Air Fryer Pizza Bagels — Get ready to transform your snack time with a fun, delicious twist that’s sure to delight everyone in the family: Air Fryer Homemade Pizza Bagels! 🍕🥯

Perfect for quick lunches, satisfying snacks, or even a customizable dinner option, these pizza bagels are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and topped with all your favorite pizza fixings. 

Air Fryer Pizza Bagels
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Using the air fryer speeds up the cooking process and ensures a perfect golden finish without turning on the oven.

So, grab your bagels, sauce, cheese, and toppings, and let’s get creative in the kitchen. Stay tuned for the full recipe and step-by-step instructions to make these irresistible air fryer pizza bagels at home. Your new go-to for a quick and tasty meal is just moments away! 

Easy Air Fryer Pizza Bagels

Dive into the delightful world of Easy Air Fryer Pizza Bagels, a quick and effortless way to satisfy those pizza cravings without making dough from scratch. This ingenious recipe combines the crispiness of toasted bagels with the savory goodness of pizza toppings, all perfectly cooked in the air fryer’s circulating heat. Whether you’re whipping up a quick lunch, looking for a snack to share during game night, or wanting to involve the kids in a fun cooking activity, air fryer pizza bagels are the way to go. The air fryer ensures that each bagel has a crispy edge and a warm, soft center, topped with melty cheese, robust marinara sauce, and all your favorite pizza toppings, from pepperoni to bell peppers and onions.

What sets this method apart is not just the speed and convenience but also the versatility it offers. You can customize each bagel half to suit individual tastes, making it a hit among both adults and kids. Cooking with the air fryer means less cleanup and no need to heat up your entire kitchen, which is especially appreciated during warmer months. Easy Air Fryer Pizza Bagels offer a delicious twist on classic comfort food and open up a new avenue for creative, customizable cooking that’s sure to bring smiles to the dinner table.

Air Fryer Pizza Bagels

Why You Will Love Making Pizza Bagels In Air Fryer

  • Quick and Easy Preparation: Air fryers heat up quickly and cook food faster than traditional ovens, meaning you can enjoy crispy, delicious pizza bagels in just minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules. A quick weeknight dinner that’s family-friendly and easy enough for the whole family to enjoy! It’s a great alternative to pizza night!
  • Crispy on the Outside, Soft on the Inside: The air fryer’s circulating hot air ensures your pizza bagels are perfectly crispy on the outside while keeping the inside soft and chewy, delivering the ideal texture.
  • Customizable Toppings: Whether you prefer classic toppings or like to experiment, air frying pizza bagels allows for complete customization, catering to all dietary preferences and taste buds.
  • Minimal Cleanup: Unlike traditional pizza-making that can leave a mess, air frying pizza bagels requires minimal cleanup, with most air fryer baskets being non-stick and dishwasher safe.
  • Healthier Option: Air frying requires less oil than traditional frying methods, making pizza bagels a healthier option without sacrificing taste or texture.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a quick snack, a fun dinner, or a party appetizer, pizza bagels made in an air fryer are versatile and suited for any gathering, delighting guests of all ages.
  • Kid-Friendly Cooking Activity: Making pizza bagels is an easy and fun way to get kids involved in the kitchen, allowing them to customize their creations and develop an interest in cooking. A delicious snack, or an after-school snack, or a great lunch!
  • Year-Round Convenience: The air fryer offers a way to make pizza bagels without heating up the kitchen, making it a go-to cooking method regardless of the season or weather.

These points highlight why making pizza bagels in an air fryer is a delightful and practical choice for anyone looking to enjoy a classic favorite with less fuss and more flavor.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Pizza Bagels

Dive into the world of delicious and easy-to-make snacks with Air Fryer Pizza Bagels, where convenience meets flavor in every bite. This simple recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a mouth-watering treat perfect for any time of the day, making it a surefire hit for both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Pizza Bagels

