Bacon Cream Cheese Bagels are a tasty breakfast treat that combines crispy bacon and creamy cheese in a toasted bagel. They are easy to make and truly delicious!
Who can resist the smell of bacon in the morning? I always enjoy them fresh out of the oven with a cup of coffee. Perfect start to the day—and maybe lunch too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Plain Bagels: I love using plain bagels as the base because their neutral flavor lets the toppings shine. If you want to switch it up, try everything bagels for an extra flavor boost, or whole grain bagels for a healthier option.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese is key for that smooth and creamy texture. If you’re dairy-free, you can use a plant-based cream cheese substitute, which works well here too. For a fun twist, flavored cream cheese options (like herb or garlic) can add extra taste.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds that crunch and savory flavor. You can use turkey bacon for a lighter version or even crispy pancetta if you’re feeling fancy. If you want a vegetarian option, crispy fried shallots make a great substitute.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives a classic taste, but feel free to try other cheeses. Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack add a nice kick, or you could go with a vegan cheese for a dairy-free version. My personal favorite is a mix of cheddar and gouda!
Chives: Fresh chives add a lovely oniony note. If you don’t have them, green onions work too. Dried herbs can substitute in a pinch, but fresh really brightens the dish up!
How Do I Prepare and Cook the Bacon for My Bagels?
Cooking the bacon right is essential for great flavor and texture. Start with a skillet on medium heat. It’s best to cook until crispy without burning, as it adds that perfect crunch to your bagels. Here’s how to do it:
- Place the bacon strips in a cold skillet, then turn on the heat to medium. This helps render the fat slowly.
- Cook the bacon for about 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally until it’s golden and crispy. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
- Once done, transfer it to paper towels to drain excess grease before chopping into small pieces.
Take your time with this step. Crisp bacon makes a big difference in your bagels, so don’t rush it! Enjoy the aroma while you cook!
How to Make Bacon Cream Cheese Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 4 plain bagels (sliced in half)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
Delicious Toppings:
- 6-8 strips of bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives (optional)
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Greasing:
- Cooking spray or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total—10 minutes for preparation and about 15-20 minutes for baking. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a tasty breakfast or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for ensuring that your bagels bake evenly. While that’s heating up, grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon strips until they are crispy. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the bacon on paper towels to soak up excess grease, then chop it into small pieces. This crispy bacon will add lots of flavor to your bagels!
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with garlic powder and black pepper. Mix with a fork or a hand mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This garlic cream cheese will be the star of your bagels!
4. Assemble the Bagels:
Take each bagel half and spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture on top. Be sure to cover the bagel well for maximum flavor!
5. Add Cheese and Bacon:
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the cream cheese layer on each bagel half. Then, distribute the chopped bacon pieces on top of the cheese. It’s getting delicious already!
6. Bake the Bagels:
Place all the bagel halves on the prepared baking sheet and pop them into the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden. Keep an eye on them towards the end to make sure they don’t over-bake!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re done baking, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Sprinkle with chopped fresh chives if you’re using them for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your tasty Bacon Cream Cheese Bagels!
Can I Use Different Types of Bagels?
Absolutely! While plain bagels are great for this recipe, feel free to get creative with everything bagels or asiago bagels for added flavor. Whole grain bagels also make for a healthier option!
What Can I Use Instead of Bacon?
If you’re looking for a healthier or vegetarian alternative, turkey bacon works well. For a fully vegetarian option, try using crispy fried shallots or diced mushrooms sautéed until crisp. Both can add great crunch and flavor!
Can I Make These Bagels in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the bagels up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to a day. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven. They may need an extra minute or two of baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftover Bagels?
Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty again.