Description
A simple, kid-approved snack or lunch made with toasted bagels, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and a side of warm marinara dip. Perfect for meal prep and minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large bagels (or 4 small/half bagels), sliced in half
- 1 cup (240ml) marinara sauce
- 1 cup (100g) low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup sliced pepperoni
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted (optional, for brushing)
- Optional add-ins: cooked crumbled sausage, sliced mushrooms, sliced olives, fresh chopped basil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice bagels in half horizontally and pat dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness.
- Place bagel halves cut-side up on a baking sheet. Brush lightly with melted butter if using.
- Toast bagels in the oven for 3-4 minutes until lightly golden and dry.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder on each half.
- Return to oven and bake for 5-6 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- While bagels bake, warm the marinara sauce in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or in a small pot on the stove.
- Remove bagels from oven and let cool for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve immediately with warm marinara dip on the side for dipping.
Notes
Pre-toasting the bagels is crucial to prevent sogginess. Use low-moisture mozzarella for best melting results. Bagels can be assembled ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. For gluten-free or dairy-free options, use appropriate substitutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bagel half with 2
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 580
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 32
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 12
Keywords: mini pizza bagels, kid friendly snacks, easy lunch ideas, meal prep, pizza dip, quick dinner, homemade pizza