These Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels are a tasty treat! With rich cream cheese, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar, they’re perfect for breakfast or a snack.
I love how easy they are to whip up. Just mix, spread, and toast—then watch them vanish! Don’t blame me if you eat more than one! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bagels: I recommend using plain bagels for a classic base, but everything bagels create a fun twist. You could also try whole wheat or onion bagels if you prefer a different flavor.
Cream Cheese: Standard cream cheese works great. For a lighter option, you might use reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt for creaminess. I like adding a touch of sour cream for extra tang.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a bold taste, but feel free to swap it with medium or mild cheddar. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pepper jack for a spicy kick!
Bacon: Crispy bacon is the star here. If you’re vegetarian, you can use a plant-based bacon substitute or even sautéed mushrooms for that umami flavor. Personally, I love using turkey bacon for a leaner choice.
Green Onions/Chives: These add a fresh note, but if you don’t have them, consider using finely chopped garlic or even a dash of dried herbs like thyme or parsley for variation.
How Can I Successfully Mix and Bake This Creamy Mixture?
Getting that creamy blend right is crucial! Start with all your ingredients at room temperature, especially the cream cheese, so it mixes easily. Here’s how to do it:
- In a mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and use a hand mixer or spatula to blend it till smooth.
- Gradually mix in the cheddar cheese, bacon, and condiments until everything is evenly combined—this will take a couple of minutes.
- Once your mixture is creamy, spread it generously on each bagel half. Don’t skimp on this part!
When baking, keep an eye on the bagels around the 10-minute mark. You want them bubbly and lightly toasted, not overdone. Let them rest for a few moments after taking them out, as they’ll be super hot!
How to Make Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bagels:
- 4 plain bagels, halved
For The Creamy Mixture:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp finely chopped green onion or chives (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Everything bagel seasoning (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake, totaling around 25-30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delightful treat for breakfast or a savory snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This will prevent the bagels from sticking during baking.
2. Mix the Creamy Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bacon (remember to save a little for later!), mayonnaise, optional green onion or chives, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well blended and creamy.
3. Prepare the Bagels:
Take your bagel halves and spread a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture over each one, making sure to cover them well. This creamy goodness is what makes them so delightful!
4. Add the Remaining Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of all the bagel halves. This will create a delicious cheesy topping when baked.
5. Garnish and Season:
Top the bagels with the reserved bacon pieces for extra flavor. If you like, sprinkle some everything bagel seasoning on top for added zest and crunch!
6. Bake the Bagels:
Carefully place the bagels on your prepared baking sheet and put them in the oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges of the bagels are lightly toasted. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your warm, creamy, cheesy bagel halves—perfect for any meal or snack time!
Can I Use Different Types of Bagels for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While plain bagels are a classic choice, you can try everything bagels for extra flavor, or even whole wheat bagels if you prefer a healthier option. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary depending on your choice!
How Can I Store Leftover Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps keep them nice and crispy!
Can I Make This Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy mixture in advance. Just store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before assembling the bagels. When ready to use, let it come to room temperature before spreading it on the bagels for easier application!
What’s a Good Substitute for Bacon?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can use plant-based bacon or sautéed mushrooms for a savory flavor. You might also consider crumbled feta or diced sun-dried tomatoes for a tasty twist on the filling!