Bagel bites make a quick and fun option for lunch, especially when you’re short on time. These bagels are topped with savoury pizza flavours like tomato paste, cheese, and sometimes pepperoni, offering a bite-sized twist on a classic favorite. They’re easy to heat in the air fryer, making them convenient for kids, busy adults, or anyone craving a simple, satisfying meal. Pair them with a side salad, some fresh fruit, or this creamy cauliflower soup, and you’ve got a fast lunch that feels both playful and filling.
In this blog post, you will learn how to make bagel bites.
Take your plain bagels and slice them in half.

Spread the tomato past on both sides of the bagels.

Place the pepperoni slices on top then add the chorizo on top. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the meat.

Place into the air fryer and fry for about 5 minutes.

Remove from the air fryer and enjoy!
Because this lunch idea is so easy to make, I would recommend making them then eating them right away.
However, you can keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Plain Bagels: plain bagels are the base of the recipe, providing a chewy, sturdy foundation for all the toppings. Try making my own Plain Homemade Bagels!
Tomato Paste: tomato paste acts as the pizza-style sauce, adding rich, tangy flavor to the mini bites.
Mini Slices of Pepperoni: the mini slices of pepperoni bring a savoury, slightly spicy kick and classic pizza taste.
Chorizo: chorizo adds bold, smoky flavor and extra protein, giving the bites a flavorful twist.
Cheddar Cheese (grated): cheddar cheese melts into a gooey, golden topping that holds everything together and adds cheesy richness.

Author: Sarah Young
Can you make bagel bites in the air fryer?
Yes! Air frying bagel bites is a quick and easy way to cook them. The air fryer helps create a crispy outside while keeping the center warm and soft.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating isn’t always necessary, but it can help the bagel bites cook more evenly and become crispy around the edges.
Can I use frozen bagel bites in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Frozen bagel bites can be cooked directly in the air fryer without thawing first. This also makes them a convenient option for a quick breakfast, snack, or lunch.
Do I need to add oil to bagel bites?
Usually, no additional oil is needed. Bagel bites generally contain enough ingredients to brown nicely in the air fryer without adding extra oil.
Can I make homemade bagel bites in the air fryer?
Yes! Homemade bagel bites are easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings, cheeses, meats, and vegetables before air frying.
Can I use different toppings?
Definitely! Try mozzarella, cheddar, pepperoni, cooked bacon, sausage, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, or your favorite pizza toppings.
How do I prevent the bagel bites from getting too hard?
Avoid overcooking them. Check them toward the end of the cooking time and remove them once the edges are golden and the cheese is melted.
How do I reheat leftover bagel bites?
Reheat them in the air fryer at around 325–350°F (165–175°C) until warmed through. This helps restore some of the crispy texture better than microwaving.
What can I serve with air fryer bagel bites?
Air fryer bagel bites are great on their own or served with fruit, yogurt, scrambled eggs, a green salad, or your favorite dipping sauce. They’re perfect for breakfast, lunch, snacks, or an easy appetizer.