Instructions:
1. **Prepare the bagels:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice each bagel in half horizontally. You’ll have 8 bagel halves.
2. **Arrange on a baking sheet:** Place the bagel halves cut-side up on a baking sheet. For easy cleanup, you can line the sheet with parchment paper.
3. **Spread the sauce:** Spoon about 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce onto each bagel half, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
4. **Add cheese:** Generously sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce on each bagel half.
5. **Time for toppings (optional):** If using, now is the time to add your favorite toppings. Don’t overload them, or the bagels might get soggy.
6. **Bake to perfection:** Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown, and the bagel edges are slightly crispy. Keep a close eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
7. **Cool slightly and serve:** Once done, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the pizza bagels cool for a few minutes before serving, as the cheese will be very hot. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Short Tips:
* **Toasting the bagels first:** For an even crispier base, lightly toast the bagel halves in a toaster or under the broiler for 1-2 minutes before adding the sauce and toppings. This helps prevent them from getting soggy.
* **Don’t over-sauce:** Too much sauce can make the bagels soggy. A thin, even layer is perfect.
* **Get creative with toppings:** This recipe is incredibly versatile! Use up leftover cooked meats or veggies, or try different cheese blends like provolone or cheddar for a unique flavor.
* **Freezing for later:** Assemble the pizza bagels (without baking), then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake from frozen at the same temperature, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
* **Air fryer option:** You can also make these in an air fryer! Place them in a single layer and cook at 350°F (175°C) for 4-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Exact time will depend on your air fryer model.
