Description
These Quick & Easy Pizza Bagel Bites are a perfect snack or light meal, combining crispy toasted bagels topped with marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and your choice of toppings like mini pepperoni or veggies. Ready in just 15 minutes, they are great for busy days or impromptu gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Bagels
- 6 mini bagels (or regular-sized bagels, halved)
Sauce
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Cheese & Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices (or other toppings of choice like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, etc.)
Spices & Garnish
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare the bagels: Slice the mini bagels in half to create flat surfaces. If you’re using regular-sized bagels, slice them in half to make 12 pizza halves in total.
- Assemble the bagel bites: Arrange the bagel halves on the prepared baking sheet with the cut side facing up. Spread about one tablespoon of marinara sauce evenly over each bagel half.
- Add cheese and toppings: Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce on each bagel. Add mini pepperoni slices or your chosen toppings like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives. Sprinkle dried oregano and optional garlic powder on top for extra flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. The bagels should be lightly toasted as well.
- Serve: Remove the bagel bites from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Feel free to customize toppings based on preferences or dietary restrictions.
- Use mini bagels for bite-sized snacks or regular bagels for more substantial servings.
- If you prefer a crispier bottom, you can toast the bagels lightly before assembling.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in the oven or toaster oven for best results.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute pepperoni with vegetables or plant-based meat alternatives.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
