Crispy & Cheesy Air Fryer Pizza Bagels – The Ultimate Snack!
Craving a quick, cheesy, and satisfying snack? Air fryer pizza bagels are the perfect solution! In just a few minutes, you can enjoy crispy bagels topped with melty cheese, zesty tomato sauce, and your favorite toppings—all with that delicious, oven-baked taste but in a fraction of the time.
Whether you’re making them for a fun family snack, a party appetizer, or even a quick lunch, these pizza bagels are fast, customizable, and incredibly easy to make. Plus, the air fryer gives them a perfectly crisp texture without drying them out!
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
Servings & Difficulty:
- Serves: 2-4 people
- Difficulty: Super Easy
The Necessary Ingredients (Possible in All Kinds of Variations)
- 4 mini bagels (or 2 large bagels, split in half)
- ½ cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional, for extra flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Favorite toppings: Pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, cooked sausage, etc.
- Olive oil spray (optional, for extra crispiness)
Alternative Ingredients:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bagels.
- Vegan: Swap regular cheese for dairy-free mozzarella and use vegan toppings.
- Low-Carb: Try using keto-friendly bagels.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or drizzle hot honey on top!
The Steps of Preparation (Possible in All Kinds of Variations)
These air fryer pizza bagels come together in just a few simple steps—no preheating an oven or waiting forever!
How to Make Air Fryer Pizza Bagels:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 2-3 minutes (optional but helps with crispiness).
- Cut bagels in half if they aren’t already. Lightly spray them with olive oil for extra crispiness.
- Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over each bagel half.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top.
- Add your favorite toppings, keeping them in a single layer so they cook evenly.
- Place the bagels in the air fryer basket in a single layer (do not stack them).
- Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are crispy.
- Let cool for 1-2 minutes before serving—cheese will be hot!
- Optional: Sprinkle with Italian seasoning or drizzle with garlic butter for extra flavor.
🔥 Tip: If using frozen pizza bagels, increase cooking time to 7-9 minutes.
Nutritional Benefits of This Recipe
These pizza bagels are not just delicious—they also offer some surprising nutritional perks!
- Good Source of Protein: Cheese and toppings like pepperoni or sausage add protein for energy.
- Calcium-Rich: Mozzarella cheese provides calcium for strong bones.
- Customizable for Healthier Choices: Swap for whole wheat or low-carb bagels for extra fiber.
- Lower Fat Option: Use part-skim cheese or load up on veggies for a healthier twist.
- Quick & Less Oil Needed: Air frying cuts down on excess oil compared to baking or frying.
Possible Additions or Upgrades
Want to take your air fryer pizza bagels to the next level? Try these fun add-ons!
- Gourmet Twist: Use fresh basil, burrata cheese, or truffle oil.
- Breakfast Style: Top with scrambled eggs and bacon for a morning pizza bagel.
- BBQ Flavor: Swap pizza sauce for BBQ sauce and add shredded chicken.
- Hawaiian Style: Add ham and pineapple for a sweet-savory combo.
- Extra Crunch: Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes or grated parmesan after cooking.
Q&A – Everything You Need to Know About This Recipe!
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the pizza bagels, then store them in the fridge. Air fry when ready.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.
Can I freeze air fryer pizza bagels?
Yes! Freeze assembled (uncooked) pizza bagels on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen at 375°F for 7-9 minutes.
Do I need to preheat my air fryer?
It’s optional, but preheating helps the bagels crisp up faster.
What if my cheese is burning?
Lower the temperature to 350°F and check them sooner.
Can I make these in a regular oven?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
How do I make them extra crispy?
Lightly brush the bagels with olive oil before adding toppings.
Can I use fresh mozzarella instead of shredded?
Yes, but pat it dry first so it doesn’t make the bagels soggy.
What’s the best way to reheat them?
The air fryer is best! Reheat at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until warmed through.
What bagels work best?
Plain, everything, or whole wheat bagels all work great!
Share & Enjoy!
If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends and family! Post a pic on social media and tag us—we’d love to see your creations!
