Few things make me happier than a quick, hot, cheesy snack that tastes like pizza.
These Air Fryer Pizza Bagels check all the boxes—crispy edges, gooey melted cheese, and your favorite toppings all ready in minutes.
Whether it’s for lunch, an after-school bite, or a late-night craving, these never disappoint!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Super quick – ready in under 10 minutes
Kid-friendly and totally customizable
Crispy on the outside, soft inside, and so cheesy
Great for game days, parties, or solo snacks
Air fryer = no oven heat, faster cleanup
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Bagels – Any kind will work, but plain or everything bagels are perfect bases.
Pizza sauce – Adds that classic tangy tomato flavor.
Mozzarella cheese – Shreds melt beautifully and stretch with each bite.
Pepperoni – Brings bold, savory flavor (crispy or soft depending on placement).
Your favorite toppings – Think olives, onions, mushrooms, bell peppers!
Pro Tips Before You Start
Preheat the air fryer for even cooking.
Don’t overload the toppings—less is more for even crisping.
Put cheese under the pepperoni for softer slices, or on top for crispy.
Use parchment paper or air fryer liners for easier cleanup.
Monitor during cooking—every air fryer is slightly different!
How to Make Air Fryer Pizza Bagels
Step 1: Slice the Bagels
Cut each bagel in half horizontally to create a flat top and bottom.
Step 2: Add Sauce
Spread about 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce onto each half.
Add more if you like it extra saucy!
Step 3: Add Cheese and Toppings
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
Top with pepperoni and any other toppings you love (olives, onions, mushrooms, etc.).
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 380°F and let it preheat for 2–3 minutes.
Step 5: Air Fry the Bagels
Place pizza bagels in a single layer in the basket (no overlapping).
Cook for 4–7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Carefully remove from the air fryer (they’ll be hot!).
Let cool for a minute, then dig in!
What to Serve It With
A green salad or veggie sticks
Garlic butter dipping sauce
Chips or fries for a fun lunch combo
Marinara or ranch for dipping
Variations / Substitutions
Use mini bagels for bite-sized snacks
Swap bagels with English muffins or French bread
Try pesto instead of pizza sauce for a twist
Use plant-based cheese and vegan pepperoni for a dairy-free version
Add crushed red pepper or Italian herbs for extra flavor
Storage & Leftovers
Best enjoyed fresh, straight from the air fryer
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days
Reheat in air fryer for 2–3 minutes to crisp back up
Not recommended for freezing (bagels can get soggy)
FAQs
Can I use frozen bagels?
Yes, just thaw them first for even toasting and better texture.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating helps cook the bagels evenly and melt the cheese faster.
Can I make these in the oven instead?
Absolutely—bake at 400°F for about 10 minutes or until cheese is bubbly.
What kind of bagels work best?
Plain, everything, or even whole wheat—any kind works well.
Can kids help with this recipe?
Definitely! It’s a great hands-on activity with minimal mess.
Why is my cheese burning?
Your air fryer may run hot—reduce the time or add cheese later in the cook.
Can I meal prep these?
You can assemble ahead, refrigerate, then air fry when ready to eat.
Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Pizza Bagels are cheesy, fast, and endlessly customizable.
They satisfy every pizza craving in just minutes and are always a hit with kids and adults alike.
The best part? You likely have everything on hand already.
Give them a try—you’ll be hooked!
Air Fryer Pizza Bagels
Ingredients
- 2 bagels any kind
- 4 tablespoons pizza sauce
- 16 slices pepperoni
- 3 –4 ounces mozzarella cheese shredded
- Other toppings of your choice optional
Instructions
- Slice bagels in half to create tops and bottoms.
- Spread 1 tbsp pizza sauce on each half.
- Add cheese and desired toppings.
- Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
- Cook in a single layer for 4–7 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
- Let cool briefly before serving. Enjoy!
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://wimpysdiner.net/air-fryer-pizza-bagels/
Notes
- Toppings: You can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or olives, or even extra cheese for more flavor.
- Air Fryer Tip: Make sure not to overcrowd the basket to ensure even cooking and crispy results.
