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Pizza bagels made in the air fryer are my favorite answer to unexpected hunger and busy weeknights. With a crisp crust and gooey cheese, these come together so quickly you will wonder why you ever bought the store kind. They make a fun meal the whole family can top their own way and are also perfect as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or after-school snack.
The first time I made these with my niece, she loaded hers with pepperoni and I went heavy on the veggies. We laughed when our cheese melted in different little puddles. It has now become our go-to rainy day treat.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Plain bagels: choose sturdy and fresh bagels for best structure so they crisp up well in the air fryer
- Pizza sauce: look for a sauce with bold tomato flavor and a touch of tang, homemade is great but store brands work well if you prefer
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: gets that perfect melty stretch so use whole milk mozzarella for richer taste
- Mini pepperoni or turkey pepperoni: these add salty depth and crisp up in the hot air frying while still being bite-sized and fun, kids especially love them
- Italian seasoning: gives that familiar pizzeria punch, use a blend with oregano and basil for the most classic flavor
- Garlic powder: a little bit goes a long way for aromatic depth, buy from a fresh jar for strongest flavor
- Olive oil spray: prevents sogginess on your bagel base and helps the edges brown nicely in the fryer
How to Make It
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Turn your air fryer to 375 Fahrenheit and let it run empty for about three minutes. This step means your bagels will crisp on contact and avoids any soggy bottoms.
- Prep the Bagels:
- Slice each bagel in half using a serrated knife to keep from squishing them. Arrange them with the cut side up on a board and then give each one a light mist of olive oil spray to encourage browning.
- Sauce the Bagels:
- Spoon about one tablespoon of pizza sauce onto each bagel half. Spread right to the edges for full coverage so every bite has flavor.
- Top with Cheese and Toppings:
- Sprinkle each with shredded mozzarella letting it fall into the center hole a little since it melts and expands. Scatter on mini pepperoni or any topping you like. Lightly dust the tops with Italian seasoning and garlic powder so each bite pops.
- Air Fry to Perfection:
- Fit the bagel halves into the basket of your air fryer without overlapping. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your fryer. Set the timer for about six minutes.
- Check and Cool:
- Peek after five minutes. When the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are beautifully golden, carefully lift them out with tongs. Let cool for two minutes before eating to avoid burning your mouth.
Mozzarella is my favorite ingredient here and the way it melts into the bagel hole always makes me smile. My family loves to have these around for sleepovers and game day so it is hard to make enough at once.
Flavor Boosters
Sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top after cooking for added color and aroma, or try a pinch of chili flakes or grated parmesan for extra kick right when they come out of the air fryer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp salad or baby carrots for a balanced lunch. Pizza bagels pair well with a bowl of tomato soup for a cozy combo. For parties, cut baked bagel halves into wedges and pop in toothpicks to make easy-to-eat bites.
Creative Twists
Swap out mozzarella for Monterey Jack or cheddar if you want a sharper or more mellow flavor. You can use whole grain or gluten free bagels to suit different diets, or try bell peppers, mushrooms, or sausage as your toppings. Use marinara sauce in place of pizza sauce if needed.
Letting these cool for a couple of minutes makes the cheese set so kids will not burn their mouths. Pizza bagels are best enjoyed fresh and hot for that perfect crunch.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → What type of bagels should I use?
Plain bagels work best, but whole wheat or multigrain can add extra flavor and nutrients.
- → Can I add different toppings?
Absolutely—try bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or olives to customize your pizza bagels.
- → How do I prevent soggy bagels?
Lightly spray the cut sides with olive oil before air frying to achieve crisp, golden edges.
- → Is it possible to make these vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the pepperoni or use your favorite plant-based toppings for a vegetarian option.
- → How can I store leftovers?
Store cooled pizza bagels in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer for best texture.