Let’s be real—some nights dinner just needs to be fast, fun, and guaranteed to make everyone happy. That’s where Homemade Pizza Bagels come in.

I grew up eating the frozen ones (hello, 90s), but now I make them from scratch in less time than it takes to preheat the oven. They’re endlessly customizable, freezer-friendly, and seriously a life-saver when my kids are “starving” five minutes after school.

Whether it’s a quick lunch, easy dinner, or fun Friday night activity, these pizza bagels always hit the spot—without the fuss.

Ingredients (makes 6 bagels / 12 halves):

• 6 plain bagels, halved

• 1/2 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup mini pepperoni or chopped pepperoni

• Optional toppings: mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, onions, sausage, pineapple

• Optional garnish: dried oregano, red pepper flakes, fresh basil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Assemble the bagels: Place halved bagels on the baking sheet, cut side up. Spread a spoonful of sauce on each half.

3. Add toppings: Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and top with your favorite pizza toppings.

4. Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and edges are golden.

5. Cool & serve: Let cool for a couple minutes, then serve warm with a big salad or fresh fruit on the side.

Sarah’s Tips & Swaps:

• Make it a freezer meal: Assemble bagels and freeze before baking. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 15–18 minutes.

• Low-carb option: Try using mini bell pepper halves or portobello mushrooms instead of bagels.

• Kid tip: Set up a “pizza bar” and let everyone decorate their own bagel!

• Dairy-free? Use plant-based cheese—still melty and delicious!

Flavorful Conclusion:

These pizza bagels are one of those back-pocket meals you’ll turn to again and again. They’re nostalgic, crowd-pleasing, and crazy simple—proof that dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be really good.

Nutrition (Per Bagel Half – makes 12 servings):

• Calories: 180

• Protein: 9g

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Fat: 8g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 2g

• Sodium: 410mg