Breakfast is often described as the most important meal of the day, but it doesn’t have to be boring. Combining two beloved food items—pizza and bagels—results in a fun, delicious, and satisfying option: breakfast pizza bagels. These little treats take the familiar comfort of a pizza and transform it into a breakfast-appropriate dish using bagels as the base. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for busy mornings when you want something both filling and quick.

One standout feature of breakfast pizza bagels is the use of turkey bacon as a healthier alternative to traditional pork bacon. Turkey bacon is lower in fat and calories while still offering that salty, savory flavor that people love. By incorporating turkey bacon, you can enjoy all the flavors of a classic breakfast pizza without the added guilt, making it a nutritious option that fits into a balanced diet.

History of Breakfast Pizza and Bagels

Both pizza and bagels have a long history in culinary culture. Breakfast pizza, traditionally made with eggs, cheese, and bacon or sausage, became a staple in diners and home kitchens over the years. Bagels, on the other hand, have been a breakfast favorite for centuries. The combination of these two trends resulted in the rise of breakfast pizza bagels, offering a unique twist on a traditional morning meal.

Why Turkey Bacon is a Healthier Choice for Breakfast

Nutritional Benefits of Turkey Bacon Over Regular Bacon

Turkey bacon stands out as a healthier option compared to traditional pork bacon, primarily due to its lower fat and calorie content. On average, a slice of turkey bacon contains about half the fat of regular bacon, making it a lighter choice for those watching their intake of saturated fats. Additionally, turkey bacon tends to be lower in calories, making it a great option for those looking to reduce their calorie consumption while still enjoying a savory breakfast.

Turkey bacon is also a good source of protein, which helps keep you full longer and supports muscle maintenance. Some brands of turkey bacon even offer lower sodium versions, making it a better choice for those concerned about high blood pressure or salt intake.

Turkey Bacon’s Role in a Balanced Breakfast

Incorporating turkey bacon into breakfast pizza bagels adds protein without the heaviness often associated with traditional pork bacon. Its leaner profile means you can enjoy a hearty, satisfying breakfast that provides essential nutrients without feeling weighed down. Paired with whole grains (from the bagel) and vegetables, turkey bacon helps create a well-rounded, nutritious meal that supports a balanced diet and promotes sustained energy throughout the morning.

Ingredients and Equipment Needed for Breakfast Pizza Bagels

Main Ingredients

Turkey Bacon: Choose lean, minimally processed turkey bacon for the healthiest option. Popular brands include Applegate, Butterball, and Jennie-O, all of which offer tasty and low-fat varieties.
Bagels: Select from a variety of bagel options like whole wheat for added fiber, plain for a neutral base, or flavored varieties such as everything or sesame for extra taste.
Cheese Options: Mozzarella is a classic choice for its meltability, but cheddar, provolone, or a cheese blend can also be used for added flavor. Low-fat or dairy-free cheese alternatives are great options for dietary preferences.
Tomato Sauce or Marinara: Use a basic pizza sauce or marinara as a base. Opt for low-sugar varieties to keep it healthier.
Toppings: Consider fresh vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or tomatoes. Herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the flavor, while seasoning such as garlic powder or red pepper flakes adds a little extra kick.

Equipment

Baking Sheet: A standard baking sheet for assembling and cooking the pizza bagels.
Oven or Air Fryer: Either method works for baking or crisping the bagels.
Spatula: Handy for flipping or removing the pizza bagels from the baking sheet or air fryer.

Ingredient Customization for Dietary Needs

Gluten-Free Bagels: For those with gluten intolerance, gluten-free bagels can be easily substituted.
Low-Carb Bagels: Available for keto or low-carb diets.
Dairy-Free Cheese Alternatives: Brands like Daiya or Violife offer great plant-based cheese alternatives for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Breakfast Pizza Bagels with Turkey Bacon

Preparing the Turkey Bacon

Oven-Baked: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place turkey bacon strips on a lined baking sheet and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
Pan-Fried: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook the turkey bacon for about 4-5 minutes per side until crispy.
Air-Fried: Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (190°C). Cook the turkey bacon for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway to avoid overcooking.
Tips for Crispy Yet Tender Turkey Bacon: To achieve a crispy outside while maintaining tenderness, avoid overcrowding the bacon strips on the pan or baking sheet, ensuring even heat distribution.

