Is there anything better than pizza? Maybe just one thing—pizza on a bagel! These Bagel Pizza Melts take everything you love about a classic slice and pack it into a perfectly crispy, cheesy, and satisfying bite. They’re quick, easy, and totally customizable, making them perfect for busy weeknights, snack time, or even a fun family dinner.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Trust me, once you try these, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making them forever!
Why You’ll Love Bagel Pizza Melts
These little pizza bites aren’t just delicious—they’re practical, too! Here’s why you’ll want to add them to your recipe rotation:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes—perfect for busy days.
- Totally Customizable: Add your favorite toppings for a personalized pizza experience.
- Kid-Friendly: A fun, hands-on meal that kids will love to make and eat.
- Great for Any Meal: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a late-night snack.
- Crispy & Cheesy: The perfect balance of crispy bagels, gooey cheese, and flavorful toppings.
Ingredients in Bagel Pizza Melts
These pizza melts come together with just a handful of simple ingredients!
- Bagels: The base—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside. Any variety works, but plain or everything bagels are top picks.
- Pizza Sauce: A rich, tangy tomato sauce brings all the flavors together.
- Mozzarella Cheese: The ultimate melt factor! Feel free to mix in some cheddar or provolone for extra flavor.
- Pepperoni: Classic and delicious, but you can swap it for any favorite topping.
- Olive Oil: A light brush helps the bagels crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Italian Seasoning: Adds that authentic pizzeria-style flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Optional, but a sprinkle on top adds a bold, cheesy kick.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For a little heat, if you like a spicy kick.
(Full ingredient measurements are in the recipe card below!)
Instructions
Let’s break it down into easy steps so you can enjoy these in no time!
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Bagels: Slice the bagels in half and place them cut-side up on the baking sheet. Lightly brush each half with olive oil for a crispier texture.
- Add the Sauce: Spread a generous layer of pizza sauce over each bagel half. Don’t skimp—this is where the flavor starts!
- Pile on the Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the sauce, making sure every bite will be cheesy and delicious.
- Add Your Toppings: Place pepperoni slices (or your preferred toppings) on top of the cheese. Get creative!
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bagels are golden brown.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with Parmesan and Italian seasoning, and enjoy while hot!
How to Serve Bagel Pizza Melts
These are perfect as a standalone meal or paired with some simple sides. Here are a few serving ideas:
- With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad balances the richness of the pizza.
- With Marinara Sauce: Serve with warm marinara for extra dipping goodness.
- As Party Appetizers: Cut into smaller pieces for bite-sized party snacks.
- With Garlic Butter: A drizzle of garlic butter makes these even more irresistible.
Additional Tips
- Toast the Bagels First: For an extra crispy base, toast them lightly before adding toppings.
- Switch Up the Cheese: Try a mix of mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan for deeper flavor.
- Make It Healthier: Use whole wheat bagels and add veggie toppings like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Use Mini Bagels: Perfect for bite-sized pizza melts, especially for kids or parties!
- Store & Reheat: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make these in an air fryer?
A1: Yes! Cook them at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes, checking for melty cheese and crispy edges.
Q2: Can I use English muffins instead of bagels?
A2: Absolutely! English muffins work great as a substitute and have a slightly softer texture.
Q3: How do I make these gluten-free?
A3: Simply swap regular bagels for your favorite gluten-free variety.
Q4: Can I prepare these in advance?
A4: You can assemble them ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Bake them fresh when ready to serve.
Q5: What are some fun topping ideas?
A5: Try mushrooms, olives, bacon, jalapeños, pineapple, or even barbecue chicken for a twist!
Q6: Can I freeze bagel pizza melts?
A6: Yes! Assemble them, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
Q7: How do I make them extra crispy?
A7: Toast the bagels first, use less sauce, and bake them on a wire rack for better airflow.
Q8: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sauce?
A8: Yes! Just slice thin and add a sprinkle of salt and garlic for flavor.
Q9: What’s the best cheese for the ultimate melt?
A9: A mix of mozzarella and provolone creates that perfect stretchy, gooey texture.
Q10: Can I make these dairy-free?
A10: Yes! Use dairy-free cheese and a vegan-friendly pizza sauce.
Final Thoughts
Bagel Pizza Melts are proof that simple ingredients can create something absolutely delicious. Whether you’re making them for a quick meal, a fun family dinner, or a party appetizer, they’re always a hit.
Print
Bagel Pizza Melts
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1–2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cheesy Bagel Pizza Melts are a quick and easy meal, perfect for busy days or college students! Crispy bagels are topped with rich tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and fresh basil, then finished with a drizzle of chili oil for a deliciously spicy kick.
Ingredients
- 1 everything bagel, halved
- 1/4 cup jarred tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
- 6–8 pepperoni slices
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil (optional)
- Chili oil (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or preheat air fryer accordingly.
- Slice the bagel in half and spread a few tablespoons of tomato sauce on each half.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously over both halves.
- Add a few pepperoni slices on top.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Bake or air fry for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Remove and top with fresh basil and a drizzle of chili oil, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Swap pepperoni for mushrooms or bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
- Try different cheeses like cheddar or parmesan for extra flavor.
- Adjust chili oil based on spice preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 35mg