These Bacon Cream Cheese Bagels are a tasty treat! Imagine soft bagels spread with creamy cheese and topped with crispy bacon. Yum!
They’re perfect for breakfast or a snack when you need a little pick-me-up. I can’t resist adding extra bacon—I mean, who can say no to that crispy goodness? 🥓
Making these is super easy! Just toast the bagels, spread the cream cheese, and add the bacon. You’ve got a delicious meal in minutes, and they’ll be gone in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bagels: Plain bagels are the base for this recipe. You can swap them for everything bagels if you enjoy extra flavor. Consider whole grain or gluten-free bagels if you prefer healthier options or need to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Cream Cheese: Regular cream cheese is perfect for spreading. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan cream cheese instead. I’ve found it works just as well in this recipe!
Chives or Parsley: Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor. Chives lend a slight onion flavor, while parsley offers freshness. You can also use green onions or dill if you’re in the mood for something different.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a rich taste. If you’re looking for a healthier version, turkey bacon is a great alternative. Vegans can try using crispy chickpeas or tempeh bacon for a unique twist.
Cheddar Cheese: Adding cheddar is optional, but it definitely enhances flavor. You can replace it with mozzarella or omit it entirely if preferred.
How Do I Cook Bacon Perfectly for My Bagels?
Getting crispy bacon is key to the deliciousness of your bagels. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a skillet over medium heat, which allows the fat to render out. Patience is key here!
- Cook the bacon until it’s deep brown and crispy, usually 8-10 minutes depending on thickness. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Transfer cooked bacon to paper towels. This helps soak up excess grease and keeps it crispy.
- Once cooled, chop it into small pieces for easy topping on your bagels.
Bacon Cream Cheese Bagels Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagels:
- 4 plain bagels, sliced in half
For the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bacon:
- 8 slices bacon
Optional Topping:
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10-15 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at around 25-30 minutes before you can enjoy your delicious Bacon Cream Cheese Bagels!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This makes for easy cleanup later!
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until they become crispy. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Transfer the cooked bacon to paper towels to drain any excess grease. Once it’s cooled down a bit, chop it into small pieces.
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped chives or parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a fork or a spatula to mix everything together until it’s smooth and well blended.
4. Assemble the Bagels:
Take each bagel half and spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture on the cut side. Make sure to spread it evenly for the best taste!
5. Add the Bacon:
Next, sprinkle the chopped bacon over the cream cheese on each bagel half. Try to distribute the bacon evenly so every bite is delicious!
6. (Optional) Add Cheddar Cheese:
If you want an extra cheesy flavor, sprinkle a little shredded cheddar cheese on top of the bacon. This step is totally optional, but highly recommended!
7. Bake the Bagels:
Place the bagel halves on the prepared baking sheet and pop them in the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cream cheese is warmed through and the bagels start to get golden and slightly toasted at the edges.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, take the bagels out and garnish with additional chopped chives or parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Bacon Cream Cheese Bagels!
Can I Use Different Types of Bagels?
Absolutely! While this recipe works great with plain bagels, you can also use everything bagels for added flavor, or even whole grain or gluten-free options if you prefer.
How Can I Store Leftover Bagels?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon and substitute it with crispy chickpeas or tempeh bacon for a delightful vegetarian option. You can also load up on extra veggies for added texture and flavor!
Can I Make the Cream Cheese Mixture Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the cream cheese mixture a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to spread it on the bagels. Stir well before using to ensure it’s smooth!