Craving a quick, kid-friendly meal or snack that’s endlessly customizable? Let me introduce you to Pizza Bagels! These bite-sized delights combine the chewy texture of a bagel with classic pizza flavors, and they come together in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, after-school snacks, or even hosting a fun pizza party, this recipe is a winner for all ages. Plus, you can tweak the toppings to match what you’ve got in the fridge!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Pizza Bagels are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. They’re quicker than ordering takeout, cheaper than frozen snacks, and way tastier than you might expect. The crispy edges, melty cheese, and tangy sauce make them irresistible. Bonus: Even picky eaters can’t resist building their own toppings. It’s a recipe that feels like a treat but won’t leave you with a pile of dishes!
Ingredients:
- 4 plain or everything bagels
- 1⁄2 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1⁄2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional toppings: pepperoni, diced bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, cooked sausage, or pineapple
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
Ingredient Prep Guide
Bagels: Stale bagels work great here! If yours are fresh, lightly toast them before assembling to prevent sogginess. Slice them in half horizontally—aim for even thickness so they cook uniformly.
Sauce: Use a thick pizza sauce. If yours is watery, simmer it in a pan for a few minutes to reduce. No sauce? Mix 2 tbsp tomato paste with 1⁄4 tsp garlic powder, 1⁄2 tsp dried basil, and a pinch of salt.
Cheese: Shred your own mozzarella for better meltiness. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-clumping agents that can make it grainy.
Toppings: Keep veggies dry! Pat down watery ingredients like tomatoes or mushrooms with a paper towel. For meats like pepperoni, blot excess grease first.
Equipment & Tools
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Cheese grater (if not using pre-shredded cheese)
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Split the bagels in half horizontally and place them cut-side up on the sheet. Spoon about 1 tbsp of sauce onto each half, spreading it almost to the edges. Sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella over the sauce, pressing lightly to help it stick. Add your favorite toppings—don’t overload them, or the cheese won’t melt properly. Sprinkle with oregano or Italian seasoning. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the cheese bubbles and the bagel edges turn golden. Let them cool for 2–3 minutes (the cheese will set slightly) before serving.
Key Details
Total Time: 20 mins (Prep: 5 mins | Cook: 15 mins)
🍽️ Servings: 4 people (2 bagel halves each)
⚙️ Equipment: Baking sheet, parchment paper, cheese grater, knife, measuring tools
Serving Suggestions
Pair Pizza Bagels with a simple side salad or garlic knots for a full meal. For parties, set up a topping bar with small bowls of ingredients so guests can customize their own. Add a drizzle of hot honey or balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch. These also make great game-day snacks—serve them with marinara or ranch dipping sauce!
Pro Tips
Bagel hack: If you only have sweet bagels (like cinnamon raisin), skip the sauce and cheese. Swap in cream cheese, everything bagel seasoning, and smoked salmon for a “pizza lox” twist!
Sauce alternatives: Use pesto for a green pizza vibe or Alfredo sauce for a cheesy white pizza. Leftover marinara from pasta night? This is the perfect way to use it up!
Crispier crust: Brush the bagel halves with olive oil before adding sauce. For extra crunch, bake them cut-side down for 3 minutes before flipping and topping.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store cooled Pizza Bagels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes (12–15 if frozen) until hot and crispy. Avoid microwaving—they’ll get soggy!
Troubleshooting
Soggy bagels? Too much sauce or wet toppings are likely the culprit. Next time, blot veggies and stick to 1 tbsp sauce per half. Bake directly on the oven rack (with a tray below to catch drips) for extra crispness.
Burnt edges? If your oven runs hot, lower the temperature to 350°F and bake for 15–18 minutes. Cover loosely with foil if the cheese browns too quickly.
Bland flavor? Boost the sauce with a pinch of garlic powder, salt, or a shake of Parmesan. Finish baked bagels with fresh basil or a sprinkle of flaky salt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use gluten-free bagels?
Absolutely! Just check that they’re sturdy enough to hold toppings. Gluten-free bagels can be denser, so bake them an extra 2–3 minutes if needed.
Can I freeze these before baking?
Yes! Assemble the Pizza Bagels (without baking), then freeze until solid. Wrap individually in foil and store for up to 1 month. Bake straight from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the cook time.
How do I keep the cheese from sliding off?
Press toppings lightly into the sauce or add a thin layer of cheese under heavier items like pepperoni. Let them cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Pizza Bagels
Ingredients
- 4 plain or everything bagels
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce store-bought or homemade
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional toppings: pepperoni diced bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, cooked sausage, or pineapple
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Red pepper flakes optional, for a spicy kick
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Split the bagels in half horizontally and place them cut-side up on the sheet. Spoon about 1 tbsp of sauce onto each half, spreading it almost to the edges. Sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella over the sauce, pressing lightly to help it stick. Add your favorite toppings—don’t overload them, or the cheese won’t melt properly. Sprinkle with oregano or Italian seasoning. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the cheese bubbles and the bagel edges turn golden. Let them cool for 2–3 minutes (the cheese will set slightly) before serving.