Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels

Transform your bagel routine with this delicious recipe for Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels. Combining the classic flavors of spinach and artichoke with gooey melted cheese, these bagels make a perfect breakfast, brunch, or snack. Quick to prepare and utterly satisfying, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup finely chopped artichoke hearts
• 1/2 cup finely chopped spinach
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley, plus more for garnish
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, plus more for garnish
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 2 bagels, halved

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a medium baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped artichoke hearts, chopped spinach, 2/3 cup of shredded mozzarella, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir until well combined.
3. Assemble the Bagels: Place the bagel halves cut side up on the prepared baking sheet. Spread the spinach and artichoke mixture evenly over each bagel half. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the bagels are warmed through and the cheese is melted. For a crispier top, broil for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with additional chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

• Warm and Fresh: Serve these Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels warm from the oven for the best flavor and gooey cheese texture. They make a delightful breakfast, brunch, or snack.
• Pairings: Complement with a side of fresh fruit, a light salad, or a cup of soup for a well-rounded meal.
• Customization: Feel free to adjust the level of red pepper flakes to suit your taste. Add extra garnishes like sliced olives or a sprinkle of additional herbs for a personalized touch.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven or toaster for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the baked bagels. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from the freezer, or let thaw before warming in the oven.
• Reheating: Reheat leftover bagels in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melted again. Avoid reheating in the microwave to prevent a soggy texture.

Variations:

1. Mediterranean Bagels:
   • Add Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese to the spinach and artichoke mixture for a Mediterranean twist.
2. Bacon and Cheddar Bagels:
   • Mix in crispy bacon bits and replace some of the mozzarella with sharp cheddar cheese for a smoky, cheesy flavor.
3. Spicy Jalapeño Bagels:
   • Incorporate finely chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the cream cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
4. Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Bagels:
   • Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil to the cream cheese mixture for a burst of rich, aromatic flavors.
5. Pesto Spinach-Artichoke Bagels:
   • Swirl a few tablespoons of basil pesto into the cream cheese mixture for an herby, savory depth.
6. Roasted Red Pepper Bagels:
   • Fold in finely chopped roasted red peppers for a sweet and smoky flavor that complements the spinach and artichoke.
7. Creamy Mushroom Bagels:
   • Sauté some mushrooms and mix them into the cream cheese blend for an earthy, umami-rich addition.
8. Garlic Herb Bagels:
   • Add extra minced garlic and a mix of dried herbs (like thyme or rosemary) to the cream cheese mixture for a more robust flavor profile.
9. Caramelized Onion Bagels:
   • Stir in caramelized onions for a sweet and savory twist that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese.
10. Tomato and Mozzarella Bagels:
    • Layer sliced cherry tomatoes on top of the bagel before adding the cheese for a fresh and juicy flavor, reminiscent of a caprese salad.
11. Pesto and Goat Cheese Bagels:
    • Mix goat cheese into the cream cheese and swirl in some basil pesto for a tangy and herbaceous flavor.
12. Smoked Salmon Bagels:
    • Top the bagels with smoked salmon after baking and garnish with capers and red onion for a classic bagel topping with a twist.
13. Buffalo Chicken Bagels:
    • Stir shredded cooked chicken tossed in buffalo sauce into the cream cheese mixture for a spicy, tangy variation.
14. Cranberry and Walnut Bagels:
    • Add dried cranberries and chopped walnuts to the cream cheese blend for a sweet and crunchy contrast.
15. Zucchini and Feta Bagels:
    • Incorporate grated zucchini and crumbled feta cheese into the cream cheese mixture for a light and savory option.
16. BBQ Chicken Bagels:
    • Use BBQ sauce instead of Dijon mustard in the cream cheese mixture and add shredded BBQ chicken for a smoky, tangy flavor.
17. Cheddar and Jalapeño Bagels:
    • Mix diced jalapeños and extra sharp cheddar cheese into the cream cheese mixture for a spicy and cheesy kick.
18. Herbed Cream Cheese Bagels:
    • Blend a mix of fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and dill) into the cream cheese for a fragrant and flavorful spread.

FAQs:

1. Can I use regular bagels instead of whole wheat or other types?
   • Yes, you can use any type of bagel you prefer. Whole wheat or multi-grain bagels can be a healthier alternative, but traditional plain or sesame bagels work perfectly too.
2. Can I make these bagels ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble and bake the bagels just before serving.
3. Can I freeze these bagels?
   • Yes, you can freeze the baked bagels. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven before serving.
4. What can I use instead of cream cheese?
   • You can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese as a lighter alternative to cream cheese. These substitutes will provide a similar creamy texture but with a different flavor profile.
5. How can I make these bagels vegetarian?
   • The recipe is already vegetarian. Just ensure the bagels and cheeses you use are free of animal rennet or other animal-derived ingredients if you want to maintain a strict vegetarian diet.
6. Can I add protein to these bagels?
   • Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken, turkey, or bacon bits to the cream cheese mixture for added protein.
7. How do I make these bagels spicier?
   • Add more crushed red pepper flakes or incorporate finely chopped fresh chili peppers into the cream cheese mixture to increase the heat.
8. Can I use frozen spinach and artichoke hearts?
   • Yes, you can use frozen spinach and artichoke hearts. Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the mixture.
9. What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
   • If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can use dried parsley, though fresh is preferred for a brighter flavor. You can also substitute with other fresh herbs like basil or chives.
10. Can I use a different type of cheese?
    • Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses. For instance, gouda, fontina, or provolone can add unique flavors. Just be sure to use cheese that melts well for the best results.