These creamy bacon cheddar bagels are a tasty treat! They’re packed with rich cheese and crispy bacon, making them a perfect breakfast or snack.
Who can resist warm bagels topped with gooey cheese and crunchy bacon? I love having them for breakfast. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee, and you’re in for a cozy morning!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bagels: Plain bagels work best for this recipe, adding a chewy texture. If you can’t find plain, try everything bagels for extra flavor or whole grain bagels for a healthier twist.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is crucial for that creamy base. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold taste, but you can swap it with mild cheddar or even pepper jack for some spice. It’s fun to experiment!
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a savory crunch. Feel free to use turkey bacon for a lower-fat option or even crispy fried mushrooms for a vegetarian alternative.
Chives: While chives are optional, they brighten up the dish. If you don’t have chives, try green onions or parsley for a fresh touch.
How Do I Get My Bacon Perfectly Crispy?
Getting the bacon just right is key to this dish. Start by cooking your bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Patience is everything here. Cook until golden and crispy, about 6-8 minutes.
- Let the bacon drain on paper towels. This keeps it crispy and removes excess grease.
- Once cooled, crumble it gently to incorporate into the cream cheese mixture.
This technique keeps the bacon crunchy, giving a delightful contrast to the creamy spread on the bagels!
How to Make Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagel Base:
- 4 plain bagels, sliced in half
For the Creamy Mixture:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast or snack takes about 20 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking and preparing the ingredients, and 10 minutes assembling and toasting the bagels. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bacon:
Start by cooking the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat. Cook them until they are crispy, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once they are done, place them on paper towels to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small bits.
2. Create the Creamy Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Use a fork or hand mixer to beat everything until it’s smooth and creamy.
3. Add Cheese and Bacon:
Stir in 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and most of the crumbled bacon into your creamy mixture, leaving some bacon and cheese aside for topping later.
4. Toast the Bagels:
Lightly toast the bagel halves to your liking. Make sure they’re just golden enough to add a nice crunch.
5. Assemble the Bagels:
Spread a generous amount of the creamy bacon cheddar mixture onto each toasted bagel half. Don’t be shy—make it nice and thick!
6. Add More Toppings:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top of each bagel. If you like, you can also sprinkle chopped fresh chives for a pop of color and flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy bacon cheddar bagels immediately while they’re warm and delicious. They’re perfect for breakfast or a fun snack any time of day!
Can I Use Different Types of Bagels?
Absolutely! While plain bagels are classic, you can use everything bagels for added flavor or whole grain bagels for a healthier option. Get creative based on your taste preferences!
How Can I Store Any Leftover Bacon Cheddar Mixture?
If you have leftover creamy bacon cheddar mixture, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply spread it on fresh bagels when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily substitute the bacon with crispy fried mushrooms or even tempeh bacon for a delicious vegetarian option. The cream cheese and cheddar will still provide that rich flavor!
What Can I Serve with These Bagels?
These creamy bacon cheddar bagels are great on their own, but you can enhance your meal by serving them with fresh fruit, a side salad, or a warm soup for a complete breakfast or lunch!
