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These air fryer pizza bagels are my secret weapon for after-school snacks and lazy dinners. You get all the cheesy, saucy flavors of pizza but ready in a fraction of the time—plus that magic, crisp finish you only get in the air fryer.
This recipe saved me one hectic evening when my kids brought home unexpected friends—everyone was thrilled with their personalized mini pizzas, and now it is a go-to for busy nights.
Ingredients
- Plain bagels: Freshness matters for the ultimate chewy yet crisp base. Choose ones that are still soft but sturdy enough to hold toppings.
- Pizza sauce: Look for a thick, flavorful sauce and check for quality tomatoes in the ingredient list.
- Mozzarella cheese: Freshly shredded melts better than pre-shredded and gives that beautiful pizza stretch.
- Pepperoni: Use good-quality slices for a punchy pop of flavor. You can opt for turkey or veggie pepperoni for a lighter touch.
- Additional toppings: Choose vibrant veggies or cooked sausage. For best results pat veggies dry so the cheese gets bubbly not soggy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Slice the Bagels:
- Carefully slice your bagels in half using a serrated knife. Try to get four even pieces so they toast up evenly in the air fryer.
- Spread the Sauce:
- Take about one tablespoon of sauce per half and spread it from edge to edge. Make sure every bite will have saucy goodness.
- Add Cheese and Toppings:
- Sprinkle each piece with mozzarella, covering all the sauce. Layer on pepperoni and any other toppings you love.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Heat your air fryer to just under 200 degrees Celsius. Preheating helps the bagels crisp instantly instead of getting dense.
- Arrange and Air Fry:
- Set the topped bagels in the basket in one layer with space between each. Fry for 4 to 7 minutes until the cheese bubbles and develops golden spots.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let them cool for a minute before serving so the cheese sets slightly and the bagels are easy to pick up.
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My kids love creating their own versions with unusual combinations like pineapple and jalapenos. The most fun I had was watching a group of friends compete for the silliest topping combo one Friday night pizza party.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. For the best texture, reheat them in the air fryer at a lower temperature until just warmed through. Avoid microwaving unless you are in a hurry, as this can make the bagels a bit chewy instead of crisp.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap out the bagels for mini naan or English muffins if that’s what you have. If you are dairy-free, use vegan mozzarella and load up on veggie toppings. For a vegetarian twist, skip pepperoni and add sliced olives or roasted red peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your pizza bagels with a quick salad or some raw veggies for a rounded meal. If you are serving a crowd, set up a topping bar and let everyone build their own—kids especially love this interactive option.
Cultural Context
Pizza bagels first became popular in America in the late twentieth century as a fun mashup of bagels and pizza. They are nostalgic for many who grew up with them as a childhood treat or a late-night dorm snack.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free bagels?
Absolutely! Whole wheat and gluten-free bagels work just as well. Just ensure they're sturdy enough to hold the toppings.
- → What other toppings can I use?
Feel free to get creative with toppings! Try cooked vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or experiment with cooked meats like shredded chicken or bacon bits.
- → How do I avoid soggy bagels?
To keep your bagels from getting soggy, use a light hand with the sauce and ensure your air fryer is preheated before cooking.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
While they're best enjoyed fresh, you can assemble the bagels ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator, then air fry them when ready to serve.
- → How do I reheat these bagels?
To reheat, simply pop the bagels back in the air fryer at 193°C for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.