Air-Fryer Egg Bagel: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Making an egg bagel in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious breakfast or lunch. The air fryer ensures that all the ingredients meld together beautifully, resulting in a bagel that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. This cooking method also saves time, as you can prepare the bagel and egg in less than 10 minutes. To make an egg bagel in an air fryer, simply line the basket with parchment paper, add your halved bagel, crack an egg into it, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and air fry at 350-360°F for 7-9 minutes. You can also add cheese, meat, or vegetables to customize your bagel further.

Choosing the right bagel

Type of Bagel

Firstly, consider the type of bagel you prefer. Bagels come in various flavours, including plain, blueberry, cinnamon raisin, onion, sesame, and everything bagels. You can choose a bagel that complements the other ingredients in your sandwich or one that stands out as the star of the dish. For example, a cinnamon raisin bagel can add a sweet twist to your egg bagel, while an everything bagel offers a more savoury experience.

Freshness

The freshness of the bagel is also important. If you're using fresh bagels, they may contain more moisture, which can affect the crispiness of the final product. To combat this, consider a pre-toasting technique. Place the fresh bagel in the air fryer for a short pre-toast at a lower temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) to remove excess moisture.

Size

The size of the bagel is another factor to consider. Most recipes suggest using standard-sized bagels and cutting them in half before placing them in the air fryer. However, you can also use mini bagels, which are smaller and may fit better in your air fryer, allowing you to cook more at once.

Gluten-Free Option

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, you can also choose gluten-free bagels. These bagels provide a great alternative for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. Gluten-free bagels are becoming more widely available and can be just as tasty as their glutenous counterparts when prepared correctly.

Quantity

When making egg bagels in an air fryer, it's important to consider the quantity you wish to make. Air fryers have limited space, and you may need to cook in batches if you're feeding a crowd. Plan accordingly and allow enough time for multiple batches if needed.

Storage

If you have leftover bagels, proper storage is essential to maintain freshness. Store uneaten cooked bagels in an airtight container, plastic wrap, or a sealed bag. They can be kept at room temperature for 2-7 days or frozen for later use.

By considering the type, freshness, size, and quantity of bagels, as well as storage options, you can choose the right bagel for your air fryer egg bagel creation. Remember to refer to the specific recipe you're using for additional guidance on selecting the perfect bagel for your delicious breakfast or brunch treat.

Preparing the ingredients

Ingredients:

• Bagel of your choice (plain, sesame, everything, whole grain, gluten-free, etc.)
• Eggs
• Cheese (cheddar, Swiss, American, mozzarella, or dairy-free)
• Salt and pepper
• Optional toppings: red pepper flakes, bacon, avocado, tomatoes, deli ham, spinach, etc.

• Start by gathering all the ingredients and measuring out the desired amounts.
• Line the inside of your air fryer basket with parchment paper. This will make cleanup easier and prevent sticking.
• Slice your chosen bagel in half. You can place the bagel cut-side down or soft-side down, depending on your preference.
• If you want to add any toppings to the bagel itself, such as cheese, now is the time to do so. Sprinkle shredded cheese, feta, or your desired topping onto the bagel.
• Crack an egg into the center of each bagel half. You can also add additional ingredients, such as diced tomatoes, onions, or a slice of sweet green pepper on top of the egg.
• Season the egg and other ingredients with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other seasonings like red pepper flakes, chives, thyme, or paprika for extra flavor.
• If you are adding deli ham or other meats, such as crispy bacon or sausage patties, place them on top of the egg now.
• Once you have assembled your egg bagel with all the desired ingredients, it is ready to be placed in the air fryer.

Remember, you can customize your egg bagel with various toppings and ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment and get creative!

Cooking the bagel

To make an egg bagel in an air fryer, start by lining the air fryer basket with parchment paper. Then, slice your bagel in half and place it face down on the paper. Next, crack an egg into the centre of the bagel. You can also add toppings such as shredded cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Once you've added your desired toppings, close the air fryer tray and cook at 350°F for 7 to 8 minutes for a runny yolk, or 360°F for 7-9 minutes if you prefer your egg fully cooked.

If you're making a bagel sandwich, the process is a little different. First, toast your bagel in the air fryer at 320°F for 3 minutes. Meanwhile, cook your egg on a stovetop in a pan. Once the bagel is toasted, add the egg on top, followed by a slice of cheddar cheese and a slice of deli ham. Wrap the sandwich in aluminium foil, then place it back in the air fryer for 3 minutes at 340°F.

For a more extensive bagel-making process, you can make the bagels from scratch. To do this, combine self-rising flour and Greek yoghurt in a large mixing bowl. Divide the dough into equal parts and roll each into a log shape, joining the ends together to create the bagel form. Place the bagels in the air fryer on parchment paper, making sure they don't touch. Brush the bagels with a mixture of egg white and water, then sprinkle your chosen toppings. Air fry at 350°F for 8-10 minutes.

Cooking the egg

To cook the egg for your bagel, you'll need to first prepare the air fryer basket by lining it with parchment paper. You can then get creative with your egg.

One option is to crack the egg directly into the centre of a halved bagel, allowing the yolk to sit in the hole. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste, and air fry at 350-360°F for 7-9 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness for the yolk.

Alternatively, you can cook the egg separately on a stovetop, seasoning it with salt and pepper, and then add it to your bagel before placing the sandwich in the air fryer.

If you opt for the first method, you can add toppings like shredded cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, or cream cheese spread before placing the egg in the air fryer.

For a runny yolk, keep an eye on the egg as it cooks and remove it from the air fryer once the whites are cooked but the yolks are still runny.

If you prefer a more well-done egg, you can cook it for a longer duration, or even pop it in the microwave for a few seconds after air frying to ensure the whites are fully cooked.

Serving suggestions

There are many ways to serve an egg bagel cooked in an air fryer. Here are some suggestions:

The Classic

The traditional combination of cream cheese and smoked salmon is a favourite for a reason. It's quick, easy, and oh-so satisfying. This classic pairing never goes out of style and makes for a perfect brunch option.

The Savoury Delight

For a heartier option, transform your air-fried egg bagel into a delicious bagel sandwich. Layer deli meats like ham, crispy bacon, sausage patties, or roast beef with lettuce, sliced avocado, spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or tomatoes. Add your favourite condiments, such as spicy sriracha mayo, tangy mustard, or a creamy avocado spread. Don't forget to season with herbs like chives or thyme for an extra flavour boost.

The Cheesy Creation

If you're a cheese enthusiast, there are endless possibilities. Try using cheddar, Swiss, American, mozzarella, or Havarti cheese. For a gooey, savoury delight, place the cheese on the bottom of the bagel to melt into the bread and prevent the other fillings from getting soggy. You can even fry Gouda onto the bottom of the bagel to add a crispy, cheesy twist.

The Sweet Tooth

If you have a sweet tooth, indulge in a ridiculous amount of cream cheese topped with a generous drizzle of honey. This combination will satisfy your sugar cravings and make your taste buds dance. Alternatively, opt for a light smear of butter for a more subtle sweetness.

The Spicy Kick

Add some spice to your egg bagel by incorporating jalapeño-cheddar into the mix. This combination will surely wake up your taste buds and add a kick to your morning or afternoon. It's a perfect way to add some excitement to your meal.

The Fresh and Healthy

For a refreshing and nutritious option, add fresh vegetables like avocado, spinach, tomatoes, or onions. These veggies will provide a crunchy texture and a boost of vitamins and minerals. You can even prep and measure your ingredients the night before to save time in the morning.

Frequently asked questions