Quick Pizza Bagels (Print version)

Crispy bagel halves topped with thick pizza sauce and melty mozzarella, ready in 15 minutes for a fast snack or easy dinner.

# Ingredients:

For the base

01 - 4 plain bagels, split in half
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

For the sauce and cheese

03 - 1/2 cup (120 g) thick pizza sauce
04 - 8 oz (225 g) low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded
05 - 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan
06 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
07 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
08 - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
09 - Salt and black pepper to taste

Toppings (optional)

10 - 2 oz (55 g) sliced pepperoni

# Instructions:

01 - Arrange the bagel halves cut-side up on a baking sheet. If desired, brush lightly with olive oil. Toast in a 400°F oven for 2-3 minutes until just firm.
02 - Spread about 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce on each half. Top evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan. Sprinkle with oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
03 - Place pepperoni slices on top, overlapping slightly. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
04 - Bake at 400°F for 8-12 minutes until the cheese is melted with light golden spots and the bagel edges are crisp. Cool slightly before serving.

# Good to know:

01 - Best served warm while the cheese is still stretchy.