Preparing the Bagels

Toasting: Slice the bagels in half and lightly toast them in a toaster or under the broiler in the oven. This step adds crunch and prevents the bagel from becoming soggy when topped with sauce and ingredients.

Building the Pizza Bagels

Step-by-Step Assembly:
1. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce or marinara over each toasted bagel half.
2. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella or your preferred cheese on top.
3. Layer the cooked turkey bacon slices evenly on the bagels.
4. For added flavor, top with vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or onions.
5. Optionally, sprinkle herbs like basil, oregano, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

Baking or Air-Frying the Pizza Bagels

Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the assembled bagels on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
Air Fryer Method: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the bagels for 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and the edges of the bagels are crispy.

Final Touches and Serving Suggestions

Final Touches: After removing the bagels from the oven or air fryer, consider adding fresh herbs like chopped basil or an extra sprinkle of cheese for garnish.
Serving Suggestions: Slice each bagel half into bite-sized pieces for easy sharing. These pizza bagels are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack on the go.

Nutritional Information and Health Considerations

Caloric Breakdown

On average, a breakfast pizza bagel with turkey bacon contains approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the size of the bagel, type of cheese, and added toppings. A smaller, whole wheat bagel with light cheese and plenty of veggies will be on the lower end of the calorie range.

Macros: Protein, Carbohydrates, and Fats

Protein: Turkey bacon adds a lean protein boost, with about 10-15 grams per serving. Cheese and bagels contribute additional protein, bringing the total to around 20-25 grams per serving.
Carbohydrates: The bagel provides the bulk of the carbs, typically around 40-50 grams per serving, depending on the type of bagel used.
Fats: Using low-fat turkey bacon and cheese can keep fat content lower, around 10-15 grams per serving.

Tips for Reducing Calories

Low-Calorie Options: Opt for a smaller bagel or thin bagel options to reduce carbs and calories.
Cheese and Sauce: Use light cheese and low-sugar sauce to keep calories in check.
Portion Control: Serve half a bagel with a side of fruit or salad for a more balanced, lower-calorie meal.

Variations and Creative Twists on Breakfast Pizza Bagels

Vegetarian Version

For those who prefer a meatless option, turkey bacon can be swapped with vegetarian alternatives like tempeh bacon or plant-based sausage. These substitutes offer a savory, smoky flavor similar to bacon while keeping the dish plant-based. Simply prepare the tempeh bacon or sausage according to package instructions and assemble the bagels in the same way.

Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly Version

To cater to low-carb or keto diets, use low-carb bagels or cloud bread as a base. These alternatives significantly reduce the carbohydrate content while maintaining the pizza feel. For sauces, opt for a low-carb marinara or sugar-free pizza sauce. Cheese options like full-fat mozzarella or cheddar are ideal for keto-friendly meals, as they offer higher fat content and lower carbs.

Spicy Breakfast Pizza Bagels

Add a kick of heat to your breakfast pizza bagels by incorporating jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or even spicy turkey bacon. Pair the spicy toppings with a drizzle of hot sauce or spicy marinara to amplify the heat. This version is great for those who like bold, zesty flavors in their morning meal.

Sweet and Savory Options

For a unique twist, combine both sweet and savory flavors. Add a drizzle of honey over crispy turkey bacon to bring out a perfect blend of salty and sweet. Alternatively, pair turkey bacon with fruit such as figs or apple slices for a sophisticated contrast that balances the rich flavors of the cheese and sauce with natural sweetness.

Time-Saving Tips for Busy Mornings

Make-Ahead Breakfast Pizza Bagels

For a stress-free morning, prepare your pizza bagels ahead of time. Assemble the bagels with sauce, cheese, and turkey bacon, then cover them and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. In the morning, simply bake or air-fry them for a quick breakfast.

