📝 About This Recipe
Transform the humble morning staple into a crunchy, cheesy masterpiece that kids and adults alike will adore. These miniature mains offer the perfect ratio of chewy bagel base to zesty tomato sauce and gooey melted mozzarella. It’s a nostalgic comfort food classic elevated with high-quality ingredients, making it the ultimate quick dinner or party snack.
🥗 Ingredients
The Base
- 8 pieces Plain Mini Bagels (sliced in half to make 16 mini pizzas)
- 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for brushing the bagels)
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder (to season the base)
The Sauce
- 1 cup Tomato Puree or Marinara (high quality, low moisture)
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon Honey or Sugar (to balance acidity)
The Toppings
- 2 cups Low-Moisture Shredded Mozzarella (freshly grated melts best)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (finely grated)
- 1/2 cup Mini Pepperoni Slices
- 1/4 cup Bell Peppers (finely diced)
- 6-8 leaves Fresh Basil (torn into small pieces for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
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2
Place the 16 bagel halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching so the edges can get crispy.
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3
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and garlic powder. Lightly brush the cut side of each bagel with the oil mixture; this creates a barrier that prevents the sauce from making the bread soggy.
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4
Place the bare bagels in the oven for 3-5 minutes. This 'pre-toast' ensures a sturdy, crunchy base that can hold the heavy toppings.
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5
While the bagels toast, mix the tomato puree, dried oregano, and honey in a small bowl. Stir well to combine.
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6
Remove the bagels from the oven. Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of sauce onto each bagel half, spreading it nearly to the edges but leaving a small border for the 'crust'.
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7
Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the sauce, followed by a light dusting of grated Parmesan for a salty kick.
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8
Add your mini pepperoni slices and diced bell peppers. Press the toppings lightly into the cheese so they don't fall off during baking.
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9
Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Watch for the cheese to become bubbly and slightly golden brown.
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10
For an extra crispy finish, turn on the broiler for the last 60 seconds of cooking, but watch closely to prevent burning.
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11
Remove from the oven and let the pizza bagels rest for 2-3 minutes. This allows the cheese to set so it doesn't slide off when bitten.
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12
Garnish with fresh torn basil and serve while warm and gooey.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always pre-toast your bagels for 3-5 minutes before adding sauce to avoid a 'mushy' center. Use low-moisture mozzarella rather than fresh buffalo mozzarella to prevent excess water from pooling on the bagel. If using watery vegetables like mushrooms or onions, sauté them briefly beforehand to remove moisture. Let the kids assemble their own; providing small bowls of toppings makes this a fun, interactive kitchen activity. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for 3 minutes to regain the crunch.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of crisp carrot sticks and cucumber slices with ranch dipping sauce. Pair with a glass of cold sparkling apple cider for a fancy 'kid-friendly' celebration meal. Accompany with a simple Caesar salad to add some fresh greens to the plate. Offer a side of warm marinara sauce for those who love extra dipping action. Finish the meal with a small fruit kebab for a refreshing sweet contrast.