Homemade Air Fryer Pizza Bagels

Transforming the kitchen into a little pizzeria is a fun way to bring everyone together and these homemade air fryer pizza bagels might be the easiest crowd-pleaser I know They deliver all the melty cheesy comfort you want from pizza with barely any prep or cleanup Just a few pantry basics and a little creativity mean dinner or a snack is ready in minutes without ever turning on the big oven

When I first tried air fryer pizza bagels I was surprised by how crisp the bagel edges got while the cheese stayed perfectly bubbly My family now asks for these at least once a week and they never get old since every batch can be a new flavor adventure

Ingredients

• Bagels: fresh or slightly stale work well and give that classic chewy crunch
• Pizza sauce: bright tangy flavor plus super easy to use Store bought works but a spoonful of seasoned tomato paste with a pinch of sugar also shines
• Mozzarella cheese: gives you the gooey stretchy topping everyone wants Use pre shredded for convenience or hand shred for extra meltiness
• Pepperoni slices: a classic choice Adds savory flavor and gets crispy in the fryer Choose one without too much grease when possible
• Other toppings: your favorites work great For the freshest result chop veggies small so they cook quickly Do not overload so each bite gets even cooking

Instructions

Prepare the Bagels:

Carefully slice your bagels in half You want each half to be as even as possible so they cook and crisp up uniformly If the bagels are extra fresh give them a gentle squeeze so they do not flatten

Sauce the Bagels:

Take your pizza sauce and spread a generous layer evenly over the cut side of each bagel half Make sure not to overload so the sauce does not make the bagel soggy Try to edge close to the crust for full pizza flavor

Add Cheese and Toppings:

Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese covering each bagel half completely Arrange pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese Add any other favorite toppings Here is where you can really make it your own

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Set your air fryer to 380 degrees F Preheating helps the bagels crisp up while keeping the cheese melty and bubbly

Arrange in Basket:

Place the topped bagels in a single layer inside the air fryer basket Make sure there is space between each so the hot air circulates well and gives even cooking

Cook the Pizza Bagels:

Air fry the bagels for about 4 to 7 minutes Watch for cheese to be bubbling and the edges golden brown Every air fryer is a little different so check at the 4 minute mark

Cool and Serve:

Let them rest for about a minute before serving so the cheese sets and no one burns their mouth These are best eaten warm and fresh for that perfect texture

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I always look forward to seeing how much gooey cheese melts around the bagel holes It is the little crispy edge that makes each bite so irresistible My favorite topping is actually a sprinkle of crushed red pepper and a few slices of pickled jalapeno which always reminds me of Saturday movie nights at home

How to Store Your Pizza Bagels

Pizza bagels keep well for up to three days in the fridge I stack cooled bagels in a container with parchment between each To reheat pop them back in the air fryer for a minute or two for that just baked taste They freeze well too Lay them flat to freeze first so they do not stick together

Ingredient Swaps and Suggestions

Swap out bagels for mini naan bread or thick English muffins if you are out of bagels Try dairy free cheese for allergies or plant eaters Turkey pepperoni or veggie sausage work in place of classic pepperoni for lighter options Homemade tomato sauce with Italian seasoning gives extra homemade flavor if you have a little time

How to Serve

I love serving pizza bagels as an after school snack with carrot sticks and ranch on the side They also make an unexpected starter for a game day party Cut into quarters with toothpicks and let everyone dip them into extra marinara Dinner for one Enjoy with a green salad and a sparkling drink

A Bit of Pizza Bagel History

Pizza bagels are actually a clever American invention Born in bagel shops as a way to offer something more exciting than a simple cream cheese topping they bridged New Yorks Jewish and Italian food cultures I think they are a testament to what happens when you let creativity run wild in the kitchen

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Pizza bagels are easy to make your own and perfect for busy nights or fun gatherings Try a new topping combo each time and make every batch a party

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prevent soggy bagels?

Spread a thin layer of sauce and avoid overloading with cheese or toppings to maintain a crisp texture.

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, try cheddar, provolone, or a blend to customize the flavor on your pizza bagels.

→ What toppings work well?

Popular options include sliced olives, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or cooked sausage.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Let bagels cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble bagels in advance and store covered in the fridge. Air fry just before serving.

→ How do I make them vegetarian?

Skip the pepperoni and use only vegetables or plant-based meats for a meatless version.