If you’re craving a snack that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with vibrant greens and a touch of spice, the Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels Recipe is your new best friend. This dish transforms everyday bagels into irresistible bites loaded with a luscious blend of cream cheese, spinach, artichoke hearts, and a melty mozzarella-Parmesan topping. Whether you’re whipping up a quick lunch or treating yourself to a cozy, satisfying snack, these bagels deliver a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in crafting that iconic creamy, cheesy filling and the satisfying melty topping. Every element combines to create layers of flavor that are both comforting and fresh.
- Cream cheese, 8 oz. (softened): The creamy base that ties the filling together with richness and smooth texture.
- Artichoke hearts, 1/2 cup (finely chopped): Adds a tender bite and subtle tangy depth.
- Spinach, 1/2 cup (finely chopped): Brings a fresh, earthy note and vibrant color.
- Mozzarella, 1 cup (shredded, divided): Provides gooey, stretchy cheese magic for mixing in and sprinkling on top.
- Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup (freshly grated): Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the cheesy blend.
- Garlic clove, 1 (minced): Infuses the mixture with warm, aromatic spice.
- Parsley, 1 tablespoon (chopped, plus more for garnish): Offers a fresh, herbal kick and pretty green flecks.
- Crushed red pepper flakes, 1/2 teaspoon (plus more for garnish): Delivers just the right amount of heat to brighten the dish.
- Kosher salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle, peppery spice.
- Bagels, 2 (halved): The sturdy, chewy vessel that holds all that cheesy spinach-artichoke goodness.
How to Make Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Get Ready
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a baking tray by lining it with parchment paper—it’s a small step that makes cleanup a total breeze and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Filling
In a spacious bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped artichoke hearts and spinach, two-thirds of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and a tablespoon of parsley. Add crushed red pepper flakes to introduce that gentle heat, then season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mixing everything thoroughly ensures every bite bursts with balanced flavor.
Step 3: Spread Over Bagel Halves
Lay the halved bagels face-up on your lined baking tray, making sure they’re evenly spaced. Now, lovingly smear that creamy spinach-artichoke filling over each half, covering the surface in an even layer that’s thick enough to be hearty but not so thick the bagel loses its crunch.
Step 4: Add Mozzarella and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella on top of the spread to create that all-important melty, cheesy crust. Pop the tray into the oven and bake for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until everything is heated through and the cheese is deliciously melted. If you like a bit of extra crispiness and golden-brown bubbling cheese, set your oven to broil for a minute or two—just keep a close eye!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove your bagels from the oven and immediately sprinkle with some freshly chopped parsley and a pinch more of crushed red pepper flakes. This final flourish adds freshness and a vibrant pop of color before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkling of fresh parsley and a dash of red pepper flakes aren’t just pretty—they lift the flavors of the Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels Recipe by adding bright, herbal notes and a touch of spicy excitement. You can also scatter some extra grated Parmesan on top for a little salty punch.
Side Dishes
Pair these bagels with a crisp garden salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. A bowl of tomato soup or a chilled cucumber salad also creates a lovely contrast that makes the entire meal feel complete and thoughtfully put together.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the bagels into smaller wedges for party-friendly finger foods or serve alongside a fresh fruit platter to add natural sweetness. For brunch, add a poached egg on top and drizzle with hot sauce for an indulgent twist that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers of the Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them a perfect quick grab-and-go option for a tasty snack or light meal the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze these bagels before baking to enjoy later. Wrap each individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed. Freezing the cooked versions is also possible but reheating may affect texture slightly.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, place the bagels on a baking tray and warm them in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 8-10 minutes until heated through and cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the bagel crispy and appetizing.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach works well—just be sure to thaw it fully and squeeze out excess moisture to avoid a soggy filling.
What type of artichoke hearts works best?
Marinated or canned artichoke hearts both work, but rinse them lightly if you want to reduce the tanginess from marinades and keep the filling balanced.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels Recipe is completely vegetarian and packed with delicious plant-based ingredients and dairy.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, swap the cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan for plant-based alternatives. Nutritional yeast can add that cheesy flavor punch as well.
How spicy is the recipe?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, but you can adjust the amount to suit your heat preference from mild to more assertive.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels Recipe is a total winner when you’re craving something creamy, cheesy, and a little bit fancy without the fuss. It’s quick to throw together, packed with flavor, and endlessly adaptable for any mealtime mood. I can’t wait for you to try it and add your own twist to this personal favorite—you might just find yourself making it on repeat!
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Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels recipe that combines creamy cream cheese, tender spinach, and tangy artichoke hearts topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan. Perfect for a savory snack or a light meal, these bagels are baked to perfection with a crispy cheesy topping.
Ingredients
Spinach-Artichoke Cheese Spread
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup finely chopped artichoke hearts
- 1/2 cup finely chopped spinach
- 2/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 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, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Other
- 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (leftover mozzarella for topping)
- 2 bagels, halved
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare the Cheese Spread: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, finely chopped artichoke hearts, chopped spinach, two-thirds of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste.
- Assemble Bagels: Arrange the bagel halves on the prepared baking tray with the cut sides facing up. Generously spread the spinach-artichoke cheese mixture evenly over each bagel half.
- Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella evenly over the bagels. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the bagels are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a crispier and golden top, broil briefly for 1-2 minutes if desired, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the bagels from the oven and sprinkle additional chopped parsley and crushed red pepper flakes on top for a fresh and spicy finish. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can toast the bagels lightly before adding the cheese spread.
- Use fresh or frozen spinach; if frozen, be sure to thaw and drain excess water.
- You can substitute mozzarella with provolone or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
