📝 About This Recipe
Transform the humble morning bagel into a crispy, cheesy masterpiece that kids and adults alike will adore. These miniature mains offer the perfect ratio of chewy crust to zesty tomato sauce and gooey melted mozzarella, creating a nostalgic comfort food experience. Whether it's a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend activity, these customizable rounds are the ultimate canvas for culinary creativity.
🥗 Ingredients
The Pizza Base
- 8 pieces Plain Mini Bagels (sliced in half to make 16 rounds)
- 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for brushing)
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder (to season the crust)
The Signature Sauce
- 1 cup Tomato Sauce or Marinara (thick consistency works best)
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon Honey (to balance the acidity)
The Cheesy Layers
- 2 cups Low-Moisture Shredded Mozzarella (melts more evenly than fresh)
- 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (for a salty kick)
Toppings and Garnish
- 1/2 cup Mini Pepperoni Slices
- 1/4 cup Bell Peppers (finely diced)
- 4-5 pieces Fresh Basil Leaves (torn for garnish)
- 1/4 cup Mild Italian Sausage (cooked and crumbled)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
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2
Slice each mini bagel in half horizontally. Place the halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
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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 moisture barrier so the bagels don't get soggy.
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4
Place the bare bagels in the oven for 3-4 minutes. This 'pre-toast' ensures a crispy foundation for your toppings.
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5
While the bagels toast, mix the tomato sauce, dried oregano, and honey in a small bowl until well combined.
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6
Remove the bagels from the oven. Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of sauce onto each bagel half, spreading it to the edges but leaving a tiny rim for the 'crust'.
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7
Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella over the sauce, followed by a light dusting of Parmesan cheese.
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8
Add your desired toppings. For kids, try making 'faces' using pepperoni for eyes and bell pepper strips for smiles.
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9
Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and starting to turn golden brown.
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10
For an extra crispy finish, turn on the broiler for the last 60 seconds, watching very closely to prevent burning.
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11
Remove from the oven and let the pizzas 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 if desired and serve while warm.
💡 Chef's Tips
Pre-toasting the bagels is the secret to avoiding a gummy texture; never skip this step! Use low-moisture mozzarella rather than fresh buffalo mozzarella to prevent excess water from pooling on the bagel. If using veggies like mushrooms or onions, sauté them briefly beforehand to deepen their flavor and remove moisture. Let the kids assemble their own; providing small bowls of different toppings makes it an interactive 'pizza bar' experience. 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 alongside crisp carrot and celery sticks with a side of creamy ranch dressing for dipping. Pair with a simple Caesar salad to add some fresh greens to the meal. Offer a side of warm marinara sauce for those who love 'double dipping' their crusts. Complement the meal with a refreshing glass of homemade lemonade or fruit-infused water. For a fun dessert pairing, serve with a small bowl of sliced grapes or apple wedges.