sauce entirely.
- Arrange 4-5 pepperoni slices on top of the cheese on each bagel half.
- Sprinkle a bit of grated parmesan cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using) over the pepperoni.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bagels are crispy.
- Remove the pizza bagels from the oven and let them cool slightly, Top with more parmesan and red pepper flakes, if desired, before serving. Enjoy them warm!
Video
Notes
- For a crispier bagel, toast the bagel halves before adding the sauce and toppings.
- Feel free to customize the toppings with your favorite pizza ingredients, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or use spicy pepperoni.
- These pizza bagels can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or a toaster oven before serving.