Freezing Instructions

You can also freeze the assembled pizza bagels for longer storage. Place the fully assembled, uncooked pizza bagels on a baking sheet and freeze them for an hour before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, bake the frozen pizza bagels directly from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

Quick Assembly Tips

Save time by using pre-cooked turkey bacon and pre-shredded cheese. This reduces prep time, allowing you to assemble the pizza bagels in minutes and quickly get them in the oven or air fryer for a fast, satisfying meal.

Serving Ideas and Pairings for Breakfast Pizza Bagels

Best Beverages to Serve

Pair your breakfast pizza bagels with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a classic breakfast combination. If you prefer something refreshing, consider serving it alongside a smoothie or fresh-squeezed juice, like orange or apple juice, which complements the savory flavors of the pizza bagels.

Side Dishes to Accompany Breakfast Pizza Bagels

For a more complete meal, serve the pizza bagels with a side of fresh fruit, such as sliced berries, melon, or citrus. A yogurt parfait with granola and honey can also provide a light and nutritious addition. For a more savory pairing, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is an excellent complement to the richness of the pizza bagels.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Breakfast Pizza Bagels

Overloading the Bagels with Toppings

While it’s tempting to pile on toppings, too many can make the bagels soggy and difficult to eat. Stick to a balanced ratio of sauce, cheese, and toppings to keep the bagels crisp and flavorful.

Undercooking or Burning the Turkey Bacon

Turkey bacon can be tricky to cook properly. Avoid undercooking it, which can result in a chewy texture, or overcooking it, which can make it too dry. Aim for a crispy outside with a tender interior, especially if baking or air frying.

Using the Wrong Cheese

Not all cheeses melt the same way. Avoid cheeses that don’t melt easily or can become greasy, like pre-shredded cheeses with added starches. Instead, opt for cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar, which melt smoothly and evenly for a perfect pizza experience.

FAQs on Breakfast Pizza Bagels with Turkey Bacon

Can I make breakfast pizza bagels without cheese?

Yes, you can make breakfast pizza bagels without cheese. Lactose-free or vegan cheese alternatives such as almond or cashew-based cheeses can be used to accommodate dietary preferences or allergies.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover breakfast pizza bagels?

To reheat leftover pizza bagels, the oven or air fryer works best for preserving crispiness. Place the bagels in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes. For an even quicker option, use the air fryer at 370°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes. The microwave can be used but may result in a softer texture.

How long can I store pre-made pizza bagels in the fridge?

Pre-made breakfast pizza bagels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them as needed for a quick meal.

Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?

Yes, you can substitute regular bacon for turkey bacon, but be aware that regular bacon is higher in fat and calories. Turkey bacon offers a healthier alternative while still providing a similar savory flavor.

Can I make a gluten-free version of breakfast pizza bagels?

Yes, simply use gluten-free bagels or gluten-free cloud bread as the base to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten intolerance or Celiac disease.

Breakfast Pizza Bagels

Author: Christophe

Print Recipe

Description

These breakfast pizza bagels are a quick and tasty way to start your day, combining bagels, scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and melty cheese for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

3 plain bagels, sliced
6 large eggs, beaten
⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
10 fully cooked bacon slices, crumbled
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 415°F (213°C).

2️⃣ Prepare the bagels:
Place the sliced bagels on an ungreased cookie sheet and set them aside.

3️⃣ Scramble the eggs:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and scramble the eggs until fully cooked.

4️⃣ Assemble the pizza bagels:
Remove the eggs from the heat and evenly distribute them over the sliced bagels. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top of the scrambled eggs.

5️⃣ Add the cheese:
In a bowl, toss together the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Sprinkle the cheese mixture over the bacon and eggs on each bagel.

6️⃣ Bake the bagels:
Place the assembled bagels in the oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7️⃣ Cool and serve:
Let the pizza bagels cool slightly before serving, as they will be extremely hot right out of the oven.

Notes

Customizations: Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.