Stuffed Bagels Recipe

Bagels taken to the next level! This Stuffed Bagels Recipe is a comforting, cheesy delight that transforms everyday bagels into a gooey, melty, garlic-buttery experience—all in under 20 minutes! Perfect for a quick breakfast, snack, or even a cozy dinner side, these bagels are a simple culinary joy. Grab your air fryer and let’s make magic happen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: No complicated steps here—6 simple ingredients and 20 minutes are all you need.
• Cheesy Goodness: Ooey-gooey cream cheese inside, with a blanket of mozzarella and Parmesan on top. Need I say more?
• Customizable: Swap flavors, add toppings, or even pick a new type of bagel—it’s a choose-your-own-adventure for your taste buds.
• Perfect for Any Time of Day: Whether you’re fueling up for the morning, snacking midday, or serving a side with dinner, these stuffed bagels fit the bill.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s break it down—because these are everyday ingredients with superstar potential:

• Plain Bagels: The blank canvas! But feel free to swap in everything bagels or sesame for extra flavor.
• Cream Cheese (Softened): The creamy core that holds it all together. Whip it up for an ultra-fluffy filling you’ll love.
• Butter (Melted): Gives you that golden, irresistible finish when paired with garlic.
• Garlic (Minced or Powdered): For that bold hit of flavor. Fresh is great, but garlic powder works fine if you’re in a pinch.
• Fresh Parsley: A little herby freshness goes a long way. Skip it if you don’t have any, or substitute dried parsley.
• Parmesan Cheese (Grated): Adds a savory, nutty kick to your topping.
• Shredded Mozzarella: Because more cheese is always a good idea. Melty, stretchy goodness like no other.

Pro Tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using flavored cream cheese like herb and garlic for an added twist!

Variations

Feeling creative? Here’s how you can make this recipe your own:

• Add a Protein Boost: Toss in cooked crumbled bacon, sausage, or smoked salmon into the cream cheese. Game. Changer.
• Make It Sweet: Swap the garlic butter topping with cinnamon sugar and drizzle some honey or maple syrup after baking for a decadent, dessert-like spin.
• Go Veggie Crazy: Fold finely chopped veggies like bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or spinach into the cream cheese mix for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Herb Explosion: Layer in some chopped basil, thyme, or even chili flakes for a bold, herby upgrade.

How to Make Stuffed Bagels

Step 1: Prepare Your Bagels

Carefully make 3 evenly spaced cuts across the tops of each bagel. Don’t cut all the way through—you want those sections to stay connected. Think of it as creating little pockets for the cream cheese filling to snuggle into.

Step 2: Whip the Cream Cheese

Using a hand mixer, whip that softened cream cheese until it’s light and fluffy—this is the secret to getting that creamy perfection. Transfer the cream cheese to a piping bag (or a sturdy resealable bag with the corner snipped off). Pipe the cream cheese generously into each pocket of the bagel.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter

Whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley in a small bowl. Brush this luscious mixture over the tops of your bagels—it’s like flavor insurance.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella over the brushed bagels. Don’t hold back—this is where the melty, golden magic happens.

Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection

Place your stuffed and prepped bagels into a preheated air fryer at 350℉. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly. Let them cool slightly before diving in.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Bagel Cutting: Use a serrated knife for clean cuts and to avoid squishing your bagel.
• No Piping Bag? No Problem!: A sturdy zip-top bag with the corner snipped off works just fine for piping.
• Watch the Air Fryer: Cooking time can vary by brand, so keep an eye out during the last couple of minutes to avoid over-browning.
• Fluff That Cream Cheese: Whipping it with a hand mixer makes it oh-so-light and easier to pipe. It’s worth the tiny bit of extra effort!

How to Serve

These stuffed bagels are versatile enough to serve with just about anything. Here are some ideas:

• Breakfast Spread: Pair with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or a fresh fruit salad.
• Snack Attack: Serve on their own for midday munchies or alongside a bowl of hearty tomato soup.
• Party-Ready: These are a hit at gatherings! Cut into wedges and serve as appetizers with a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara.
• Side Dish: Pair with a fresh salad or even pasta for a cheesy, garlicky sidekick.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing

Want to save some for later? Wrap each stuffed bagel in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 1 month.

Reheating

Reheat stuffed bagels in an air fryer at 300℉ for a few minutes, or in the oven at 350℉ until warmed through and the cheese is melted.

FAQs

Can I use an oven instead of an air fryer?
Absolutely! Simply preheat your oven to 375℉ and bake the bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden.

Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Of course! Herb and garlic cream cheese, chive, or even jalapeño-flavored cream cheese would taste amazing.

What type of bagel works best?
Plain bagels are great, but any sturdy bagel will do. Everything bagels, sesame, or even onion bagels will add extra layers of flavor.

Can I skip the Parmesan or Mozzarella?
Sure, though you’ll lose some of that cheesy goodness! You can substitute with cheddar, provolone, or your favorite melt-worthy cheese.

Final Thoughts

These Stuffed Bagels are a testament to how the simplest ingredients can transform into something extraordinary. With their crispy, golden exterior, gooey cheese topping, and creamy stuffed interior, they’ll make you wonder why you haven’t been making these all your life. So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your air fryer, and treat yourself (and maybe your loved ones) to this cheesy, garlicky perfection today!

Print