Homemade Air Fryer Pizza Bagels

Name: Homemade Air Fryer Pizza Bagels
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 11 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 plain bagels, sliced in half; 1 cup pizza sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup mini pepperoni or turkey pepperoni; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Olive oil spray

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: September 24, 2025

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Introduction to Homemade Air Fryer Pizza Bagels

Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re like me, juggling a busy schedule, you know how challenging it can be to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. That’s where these Homemade Air Fryer Pizza Bagels come in! They’re the perfect quick snack or meal that your family will adore. Just imagine golden, crispy bagels topped with gooey cheese and flavorful toppings, all made in under 15 minutes! Trust me, this recipe will not only satisfy hungry bellies but also impress your loved ones with its homemade touch.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Air Fryer Pizza Bagels

These Homemade Air Fryer Pizza Bagels are all about simplicity and flavor. In just a few minutes, you can prepare a satisfying meal or snack that the whole family will crave. The air fryer guarantees a crispy bagel topped with bubbling cheese and savory toppings, making dinner feel special without the fuss. Plus, it’s an approach to meal-making that saves both time and effort—perfect for busy days!

Ingredients for Homemade Air Fryer Pizza Bagels

Gathering the right ingredients is key to crafting these delightful Homemade Air Fryer Pizza Bagels. Here’s what you’ll need:

Plain bagels: The foundation for your pizza bagels, providing that chewy, satisfying base. Feel free to choose whole grain or everything bagels for extra flavor.
Pizza sauce: This tangy sauce is what brings the pizza experience to life. You can buy your favorite jar or make your own for a personal touch.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: The ultimate melty topping that creates the perfect gooey texture. You can swap this out for provolone or cheddar if you’re feeling adventurous!
Mini pepperoni or turkey pepperoni: A classic topping that adds a delightful meatiness. For a healthier option, choose turkey pepperoni or skip it entirely for a vegetarian twist.
Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs infuses your bagels with authentic pizza flavor. If you lack this, a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme will do the trick.
Garlic powder: A sprinkle of this enhances the overall flavor and adds a savory depth that pairs beautifully with cheese and sauce.
Olive oil spray: A light mist promotes crispiness on your bagel edges. If you don’t have it, any cooking spray will work just fine!

For those looking to mix it up, consider adding veggies like bell peppers or onions for extra crunch and nutrients. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient listed at the bottom of the article and available for printing. Happy cooking!

How to Make Homemade Air Fryer Pizza Bagels

Creating your Homemade Air Fryer Pizza Bagels is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time.

Preheat the Air Fryer

First things first, set your air fryer to 375°F and let it preheat for about 3 minutes.

This step is important because preheating ensures even cooking, helping your bagels reach that perfect golden-brown hue!

Prepare the Bagels

Next, take your plain bagels and slice them in half. This is where the magic begins!

Lightly mist the cut sides with olive oil spray. This little trick helps them crisp up nicely, adding a delightful crunch.

Add Pizza Sauce

Now for the fun part! Grab your pizza sauce and spread approximately 1 tablespoon evenly on each bagel half.

Making sure to cover the surface will enhance the flavors, giving you that authentic pizza experience.

Add Cheese Toppings

Time to pile on the cheese! Distribute the shredded mozzarella generously over the sauce.

The more cheese, the better! This will melt beautifully, creating that stretchy, gooey texture we all love.

Include Additional Toppings

Next, it’s topping time! If you love mini pepperoni, now’s your chance to sprinkle it over the cheese.

Feel free to experiment with your favorite toppings, whether they’re veggies or other meats. Just make sure to place them evenly across each bagel half.

Season the Bagels

For that extra flavor, sprinkle Italian seasoning and garlic powder across all bagel halves.

This simple step elevates your bagels from tasty to absolutely delightful!

Air Frying Process

Carefully arrange the bagel halves in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If you have a lot, work in batches to avoid overcrowding.

This way, they’ll crisp up nicely without steaming. Air fry them for 5 to 6 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly!

Cooling and Serving

Once they’re done, let your bagel halves cool for about 2 minutes. This cooling time allows the cheese to set slightly, making them easier to handle.

Serve warm and enjoy your homemade pizza bagels as a delightful snack or meal!

Tips for Success

Use fresh, high-quality bagels for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t skip the olive oil spray; it enhances crispiness.
Preheat the air fryer properly for even cooking.
Feel free to customize toppings based on your family’s preferences.
Watch the bagels closely during air frying to prevent overcooking.

Equipment Needed for Homemade Air Fryer Pizza Bagels

Air Fryer: The star of this recipe! Any model will work well.
Chef’s Knife: For slicing your bagels with ease.
Cutting Board: A sturdy surface to prepare your ingredients.
Measuring Spoon: For accurate sauce and seasoning portions.

Variations of Homemade Air Fryer Pizza Bagels

Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the pepperoni for a colorful mix of veggies, like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a fresh twist.
Cheesy Herb Explosion: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or even a blend for a more robust flavor.
Buffalo Chicken Bagels: Add shredded cooked chicken tossed in buffalo sauce for a spicy alternative.
BBQ Veggie Bagels: Use BBQ sauce instead of pizza sauce and top with grilled veggies for a smoky flavor.
Breakfast Pizza Bagels: Remove the sauce and add scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese for a breakfast version.

Serving Suggestions for Homemade Air Fryer Pizza Bagels

Pair your bagels with a fresh garden salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette for a delightful contrast.
Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping—it’s a classic combo that everyone loves!
Enjoy with a crispy glass of iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing touch.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a colorful presentation.

FAQs about Homemade Air Fryer Pizza Bagels

Can I make these Homemade Air Fryer Pizza Bagels in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the bagels ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just pop them in the air fryer when you’re ready to enjoy.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

No worries! You can bake them in the oven at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are golden.

Can I use different sauces for my bagels?

Of course! Feel free to experiment with pesto, BBQ sauce, or even a homemade garlic sauce for a fun twist on flavors.

How do I keep my bagels from getting soggy?

Make sure to add just the right amount of sauce. Too much sauce can make them soggy, while the olive oil will help keep them crispy.

Can I freeze the bagels for later?

Absolutely! Just assemble and freeze them before air frying. When you’re ready, air fry them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Final Thoughts on Homemade Air Fryer Pizza Bagels

Making Homemade Air Fryer Pizza Bagels brings a delightful twist to quick meals. They’re not just easy to prepare but also a fantastic way to bond with your family over a tasty snack. The satisfaction of biting into a crispy bagel topped with melted cheese is simply unbeatable. Plus, you can customize toppings to please even the pickiest eaters in your home. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick cooking time, this recipe transforms everyday eating into a fun culinary adventure. Enjoy every bite, and share the joy with your loved ones!