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Air fryer bagel pizzas totally changed my snack game—they’re so fast and easy, and you still get all that tasty pizza goodness. Whenever I’m craving melty cheese and crispy edges but don’t want a mountain of dishes, this is what I make. Grown-ups and kids both love them!
If my kids have buddies over, this is always my go-to because everyone builds their own just the way they like it. Bagel pizzas have honestly saved my sanity on those wild busy nights—I’m always grateful for how quick and simple they are.
Tasty Ingredients
- Parmesan cheese: Not required, but the nutty flavor on top is so good. Fresher is best if you have a block of it.
- Shredded Mozzarella cheese: Can’t skip this for that gooey stretch when you bite in. I always pick the full-fat kind for max meltiness.
- Pizza sauce: My favorite part, tangy and rich. I like jarred sauce with simple ingredients, or homemade if there’s time.
- Oregano: A sprinkle brings that classic herby taste. Crushing the dried leaves between your fingers wakes up the flavor.
- Garlic powder: Helps give you that familiar pizzeria whiff. Fresh-smelling powder is always better.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Makes the edges extra golden and adds taste. If you’ve got fancy olive oil, now’s the time!
- Bagels: The bread base you crisp up in the air fryer. Plain is solid, but everything bagels add fun flavor pops. Fresh bagels work best.
Amazing Step-by-Step Instructions
- Rest and Serve:
- Let those mini pizzas cool for a minute or two so the melted cheese has time to chill and you don’t burn your tongue grabbing a bite.
- Final Air Fry:
- Put the loaded bagels back in the air fryer. Four minutes makes the cheese sizzle and turn golden. If you want it extra creamy, stop at three minutes.
- Top with Sauce and Cheese:
- Take the bagels out and spread your pizza sauce, then sprinkle on mozzarella (and parmesan if you're feeling it). Toss on any favorite toppings now.
- First Air Fry:
- Line up your bagel halves in the air fryer basket or tray. Give them three minutes—they’ll firm up and skip the soggy crust problem.
- Season the Bagels:
- Brush on some olive oil, then dust with garlic powder and oregano so every bite’s tasty.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Get your air fryer going to 370 degrees for a few minutes so things get nice and hot. That way the bagels brown up right away.
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I’m always partial to everything bagels for these—the poppy seeds and bits of crunchy garlic make each bite pop with flavor. I once made loads for a sleepover and the kids couldn’t get enough. Still their favorite snack.
Easy Storage Tips
Put any leftovers in a sealed container in your fridge, and they’ll be good for up to three days. Need to stash them longer? Wrap up and freeze for about a month. To heat, air fry or bake until everything is bubbly again.
Swaps and Substitutions
Whole wheat bagels are great if you want something a little healthier or go gluten free if you need. Try non-dairy cheese for a vegan twist, or throw on turkey pepperoni or roasted veggies to switch it up. If you’re out of pizza sauce, marinara or some pesto totally works too.
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Fun Ways to Serve
These little pizzas stand alone as the main event, but they’re also awesome with a light salad. Want to make it a party? Put out all the topping choices and let everyone pile on what they want. Cut each pizza up for perfect snackable bites at any get-together.
FAQs About the Recipe
- → Is it okay to load these up with other toppings?
Absolutely, pile on veggies, pepperoni, or anything else you’re craving before the last blast in the air fryer.
- → What gives the bagels that crunchy feel?
If you want more crunch, air fry the split bagels briefly first, then add your sauce and toppings.
- → Which cheese should I pick?
Mozzarella melts nicely, but you could toss in cheddar, provolone, or maybe a sprinkle of Parmesan for a kick.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
They taste best right from the air fryer, but feel free to set up the bagels and toppings in advance, then just air fry them when you’re ready.
- → Do I need to run the air fryer before starting?
Letting it heat up first helps you get those crisp edges, but you could skip if yours warms up fast.