Make satisfying, cheesy pizza bagels fast. This simple recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, snacks, or kid-friendly meals, requiring minimal prep and cleanup.
Author:oliviarosewood
Prep Time:5 min
Cook Time:10 min
Total Time:15 min
Yield:8 servings 1x
Category:Snack
Method:Baking or Air Frying
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
4 plain bagels, halved
1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup sliced beef pepperoni (optional)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). If using an air fryer, set it to 370 degrees Fahrenheit.
Place the bagel halves cut-side up on a baking sheet or directly into the air fryer basket.
Spread about one tablespoon of pizza sauce evenly over the surface of each bagel half.
Top the sauce with an even layer of mozzarella cheese.
Place pepperoni slices on top of the cheese, if you are using them.
Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the toppings, if desired.
Bake in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or cook in the air fryer for 5 to 7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bagel edges are lightly toasted.
Remove from the oven or air fryer and serve immediately for gooey cheese bagels.
Notes
For a crispier bagel base, you can toast the bagel halves lightly in the toaster for 1-2 minutes before adding toppings.
Substitute mozzarella with provolone or a pizza blend cheese for a different flavor profile.
This recipe works well for party appetizer bagels or fast lunch ideas.