Save I started making these on weeknights when I needed something fast that actually made my kids stop arguing long enough to eat. The bagels crisp up in the oven, the cheese bubbles into golden pockets, and suddenly everyone's asking for seconds. It's not fancy, but it works every single time.
One Saturday I let my daughter pile on her own toppings and she made a smiley face with pepperoni. It tasted exactly the same as mine, but she ate three without complaining once. That's when I realized these little bagels do more than fill stomachs.
Ingredients
- 6 mini bagels, sliced in half: The base that crisps beautifully in the oven. I've used plain, everything, and even cinnamon raisin by accident (don't do that).
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce: The flavor anchor. I keep a jar in the fridge because we go through this recipe often.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into stretchy, bubbly perfection. Pre-shredded is fine, block cheese melts a little smoother if you have time.
- 36–48 mini pepperoni slices: Crispy edges, salty bite. Count about 3 to 4 per bagel half depending on how generous you're feeling.
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a nutty, salty finish that makes them taste more grown-up.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: A little sprinkle brings the pizza shop smell right into your kitchen.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For anyone who wants a tiny kick of heat.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional garnish): Bright, fresh contrast if you have it on hand.
Instructions
- Preheat and prep:
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This keeps cleanup simple and prevents sticking.
- Arrange the bagels:
- Lay the mini bagel halves cut side up on the sheet. Make sure they're not touching so the edges crisp evenly.
- Spread the sauce:
- Spoon about 2 teaspoons of pizza sauce onto each half, spreading it almost to the edge. Don't drown them or the bottoms get soggy.
- Add the cheese:
- Sprinkle mozzarella over each bagel, dividing it evenly. A little extra in the center helps it melt outward.
- Top with pepperoni:
- Place 3 to 4 mini pepperoni slices on each half. They'll crisp up and release a little oil as they bake.
- Season:
- Dust with Parmesan, oregano, and red pepper flakes if you like. These small touches make a big difference in flavor.
- Bake:
- Slide the sheet into the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the bagel edges are golden. Watch them in the last few minutes so nothing burns.
- Cool and garnish:
- Let them sit for 2 to 3 minutes before serving. Scatter fresh basil on top if you want a pop of color and freshness.
Save I brought a tray of these to a playdate once and the other parents kept asking for the recipe. I felt a little silly saying it was just bagels and sauce, but they didn't care. Sometimes the simplest things are the ones people remember.
How to Freeze and Reheat
Let the baked bagels cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a tray. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat straight from frozen in a 375°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or pop them in the toaster oven until warm and crispy again.
Topping Variations
Swap pepperoni for sliced olives, bell peppers, mushrooms, or even pineapple if that's your thing. My neighbor does a veggie version with spinach and tomatoes that her kids actually eat. You can also brush the edges with garlic butter before baking for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These work as an after-school snack, a quick lunch with a side salad, or party appetizers that disappear fast. I've served them with marinara for dipping, carrot sticks, or just a handful of grapes on the side.
- Pair with a simple green salad to balance the richness.
- Serve with extra pizza sauce or ranch for dipping.
- Pack them in lunchboxes cold, they're still good at room temperature.
Save These bagels have saved more weeknights than I can count. Keep the ingredients stocked and you'll always have an answer when someone says they're hungry.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bagels work best?
Mini bagels sliced in half work best due to their size and texture, offering a perfect base for toppings while baking evenly.
- → Can I use different toppings?
Yes, try alternatives like olives, bell peppers, mushrooms, or pineapple to customize flavors and suit dietary preferences.
- → How can I make this vegetarian?
Omit the pepperoni or substitute with plant-based alternatives or additional vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- → What is the ideal baking temperature and time?
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes until the cheese melts and edges turn crisp and golden.
- → Can these be prepared in advance?
Yes, bake and cool completely before freezing in a single layer. Reheat in oven or toaster for convenient snacking.