Pizza Bagels

Pizza Bagels are the perfect combination of two beloved comfort foods—pizza and bagels! Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a fun snack for the kids, or an easy appetizer for a gathering, these Pizza Bagels are sure to delight. With a crispy bagel base topped with zesty pizza sauce, gooey cheese, and your favorite toppings, this recipe is a winner every time. Plus, it’s super simple to make and can be customized to suit any taste. Let’s dive into the details of creating these delicious bites!

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of Pizza Bagels lies in their versatility and ease of preparation. By using fresh bagels, you get a hearty base that stands up to the toppings without getting soggy. The olive oil and seasoning enhance the flavor of the bagel, while the mozzarella melts beautifully, creating a satisfying texture. This recipe allows you to use store-bought ingredients, making it a quick and convenient option for any meal.

The Essentials

• 3 bakery fresh plain bagels, evenly halved: The foundation of your Pizza Bagels.
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Adds flavor and helps crisp up the bagels.
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives a classic pizza flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon (heaping) garlic powder: Adds depth to the taste.
• 2/3 cup pizza sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade variety.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The star ingredient that pulls everything together.
• 1/3 cup mini pepperoni: Optional, but a classic topping choice; feel free to substitute with veggies or other proteins.
• Chopped fresh basil, grated parmesan, red pepper flakes: Optional ingredients to finish for added flavor and presentation.

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Baking sheet: For easy assembly and cooking.
• Parchment paper: Optional, for easy cleanup.
• Spatula: For spreading the sauce and toppings evenly.
• Oven: Preheat to ensure a crispy finish.

Make Pizza Bagels: A Simple Method

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your Pizza Bagels will bake evenly and get that lovely golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Bagels

Slice your plain bagels in half evenly. If you like a crispier base, lightly toast them before adding toppings.

Step 3: Season the Bagels

In a small bowl, mix together the extra virgin olive oil, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Brush this mixture generously onto the cut sides of each bagel half, ensuring they are well coated.

Step 4: Add Pizza Sauce

Spread about one tablespoon of pizza sauce on each seasoned bagel half. You can adjust the amount based on your preference for sauce.

Step 5: Top with Cheese and Toppings

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce on each bagel half. Then, distribute the mini pepperoni or your choice of toppings evenly over the cheese.

Step 6: Bake

Place the prepared bagel halves on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bagels are golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, you can sprinkle chopped fresh basil, grated parmesan, and red pepper flakes on top for an extra flavor boost. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Pizza Bagels!

Smart Substitutions

• Bagels: Use whole wheat or gluten-free bagels for a healthier option.
• Pizza Sauce: Substitute with marinara sauce or a spicy arrabbiata for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese: Try using a dairy-free cheese alternative for a vegan version.
• Toppings: Experiment with fresh vegetables, olives, or cooked chicken for variety.

What Could Go Wrong

While Pizza Bagels are quite foolproof, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Overloading Toppings: Adding too many toppings can result in soggy bagels. Keep it simple for the best texture.
• Burning Cheese: Make sure to keep an eye on them as they bake; cheese can quickly go from melted to burnt.
• Not Using Fresh Bagels: Stale bagels won’t give you the same satisfying texture. Always opt for fresh bagels for the best results.

How to Store & Reheat

If you have leftovers (though they may be hard to resist), here’s how to store and reheat your Pizza Bagels:

• Storing: Place leftover Pizza Bagels in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use a toaster oven for a quick reheating option.

Reader Questions

Can I use different types of bagels for this recipe?

Absolutely! While plain bagels work best for traditional Pizza Bagels, feel free to experiment with everything bagels, sesame bagels, or even flavored bagels for a unique twist.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the mini pepperoni and replace it with your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also add extra cheese or vegetarian sausage for added flavor.

Can I freeze Pizza Bagels for later use?

Yes, you can freeze them! Assemble the bagels but don’t bake them. Wrap each one tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Bake them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to eat.

How can I make these Pizza Bagels healthier?

To make them healthier, opt for whole grain bagels, reduce the amount of cheese, and load up on vegetables as toppings. You can also use low-sugar pizza sauce to cut down on calories.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to get cooking! Pizza Bagels are a fun, easy, and delicious way to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re preparing a quick meal for yourself or hosting a gathering, these delightful bites are sure to be a hit. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness of homemade Pizza Bagels. Happy cooking!