Name: Homemade Air Fryer Pizza Bagels
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: PT-486573H51M41S
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Base; 2 plain bagels; Sauce; 4 tablespoons pizza sauce; Cheese; 90-115 grams mozzarella cheese, shredded; Toppings; 16 slices pepperoni; Additional toppings of choice (e.g., vegetables, meats)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These pizza bagels are quick, easy, and versatile. The crispy bagel base, paired with gooey mozzarella cheese, savory pizza sauce, and your favorite toppings, creates the perfect mini pizza experience. The air fryer ensures that the bagels are toasted to perfection, while the cheese melts beautifully for a satisfying bite. Plus, it’s customizable — load them up with your favorite toppings, from classic pepperoni to veggies . Whether for a snack, lunch, or quick dinner, these air fryer pizza bagels are always a hit!

Ingredients

Base

2 plain bagels

Sauce

4 tablespoons pizza sauce

Cheese

90-115 grams mozzarella cheese, shredded

Toppings

16 slices pepperoni
Additional toppings of choice, as desired

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
Slice the bagels in half horizontally to create four halves.
Spread 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce evenly on each bagel half.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce.
Arrange the pepperoni slices (and any other toppings you prefer) on top of the cheese.
Place the bagel halves in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.
Air fry at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bagels are golden and crispy.
Remove from the air fryer and let cool for a minute before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 2 servings (each bagel half being one serving). The total time for preparation and cooking is around 10 minutes.

Variations

Vegetarian: Top with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or olives for a veggie-packed pizza bagel.
BBQ Chicken: Replace the pepperoni with grilled chicken and drizzle some BBQ sauce for a tangy twist.
Spicy: Add some sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Buffalo Style: Toss some cooked chicken in buffalo sauce before adding it to the bagel for a spicy, tangy variation.

Storage/Reheating

To store, place any leftover pizza bagels in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 180°C (350°F) until the cheese is melted and the bagel is crispy again.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a different flavor.

2. Can I use frozen bagels?

Yes, you can use frozen bagels. Just make sure to slice them before toasting in the air fryer.

3. Can I use store-bought bagels?

Yes, store-bought plain bagels work perfectly for this recipe. You can even experiment with flavored bagels like garlic or sesame.

4. How do I prevent the toppings from falling off?

Make sure to press down gently on the toppings so that they adhere to the cheese and sauce. The melted cheese should help them stick in place.

5. Can I make mini pizza bagels?

Absolutely! Use mini bagels or even half a regular-sized bagel to make smaller servings.

6. How long will it take to cook pizza bagels in the air fryer?

Cooking time is usually 5-7 minutes at 180°C (350°F), but this may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model.

7. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the pizza bagels ahead of time by assembling them and storing them in the fridge. Then, air fry them when you’re ready to eat.

8. Can I add different meats as toppings?

Yes, you can add other meats like sausage,for different flavors.

9. Can I use a different sauce besides pizza sauce?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other sauces like pesto, Alfredo, or even ranch dressing.

10. Can I use whole wheat bagels?

Definitely! Whole wheat bagels will work great and offer a slightly healthier alternative.

Conclusion

Homemade air fryer pizza bagels are a fun, easy, and customizable meal or snack that everyone will love. The crispy bagel base, melted mozzarella cheese, savory pizza sauce, and your choice of toppings make for a delicious mini pizza that’s ready in just a few minutes. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or want to impress your friends with a creative twist on pizza, these air fryer pizza bagels are sure to satisfy. Enjoy!