Air Fryer Bagel Pizzas

Air Fryer Bagel Pizzas are a quick and delicious meal perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a fun snack for game day, these bagel pizzas are sure to impress. With their crispy crust, gooey cheese, and endless topping possibilities, they outshine any store-bought option. Plus, they’re ready in under 10 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 9 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy homemade pizza without the wait.
• Customizable Toppings: Get creative! Use your favorite toppings to personalize each bagel pizza.
• Crispy and Delicious: The air fryer gives these pizzas a perfectly crispy crust that will satisfy any pizza lover.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love helping to make their own mini pizzas, making this a fun family activity.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Air Fryer Bagel Pizzas, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and enhance your results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Pastry brush
• Small bowl (for mixing spices)
• Serving platter

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This gadget cooks food quickly while providing a crispy texture without excess oil.
• Pastry brush: Perfect for spreading oil evenly on the bagels for maximum flavor.
• Small bowl: Useful for mixing spices like garlic powder and oregano before applying them to your bagels.

Ingredients

With a crispy seasoned crust, melty cheese, and toppings of choice, these air fryer bagel pizzas are ready in less than 10 minutes and are WAY better than anything store-bought.

For the Bagels

• 2 standard bagels (or 4 mini bagels)
• 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil

For the Seasoning

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon oregano

For the Sauce and Cheese

• 3 tablespoons pizza sauce
• ½ cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (optional)

How to Make Air Fryer Bagel Pizzas

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat the Air Fryer to 370℉ (180℃) if needed. This ensures even cooking for your bagel pizzas.

Step 2: Prepare the Bagels

• Brush the cut sides of the bagel halves with extra virgin olive oil.
• Sprinkle garlic powder and oregano evenly over each bagel half.
• Place the bagel halves in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

Step 3: First Cook Cycle

Air-fry the bagel halves for about 3 minutes or until they are golden brown. This step will create a solid base for your toppings.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese

Remove the toasted bagel halves from the air fryer. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce on each half.
* Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
* If desired, add parmesan cheese along with any additional toppings you prefer.

Step 5: Final Cooking Cycle

Return the topped bagel pizzas to the air fryer basket. Air fry at 370℉ (180℃) for about 4 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden. If you prefer just melted cheese without browning, set your timer for only 3 minutes.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once cooked, carefully remove the bagel pizzas from the air fryer. Allow them to cool for about 1-2 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Bagel Pizzas!

How to Serve Air Fryer Bagel Pizzas

Air fryer bagel pizzas are incredibly versatile and can be served in various delicious ways. Whether for a quick lunch, snack, or dinner, these mini pizzas can be customized to suit any taste. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your Air Fryer Bagel Pizzas experience.

Add Fresh Toppings

• Basil – Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes – For those who enjoy a bit of heat, red pepper flakes add a spicy kick.
• Sliced Olives – Black or green olives can bring a salty touch to your bagel pizzas.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Garlic Sauce – A creamy garlic sauce is perfect for dipping your bagel pizzas.
• Ranch Dressing – This popular dressing complements the cheesy goodness nicely.
• Hot Sauce – For an extra zing, serve with your favorite hot sauce.

Serve with a Salad

• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with fresh greens and a vinaigrette balances the richness of the pizzas.
• Caesar Salad – The classic Caesar salad adds a crunchy element that pairs well with cheesy flavors.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Bagel Pizzas

To make sure your Air Fryer Bagel Pizzas turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips. They will help you achieve that ideal crispy crust and gooey cheese.

• Preheat Your Air Fryer – Ensuring the air fryer is preheated allows for even cooking and better texture.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor and overall quality of your bagel pizzas.
• Don’t Overcrowd – Give each pizza enough space in the air fryer basket for optimal airflow and crispiness.
• Adjust Cooking Time for Toppings – If using heavier toppings, like cooked meats or extra cheese, increase the cooking time slightly to ensure everything heats through nicely.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Bagel Pizzas

While Air Fryer Bagel Pizzas are delicious on their own, pairing them with the right side dishes can create a complete meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Garlic Breadsticks – These buttery sticks complement the pizza’s flavors wonderfully; they can be made quickly in the oven.
2. Caprese Skewers – Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
3. Vegetable Chips – Crispy vegetable chips provide crunch and are a healthier alternative to traditional potato chips.
4. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad adds sweetness and freshness to balance the savory bagel pizzas.
5. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and a zesty flavor that pairs well with pizza.
6. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side dish that everyone loves.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Air Fryer Bagel Pizzas can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to unsatisfactory results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Skipping Preheating: Not preheating your air fryer can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat for the best texture.
• Overloading Toppings: Adding too many toppings can make your bagel pizzas soggy. Stick to a balanced amount for optimal crispiness.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold cheese or sauce can delay cooking time. Let your ingredients sit at room temperature before use.
• Not Monitoring Cooking Time: Every air fryer is different. Check your bagel pizzas a minute or two before the suggested time to prevent overcooking.
• Ignoring Quality of Bagels: Using stale or low-quality bagels will affect the taste. Choose fresh bagels for the best flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover bagel pizzas in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Air Fryer Bagel Pizzas

• Wrap each bagel pizza tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Air Fryer Bagel Pizzas

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350℉ (175℃) and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30-45 seconds, but expect a softer texture.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making Air Fryer Bagel Pizzas.

Can I use different types of cheese for Air Fryer Bagel Pizzas?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or vegan cheese alternatives for unique flavors.

How do I make Air Fryer Bagel Pizzas gluten-free?

Use gluten-free bagels as a substitute, and ensure that all toppings are also gluten-free.

What toppings work best on Air Fryer Bagel Pizzas?

You can top your bagel pizzas with vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, or even meats like turkey pepperoni for added flavor.

Can I prepare Air Fryer Bagel Pizzas ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them ahead and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to cook them.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Bagel Pizzas are not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with your favorite toppings, making them perfect for any meal or snack time. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a deliciously cheesy treat!