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

  • Bagels: The base of your pizza, plain or whole wheat bagels are sliced in half to create the perfect canvas for your toppings. Choose fresh bagels for the best results, as they provide a crispy exterior and a soft interior once air-fried. For a gluten free version, use gluten-free bagels.
  • Pizza Sauce: This rich and savory sauce acts as the crucial layer that brings the flavors together, infusing your pizza bagels with classic Italian seasoning. Opt for your favorite brand or homemade sauce for a personalized touch.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully, creating a gooey and stretchy topping that’s essential for any pizza. Its mild flavor complements the sauce and bagel without overpowering other toppings.
  • Pepperoni: Adds a spicy and slightly smoky flavor to your pizza bagels, making them irresistibly appealing to meat lovers. You can adjust the quantity based on your preference for spice and richness.
  • Vegetables: Customize your pizza bagels with a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or olives for added crunch, color, and nutrition. This not only enhances the taste but also increases the health quotient of your snack.
  • Italian Seasoning: A sprinkle of Italian seasoning over the top adds an aromatic herb flavor that ties all the components together, giving your pizza bagels an authentic pizzeria touch.
  • Olive Oil (Optional): A light drizzle of olive oil over the assembled pizza bagels before air frying can help to crisp the edges and add a subtle richness to the crust.

With these simple ingredients, you’re all set to create Air Fryer Pizza Bagels that are sure to become a staple in your snack repertoire.

How To Make Pizza Bagels In Air Fryer

Making pizza bagels in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy your favorite pizza flavors with a fun twist. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating these tasty treats:

How To Make Pizza Bagels In Air Fryer
  • Prep the Bagels:
    • Start by slicing the bagels in half if they aren’t already pre-sliced. This will give you 8 pieces to work with.
How To Make Pizza Bagels In Air Fryer
  • Add Pizza Sauce:
    • Spread a generous amount of pizza sauce on each bagel half. Be sure to cover the surface but avoid making it too soggy.
  • Add Cheese:
    • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce on each bagel half. The cheese acts as a delicious glue for other toppings, so be generous.
  • Add Toppings:
    • Place your favorite toppings, such as pepperoni and vegetables, on top of the cheese. Customize each piece to suit individual tastes.
How To Make Pizza Bagels In Air Fryer
  • Season:
    • Lightly sprinkle Italian seasoning over the toppings for an extra flavor boost. This step is optional but recommended for that authentic pizza taste.
  • Preheat the Air Fryer:
    • Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees F (190°C) for 2-3 minutes. This ensures a crispy base and evenly melted cheese.
  • Air Fry:
    • Place uncooked bagels in the air fryer basket. If needed, brush a light coating of olive oil on the bagel edges to enhance crispiness. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding.
    • Set cook time for 5-6 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bagels are crispy.
  • Serve:
    • Carefully remove the pizza bagels from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two before serving. This short wait makes them easier to handle and allows flavors to meld.

Enjoy your air fryer pizza bagels hot, with a side of extra pizza sauce for dipping if desired. This recipe is perfect for quick lunches, easy dinners, or as a fun snack during game nights and parties. It’s a versatile dish that’s sure to please everyone!

Air Fryer Pizza Bagels (6)

Pro Tips Easy Pizza Bagels

  • Dense Bagels for Base: Choose denser bagels as they provide a sturdy base that holds up well under the weight of the toppings and sauce, preventing sogginess.
  • Moderate Sauce Application: Apply the pizza sauce,  alfredo sauce, or leftover pasta sauce sparingly to avoid making the bagel base soggy; a thin, even layer is all you need to impart flavor.
  • Pre-Cook Certain Toppings: Pre-cook toppings like raw meats or dense vegetables before adding them to ensure they’re fully cooked when the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Brush for Crispiness: Lightly brush the cut side of the bagel with olive oil before adding toppings to enhance the crispiness of the bagel’s bottom.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure the pizza bagels are placed in a single layer with some space around each for optimal air circulation, leading to even cooking.
  • Use Perforated Parchment Paper: If you’re worried about toppings falling through, utilize perforated parchment paper designed for air fryers to keep everything in place without sacrificing airflow.
  • Mix Up the Cheeses: Don’t shy away from experimenting with different types of cheese beyond mozzarella for varied flavors and textures in your pizza bagels.
  • Garnish with Fresh Herbs: After cooking, add fresh herbs like fresh basil or oregano; the residual heat will bring out their flavors without them wilting or burning.
  • Leftovers as Toppings: Look through your fridge for leftovers, which can make excellent and unique toppings for your pizza bagels, adding variety and reducing food waste.
  • Keep an Eye on Cooking Time: Air fryer models vary in power, so check your pizza bagels before the recommended cooking time to prevent overcooking.
Air Fryer Pizza Bagels

Can I use any type of bagel for pizza bagels? Yes, you can use any type of bagel for pizza bagels, from plain to whole wheat to everything bagels. Just remember, denser bagels tend to hold up better under the toppings.

