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Crispy Bagel Bites with Cheesy Pepperoni Toppings

crispy bagel bites - featured image

These crispy bagel bites feature a crunchy bagel base topped with melty mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese, pepperoni slices, and a flavorful marinara sauce. Perfect for quick snacks, parties, or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 mini bagels, sliced in half (plain or everything bagels preferred)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (whole-milk recommended)
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 24 thinly sliced pepperoni slices
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or jarred)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Slice the mini bagels in half horizontally and lay them cut side up on the baking sheet.
  3. Brush each bagel half lightly with olive oil to ensure a crispy, golden base.
  4. If desired, mix marinara sauce with garlic powder and oregano in a small bowl for extra flavor.
  5. Spread about 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce on each bagel half.
  6. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the sauce (about 2 tablespoons per bagel half).
  7. Top each bagel bite with 1-2 slices of pepperoni, arranging so edges peek out for crispiness.
  8. Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden and bagel edges are crispy. Watch closely around 10 minutes to avoid burning.
  9. Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes on the baking sheet to allow cheese to set.
  10. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired before serving.

Notes

Brush bagel halves with olive oil for extra crispiness. Avoid overloading with sauce or cheese to keep bites crispy. Watch cheese closely to prevent burning. Let cool slightly before serving for easier handling. Use dairy-free cheese and gluten-free bagels for allergy-friendly versions. Pepperoni can be swapped for turkey pepperoni or omitted for vegetarian versions.

Nutrition

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