Save Pin
Once I found out how easy air fryer bagel pizzas are, snack breaks turned into way less hassle and way more fun at my place. This is my go-to for those times when you want all the pizza vibes but can’t deal with a sink full of dirty dishes. It's totally kid and grownup friendly, with melty cheese and crispy bagel every time.
This is always my number one pick when my kids have buddies over because everyone gets to load up their own bagel with any toppings they want. These little bagel pizzas have saved me on more than one chaotic night and I kind of depend on how simple they are.
Tasty Ingredients
- Parmesan cheese: Gives a salty punch on top if you want, especially freshly shredded off the block.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Key for that stretchy, melty layer—get whole milk if you want extra gooeyness.
- Pizza sauce: A zesty layer right under the cheese—use your favorite jar or anything you made yourself.
- Oregano: Just a pinch for those old-school Italian vibes, rub between your fingers to bring the flavor alive.
- Garlic powder: Cranks up the classic pizzeria taste—sniff for freshness when you buy.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Makes the bagel edges crunchier—use a nice one if you can for big flavor.
- Bagels: The base that goes crispy right in the air fryer, try plain or everything bagels for extra taste. Fresh is best for texture.
Simple Step-by-Step
- Rest and Enjoy:
- Give the pizzas about a minute to cool down so you don’t scorch your mouth. The cheese will firm up a bit before you eat.
- Final Air Fry:
- Pop the topped bagels back into the basket or tray. Air fry four minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and golden. Craving softer cheese? Three minutes does the trick.
- Top with Sauce and Cheese:
- Take out the bagels and spread some pizza sauce over each half. Add mozzarella evenly then sprinkle with parmesan if that’s your thing. Toss on any other toppings now.
- First Air Fry:
- Lay out your bagel halves oiled side up in the basket. Three minutes in the air fryer will crisp them up—goodbye soggy crusts!
- Season the Bagels:
- Brush every cut side with olive oil to get that crunch. Sprinkle garlic powder and oregano over the top so the flavors stick.
- Get the Air Fryer Hot:
- Set your air fryer to 370 degrees and wait a few minutes. Starting with a hot basket gives your bagels a great crisp.
Save Pin
Everything bagels are my top pick for this—those bits of onion, garlic, and seeds on the crust just make the whole thing pop. One time I made a bunch for a kids’ sleepover and they still talk about it as the coolest snack they ever had.
Save & Store
You can stash these air fryer bagel pizzas in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. Want to keep them longer? Wrap them up tight and freeze for a month. Pop them straight back in the oven or air fryer until everything’s hot and cheesy.
Swap-Out Ideas
Whole wheat bagels work great for a boost or use gluten free ones if you need. Try plant-based mozzarella for a vegan version. Toss on cooked veggies or turkey pepperoni—whatever suits you. No pizza sauce? Marinara or even pesto are easy stand-ins.
Save Pin
Awesome Ways To Serve
These tiny pies are plenty as they are, but pair them with salad for a simple meal. Hosting? Make a DIY bagel pizza bar so guests can add their favorite toppings. Cut them into quarters—they make perfect party bites.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What other toppings can I stick on these bagel pizzas?
Totally! Throw on peppers, mushrooms, ham, or anything you’re craving before you cook that last round.
- → How do I make my bagels super crunchy?
Want more crunch? Give the bagel halves a quick solo spin in the air fryer before sauce and cheese go on.
- → Which cheeses are best here?
Mozzarella melts like a dream, but you can use cheddar, provolone, or toss in Parmesan for extra flavor.
- → Can I prep these ahead?
They taste best right from the air fryer. But you can get the toppings ready, set them aside, then just finish air frying when you’re ready to eat.
- → Do I have to heat up the air fryer first?
Warming it up makes the bagels crisper, but if your machine gets hot fast, you can go ahead and skip it.