How do I prevent the bagels from getting soggy? To prevent soggy bagels, use sauce sparingly and ensure any wet toppings (like vegetables) are pre-cooked or drained of excess moisture. Also, a light brushing of olive oil on the cut side of the bagel can help.

Can I make pizza bagels with frozen bagels? Yes, you can use frozen bagels. For best results, thaw them first or extend the cooking time slightly to ensure they heat through evenly.

What are some recommended toppings for pizza bagels? The beauty of pizza bagels is their versatility. Different toppings include pepperoni, sausage, bell peppers, black olives, mini pepperonis, onions, mushrooms, olives, and different cheeses. Feel free to experiment with your favorites. Some great seasonings are pizza seasoning, or garlic powder.

How long should I air fry pizza bagels? Typically, pizza bagels need about 5-6 minutes in the air fryer setting at 375°F (190°C), but this can vary based on your air fryer model and the number of toppings used. Keep an eye on them and adjust as needed.

Can I air fry pizza bagels without a tray or parchment paper? Yes, you can place pizza bagels directly in the air fryer basket. If you’re concerned about cheese or toppings falling through, you can use a perforated parchment paper liner designed for air fryers.

Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer? While not always necessary, preheating the air fryer can help ensure your pizza bagels cook evenly and achieve a crispy texture more quickly.

How can I store and reheat leftover pizza bagels? Store leftover bagels in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes to restore their crispiness.

Can kids help make pizza bagels? Absolutely! Making pizza bagels is a fun and easy activity for kids. They’ll enjoy adding their choice of toppings to the bagels, making it a great way to get them involved in the kitchen.

How can I make my pizza bagels crispy? For extra crispiness, ensure your bagels are not too soft to begin with, brush a little olive oil on the cut sides before topping, and don’t overload with sauce or toppings. Cooking at a slightly higher temperature for a shorter time can also help crisp up the edges.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

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Air Fryer Pizza Bagels

Air Fryer Pizza Bagels

5 from 3 votes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings

Description

This made for a quick lunch for the kids. I had some leftover bagels over and the other ingredients, so I thought this would be a great lunch for the kids, and such an easy one. Today I am showing you how to make Air Fryer Homemade Pizza Bagels.

Ingredients 

  • 4 bagels, halved
  • 1 cup pizza sauce
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup pepperoni slices, optional
  • 1/4 cup Your choice of vegetables, e.g., sliced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, olives
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, to taste

Instructions

  • Start by slicing the bagels in half if they aren’t already pre-sliced. This will give you 8 pieces to work with.
  • Spread a generous amount of pizza sauce on each bagel half. Be sure to cover the surface but avoid making it too soggy.
  • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce on each bagel half. The cheese acts as a delicious glue for other toppings, so be generous.
  • Place your chosen toppings, such as pepperoni and vegetables, on top of the cheese. Customize each piece to suit individual tastes.
  • Lightly sprinkle Italian seasoning over the toppings for an extra flavor boost. This step is optional but recommended for that authentic pizza taste.
  • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a crispy base and evenly melted cheese.
  • Place the prepared bagel halves in the air fryer basket. If needed, brush a light coating of olive oil on the bagel edges to enhance crispiness. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding.
  • Cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bagels are crispy.
  • Carefully remove the pizza bagels from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two before serving. This short wait makes them easier to handle and allows flavors to meld.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Cooking Spray
  • Parchment Paper, optional

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 272kcalCarbohydrates: 31gProtein: 13gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 29mgSodium: 713mgPotassium: 188mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 326IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 160mgIron: 1mg

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