Name: Pizza Bagel Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 mini bagels (plain or flavored), halved; 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup mini pepperoni or sliced regular pepperoni; 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for brushing); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano; Optional toppings: sliced olives, diced bell peppers, mushrooms, cooked sausage, etc.

Why You’ll Love Pizza Bagel Bites Recipe

Pizza Bagel Bites are a fun twist on traditional pizza that takes just minutes to prepare. Whether you use store-bought mini bagels or make your own, the result is always delicious. You can personalize each one with different toppings to suit everyone’s taste. They’re freezer-friendly, making them a great option for make-ahead snacks. And because they bake quickly, they’re ideal for busy days when you need something satisfying fast.

Ingredients

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

Mini bagels (plain or flavored)
Pizza sauce or marinara sauce
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Mini pepperoni or sliced regular pepperoni
Olive oil (optional, for brushing)
Italian seasoning or dried oregano
Optional toppings: sliced olives, diced bell peppers, mushrooms, cooked sausage, etc.

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice each mini bagel in half and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Lightly brush the bagel halves with olive oil if desired for extra crispiness.
Spoon a small amount of pizza sauce onto each half, spreading it evenly.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
Add pepperoni or your favorite toppings.
Sprinkle with Italian seasoning or dried oregano for extra flavor.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are slightly crispy.
Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 pizza bagel bites (6 mini bagels halved), serving approximately 3–4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 20–25 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: Skip the pepperoni and add toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, and onions.
Meat lovers: Include crumbled cooked sausage or bacon bits in addition to pepperoni.
Cheese lovers: Mix mozzarella with provolone or cheddar for a cheesier bite.
Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy pepperoni.
Breakfast version: Top with scrambled eggs, cheese, and crumbled bacon or sausage.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free mini bagels.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Pizza Bagel Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes or until heated through. For a quicker option, microwave on high for 30–45 seconds, though the texture may be softer.
To freeze, place the fully assembled but unbaked bagel bites on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and bake directly from frozen when ready (add a couple extra minutes to baking time).

FAQs

How do I keep the bagels from getting soggy?

Use a light hand with the sauce and optionally toast the bagel halves briefly before adding toppings.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes, you can air fry at 375°F for about 5–6 minutes until the cheese is melted and the bagels are crispy.

What type of bagels work best?

Mini bagels are ideal, but you can also cut regular bagels into smaller pieces if needed.

Can I use different sauces?

Yes, try pesto, alfredo, or barbecue sauce for unique flavor variations.

Are they good for meal prep?

Absolutely. You can freeze them unbaked and cook as needed or store baked ones for quick reheating.

Can kids help make these?

Yes! They’re easy and fun for kids to assemble with their favorite toppings.

How do I make them extra crispy?

Brush with olive oil and bake directly on a metal baking sheet instead of parchment paper.

Can I add fresh vegetables?

Yes, but it’s best to chop them finely and use ones with low moisture to prevent sogginess.

What cheeses work besides mozzarella?

Try cheddar, provolone, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses.

Do I need to pre-cook meat toppings?

Yes, any raw meat should be fully cooked before using as a topping.

Conclusion

Pizza Bagel Bites are the ultimate combination of convenience, flavor, and fun. Whether you’re whipping up a quick snack, planning a game-day platter, or letting kids customize their own mini pizzas, these bite-sized treats are always a hit. With countless ways to personalize and prep ahead, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.