Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Pizza bagels are incredibly easy to make and require minimal prep time, making them ideal for busy days. They are highly customizable, so everyone can choose their favorite toppings. The crispy bagel base combined with melty cheese and savory sauce creates a satisfying bite every time. They are also great for kids and perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 plain bagels, sliced in half
1 cup pizza sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup pepperoni slices or other toppings
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the bagel halves cut-side up on a baking sheet.
- Lightly brush each bagel half with olive oil.
- Spread a spoonful of pizza sauce over each half.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Add your desired toppings, such as pepperoni.
- Sprinkle oregano and garlic powder over the top.
- Bake in the oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 8 pizza bagel halves, serving about 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 to 12 minutes
Total time: 20 to 22 minutes
Variations
You can easily change up pizza bagels to suit your taste. Try a vegetarian version with bell peppers, olives, mushrooms, and onions. For a meat lover’s option, add sausage, bacon, or ham along with pepperoni. Make a margherita-style version with fresh mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, and basil. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or jalapeños. You can also use whole wheat or everything bagels for extra flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover pizza bagels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bagels soft instead of crisp.
FAQs
Can I use any type of bagel?
Yes, you can use plain, whole wheat, sesame, or even flavored bagels depending on your preference.
Can I make pizza bagels ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them ahead and store them in the fridge, then bake when ready to eat.
Can I freeze pizza bagels?
Yes, assemble them and freeze before baking. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What cheese works best for pizza bagels?
Mozzarella is the most popular choice, but you can also use cheddar, provolone, or a blend.
Can I make them in an air fryer?
Yes, cook at around 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes, depending on your air fryer.
How do I keep the bagels crispy?
Toasting the bagels lightly before adding toppings helps keep them crisp.
Can I use store-bought pizza sauce?
Yes, store-bought or homemade pizza sauce both work well.
Are pizza bagels kid-friendly?
Yes, they are easy to eat and fun to customize, making them great for kids.
Can I make a healthier version?
Use whole grain bagels, low-fat cheese, and load up on vegetables for a healthier option.
What toppings can I use?
You can use pepperoni, sausage, vegetables, olives, cheese blends, or even pineapple depending on your taste.
Conclusion
Pizza bagels are a quick, versatile, and satisfying dish that brings all the flavors of pizza into a simple, handheld snack. Whether you keep them classic or get creative with toppings, they are sure to become a favorite for busy meals and fun gatherings.
PrintPizza Bagels
Crispy bagel halves topped with savory pizza sauce, melted mozzarella, and classic toppings for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
- 4 plain bagels, sliced in half
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices or other toppings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the bagel halves cut-side up on a baking sheet.
- Brush each bagel half lightly with olive oil.
- Spread a spoonful of pizza sauce over each half.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Add pepperoni or desired toppings.
- Sprinkle oregano and garlic powder over each piece.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven, cool slightly, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use whole wheat or flavored bagels for added taste.
- Toast bagels lightly before topping for extra crispiness.
- Try vegetarian toppings like peppers, mushrooms, and olives.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in oven or toaster oven to maintain crisp texture.
- Freeze assembled bagels before baking for quick meals later.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 halves
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg