There’s nothing quite like the sensation of biting into a crispy bagel topped with melted cheese and zesty pizza sauce. The easy-to-make Giant Pizza Bagels of my childhood always brought a smile to my face and a rumble to my stomach. As I hurried home from school, I could already envision the gooey goodness waiting for me in the oven.
This delightful dish transforms simple ingredients into a flavor-packed experience perfect for game days, family movie nights, or when you’re just craving comfort food. What I love most is how customizable they are; whether you’re a pepperoni lover, a veggie enthusiast, or a cheese aficionado, you can make these bagels your own. With their inviting aroma and irresistible texture, they’re guaranteed to win over even the fussiest eaters in your home.
So grab your favorite toppings and let’s turn a basic bagel into a family favorite that’s sure to bring everyone around the dinner table!
Why are Giant Pizza Bagels a must-try?
Comforting and indulgent, these bagels combine the best of pizza and bagels into one delightful bite. Customizable with countless toppings, you can tailor them to suit every palate, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. Quick and easy, they come together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Crowd-pleasing and visually appealing, they’re an excellent choice for parties or family dinners. Endless variations mean you’ll never get bored—switch up the toppings each time for a fresh twist!
Giant Pizza Bagels Ingredients
For the Bagels
• Bagels – Your base; go for store-bought for ease or try homemade for a special touch.
For the Sauce
• Pizza Sauce – Essential for flavor and moisture; use store-bought to save time while still tasting homemade.
For the Cheese
• Shredded Cheese – Vital for that gooey texture; try a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a delicious melty experience.
For the Toppings
• Pepperoni – A classic choice; add them for a savory kick that kids love.
• Diced Bell Peppers – Fresh and colorful; they add a nice crunch and a pop of flavor.
• Olives – Great for a briny touch; choose black or green depending on your preference.
• Pineapple – For those who enjoy a sweet twist on their pizza toppings.
For the Seasoning
• Dried Oregano – Just a pinch enhances the Italian flavor, making your Giant Pizza Bagels even more authentic.
Get ready to create these delicious comforts right in your kitchen!
How to Make Giant Pizza Bagels
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking. Give it a few minutes to heat up fully; this will help achieve that perfect crispy texture.
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Slice the bagels in half horizontally, positioning them cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This allows for easy topping and minimal cleanup!
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Spread a generous layer of pizza sauce on each bagel half, ensuring every nook is covered. This creates a base that’s flavorful and moist, making each bite irresistible.
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Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese over the sauce, aiming for an even distribution. The cheese will melt beautifully, resulting in that gooey goodness we all crave.
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Add your choice of toppings next. Whether it’s pepperoni, olives, or diced bell peppers, pile them high for a colorful and flavorful feast.
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Dust with a pinch of dried oregano over the toppings. This simple touch infuses a lovely Italian aroma, making your Giant Pizza Bagels even more delectable.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them, tweaking the time for your desired crispness.
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Broil for an extra 1-2 minutes to achieve a delightful crunch if you’re feeling a bit adventurous. Just watch closely to avoid burning!
Optional: Serve with a side of marinara for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Giant Pizza Bagels are perfect for meal prepping, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the bagels up to 24 hours in advance by slicing them and storing the halves on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then covering them with plastic wrap to prevent drying. You can also assemble the entire bagel with sauce, cheese, and toppings, then wrap them tightly and refrigerate. Just remember to bake them fresh when you’re ready to eat; simply pop them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes until heated through. With these steps, you’ll have delicious, homemade pizza bagels that taste just as delightful as if you made them that same day!
How to Store and Freeze Giant Pizza Bagels
Fridge: Keep leftover Giant Pizza Bagels in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to restore their delightful texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked bagels individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then placed in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from the freezer without thawing.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven or toaster oven to maintain that crispy outer layer, unlike microwaving, which can make them soggy.
Expert Tips for Giant Pizza Bagels
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Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your bagels while they bake; cooking times can vary based on oven calibration and bagel thickness.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh bagels and quality cheese can significantly elevate the taste of your Giant Pizza Bagels.
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Layer Wisely: Don’t overload on sauce or toppings; an even layer ensures balanced flavors and prevents sogginess.
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Experiment with Cheeses: Mix different cheeses like gouda or feta to create unique flavors with every batch of Giant Pizza Bagels.
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Storing Leftovers: If you have extras, store them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat at 350°F for the best results.
What to Serve with Giant Pizza Bagels?
These delightful bagels are perfect for rounding out a cozy meal or lively party spread.
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Garlic Breadsticks: A classic companion, their buttery flavor and soft texture complement the crunch of the bagels beautifully. Drizzle them with a bit of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs for added flair.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a refreshing balance to the cheesy richness of the bagels. Topped with crunchy croutons, this salad offers a nice contrast.
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Vegetable Platter: Fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers add a crunchy, healthy touch to your meal. Pair with a zesty dip for extra flavor, making it a guilt-free accompaniment.
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Buffalo Wings: For those who enjoy a kick, spicy wings pair deliciously with the cheesy goodness. The heat from the wings contrasts wonderfully with the savory bagels, creating an enticing combination.
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Coleslaw: This creamy and tangy side adds a refreshing coolness to the meal. The crunch of the slaw complements the texture of the Giant Pizza Bagels, rounding out your dining experience.
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Fruit Salad: A vibrant bowl of seasonal fruit brings a touch of sweetness and freshness to the table. The lightness of the fruit is the perfect counterbalance to the indulgent bagels.
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Craft Soda or Iced Tea: A fizzy drink enhances the fun atmosphere, while iced tea adds a refreshing element to the meal. Opt for flavors that awaken the palate!
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey cookies. Their familiarity and comfort resonate with the flavors of the bagels and bring smiles all around.
Pairing these delightful sides with your Giant Pizza Bagels will create a memorable meal that nourishes the heart and soul!
Giant Pizza Bagels Variations
Get ready to elevate your Giant Pizza Bagels with these fun and delicious twists that will excite your taste buds.
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Mini Bagels: Swap standard bagels for mini versions, perfect for bite-sized party snacks or kids’ lunches. They’re adorable and great for portion control!
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Alternative Cheeses: Introduce gouda or feta for a distinct flavor profile that adds richness to every bite. Feeling adventurous? Mix different cheeses for extra gooeyness!
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Veggie Boost: Enhance your bagels with fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, veggie-packed option. Not only does this add nutrition, but it also boosts texture and taste.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a fun heat that will thrill spice lovers while complementing the savory cheese.
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Sweet Surprise: Top with sliced strawberries or apples drizzled with balsamic glaze for an unexpected sweet twist. This creates a delightful contrast with the savory ingredients!
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Herb Infusion: Mix chopped fresh basil or parsley into your cheese layer for a refreshing herbaceous note. The aroma will make your bagels even more inviting!
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Protein-Packed: Incorporate cooked sausage or diced chicken for an additional protein punch. This makes them even more filling and satisfying, perfect for a main course.
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Different Sauces: Experiment with barbecue or pesto instead of traditional pizza sauce for unique flavor profiles. This simple swap can transport your bagels into a completely new realm of deliciousness!
Giant Pizza Bagels Recipe FAQs
What type of bagels should I use for Giant Pizza Bagels?
I recommend using fresh bagels for the best flavor and texture. You can opt for store-bought bagels to save time or try making homemade bagels for a personal touch. Look for bagels that are slightly chewy on the outside and soft on the inside for that perfect base.
How should I store leftover Giant Pizza Bagels?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat the bagels in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to help restore that crispy texture.
Can I freeze Giant Pizza Bagels?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each baked bagel individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. You can keep them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them directly from the freezer in the oven at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes.
What toppings work best for Giant Pizza Bagels?
The beauty of Giant Pizza Bagels lies in their customization! Classic options include pepperoni and olives, while fresh veggies like diced bell peppers or spinach add color and nutrition. For those who enjoy a sweet twist, go ahead and add pineapple. Don’t hesitate to mix and match to find your favorite combination!
Are Giant Pizza Bagels suitable for anyone with allergies?
It’s essential to consider allergies when preparing these bagels. If you’re serving someone with gluten intolerance, try using gluten-free bagels. Be mindful of cheese allergies or lactose intolerance as well—dairy-free cheese alternatives work well for maintaining that gooey texture. Always double-check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Giant Pizza Bagels: Your New Favorite Comfort Food Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking.
- Slice the bagels in half horizontally and place them cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Spread a generous layer of pizza sauce on each bagel half.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the sauce.
- Add your choice of toppings on top of the cheese.
- Dust a pinch of dried oregano over the toppings.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Broil for an extra 1-2 minutes for added crunch if desired.