Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you’re familiar with the ingredients, let’s break down the process:
- Start by spreading a generous layer of pizza sauce on the cut side of each bagel half.
- Sprinkle a light dusting of garlic powder over the sauce.
- Heap on the shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring good coverage.
- Add your desired toppings, finishing off with a sprinkle of dried parsley flakes.
- Place the bagels in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap.
- Air fry at 375°F for 5 minutes.
- Raise the temperature to 400°F and cook for an additional minute to get those edges crispy and the cheese nicely browned.
What to Serve It With
Air Fryer Pizza Bagels are delicious on their own, but pairing them with a few sides can elevate your meal. Consider serving them with a fresh garden salad for a pop of color and nutrition, or whip up a batch of garlic breadsticks for a true pizzeria experience. And for dipping, a side of marinara sauce never hurts!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), make sure to store them properly. Place cooled bagels in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3 minutes to restore their crispiness. You can also freeze the assembled bagels before cooking: wrap them tightly and store for up to 2 months, pulling them out for a quick treat any time!
Helpful Cooking Tips
Here are a few extra tips to enhance your Air Fryer Pizza Bagels:
- Experiment with different types of bagels—everything bagels or garlic bagels add fun flavors!
- If you prefer a cheesier result, try mixing different cheeses like provolone or cheddar.
- Consider adding vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or olives for a more balanced meal.
- Preheat your air fryer for a minute or two, if possible, to kickstart the cooking process.
Creative Twists
Think you’ve mastered the basic recipe? Try these variations:
- BBQ Chicken Bagels: Swap the pizza sauce for BBQ sauce and add cooked chicken.
- Veggie Lovers: Load up on fresh veggies like spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini.
- Buffalo Style: Use buffalo sauce instead of pizza sauce and top with blue cheese crumbles.
FAQs
How long do these bagels take to prepare?
From start to finish, you can have these delightful bagels ready in about 15 minutes, including prep and cooking time.
Can I substitute fresh herbs for dried ones?
Absolutely! Fresh parsley, basil, or oregano can elevate the flavors even more, just be sure to use more as fresh herbs are more subtle in taste compared to dried.
What are some healthy toppings to use?
Consider adding grilled chicken breast, fresh spinach, or even avocado slices for a nutritious twist while keeping the flavors intact.
