Air-Fryer Pizza Bagels: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Pizza bagels are a quick, easy, and delicious snack that can be made in an air fryer in under 10 minutes. They are perfect for a quick lunch, a satisfying snack, or a customizable dinner option. The toppings are endless, making them a great option for picky eaters. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to make your own pizza bagels in an air fryer.

Choosing the right bagels

Freshness and Texture

Start by choosing fresh bagels with a slightly chewy texture. Avoid bagels that are too dense, as they may become hard and dry when air-fried. Opt for bagels with a firm and chewy texture, which will provide a good base for your toppings.

Variety of Flavors

Feel free to experiment with different flavors such as plain, sesame, everything bagels, or even garlic, cheese, or whole wheat bagels. Using different flavors can add a unique twist to your pizza bagels.

Size and Quantity

You can use either full-size bagels or mini bagels for your pizza bagels, depending on your preference. If using full-size bagels, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Additionally, consider the number of bagels you'll need based on the serving size and whether you plan to serve them as a snack or a meal.

Gluten-Free and Dietary Options

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, look for gluten-free bagels or other specialty options. Some recipes even suggest using mini versions of bagels for a breakfast twist, so feel free to get creative and choose bagels that align with your dietary needs.

Staleness

If you're looking to use up slightly stale bagels, pizza bagels can be a great option. The air fryer can help revive stale bagels and give them a crispy texture, so don't be afraid to use bagels that might be past their prime.

Remember, the key to choosing the right bagels is to select ones that will provide a good balance between texture and flavor. You want a bagel that will hold up to the toppings and sauce without becoming soggy, while also complementing the overall taste of your pizza bagels.

Sauce and cheese balance

Achieving the perfect sauce and cheese balance is crucial when making pizza bagels in an air fryer. Here are some tips to help you get it just right:

• Sauce Application: When spreading pizza sauce on your bagel halves, be generous but don't overdo it. A thick layer of sauce may cause the bagels to become soggy. Aim for a thin, even layer that covers the surface without making it too wet.
• Cheese Quantity: While cheese is a key component, too much can be overwhelming. Use enough shredded or fresh mozzarella to act as a "glue" for your other toppings, but avoid piling it on too high. This ensures the cheese melts evenly and doesn't hinder the crispiness of the bagel.
• Sauce Consistency: Opt for a pizza sauce that is not too runny. A thicker sauce will help prevent the bagels from becoming soggy. If you're making your own sauce, aim for a thicker consistency by using tomato puree as a base and adding spices and a touch of sweetness.
• Pre-Air Fry Tip: Toasting the bagels before adding sauce and cheese can help prevent sogginess. Brush the bagel halves with olive oil, then air fry them without the toppings until golden brown and crisp. This creates a barrier that keeps the sauce from seeping into the bagel, ensuring a crisp texture.
• Customization: Remember, you can always adjust the sauce and cheese quantities to suit your taste. If you prefer a cheesier pizza bagel, go ahead and add a bit more. If you like your sauce-to-cheese ratio higher, spread on some extra sauce. Just be mindful of the potential for sogginess and adjust your cooking technique accordingly.

Picking your toppings

Meats

• Pepperoni
• Sausage
• Bacon
• Meatballs
• Chicken

Vegetables

• Bell peppers
• Onions
• Mushrooms
• Olives
• Spinach
• Zucchini
• Tomatoes
• Jalapenos

Cheese

• Mozzarella
• Provolone
• Cheddar
• Parmesan
• Swiss

And don't forget to add your favourite pizza sauce! You can use a store-bought sauce or make your own by combining tomato puree, spices, and a touch of sweetness.

Air fryer settings

The settings you use for your air fryer pizza bagels will depend on the model of your air fryer and the toppings you choose. It's important to note that air fryer models vary in power, so checking on your pizza bagels before the recommended cooking time is essential to prevent overcooking.

• Preheat your air fryer to around 355-375°F (187-190°C). Most air fryers will take about 2-3 minutes to preheat.
• Cook your pizza bagels for 5-7 minutes at 360-375°F (187-190°C). The cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your bagels, the amount of toppings, and the power of your air fryer.
• Check on your pizza bagels during the cooking process, especially after about 3 minutes, to ensure they don't burn.
• If you're using frozen bagel bites, cook them at 360°F/182°C for 5-6 minutes.
• If you're reheating cooked pizza bagels, set your air fryer to 350-375°F (175-190°C) and cook for 2-5 minutes.

Remember that every air fryer is different, so you may need to adjust the temperature and timing slightly based on your specific model. It's always a good idea to keep an eye on your pizza bagels during the cooking process to ensure they don't burn and to achieve your desired level of doneness.

Serving suggestions

Air Fryer Pizza Bagels are a fun, delicious, and versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways to suit any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your pizza bagel experience:

• Quick Lunch or Snack: Pizza bagels are perfect for a quick and easy lunch or snack. Whip up a batch and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness in just a few minutes. They are a great option when you're short on time but craving something tasty and satisfying.
• Customizable Dinner: The beauty of pizza bagels is that they can be customised to suit individual tastes. Lay out an assortment of toppings and let everyone create their own unique pizza bagel. It's a fun and interactive way to enjoy a casual dinner with family or friends.
• Appetiser or Party Snack: Pizza bagels make excellent appetisers or party snacks. They are easy to prepare and can be made in batches to feed a crowd. Serve them as a tasty treat at your next gathering and watch them disappear!
• Game Night Treat: Looking for the perfect snack to share during game night? Pizza bagels are a fantastic option. They are easy to eat, and the customisation options will keep everyone happy, from classic pepperoni to creative veggie delights.
• Kid-Friendly Cooking Activity: Get the kids involved in the kitchen by making pizza bagels! It's a fun and simple way to introduce them to cooking. They can experiment with different toppings and develop their culinary creativity.
• Brunch or Breakfast Option: For a hearty breakfast or brunch, try using mini bagels as a base. Top them with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and cheddar cheese for a scrumptious breakfast bagel.

No matter the occasion, Air Fryer Pizza Bagels are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that can be tailored to suit any taste or dietary preference. So, fire up your air fryer and get creative with your toppings!

Frequently asked questions