Start your day with a burst of flavor with these Zesty Bacon Cream Cheese Bagels! Perfect for breakfast or lunch, these loaded bagels are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and zesty flavors will leave you craving more. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 tsp hot sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar for best flavor)
- 5 oz cooked bacon (diced into 1/2-inch pieces)
- Black pepper
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise (I prefer Hellmann’s)
- 7 oz cream cheese (room temperature for easy mixing)
- 1 tbsp chopped chives
- Salt
- 1 tbsp sour cream (full-fat for extra creaminess)
- 4 large sesame bagels
Instructions
Make the Creamy Bacon Cheddar Filling
In a small mixing bowl, add the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced cooked bacon, mayonnaise, sour cream, hot sauce (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
For the best visual appeal, reserve a bit of the bacon and some chopped chives to garnish the bagels after baking.
Prepare the Bagels
Take each sesame bagel and cut a wafer-thin slice off the base, making sure to leave the seeded side intact. Place the bagel seed-side-down. Carefully run a knife around the center of the bagel, making sure not to cut all the way through. Then, using your thumbs, gently but firmly push the center of the bagel outward to create space for the filling.
Stuff and Bake the Bagels
Divide the prepared creamy bacon cheddar filling evenly among the hollowed-out bagels, smoothing the filling to level off the tops. Arrange the stuffed bagels on a baking tray. Bake in a preheated oven at 190°C/375°F for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese is gooey and bubbling.
Garnish and Serve
Once baked, carefully remove the bagels from the oven—the filling will be quite hot! Garnish the tops with the reserved bacon and a sprinkle of chopped chives. Serve immediately and enjoy.
For extra flavor, add an extra pinch of chives just before serving.
Recipe Tip: For an extra kick, try adding a dash of smoked paprika to the cream cheese mixture. It enhances the flavor profile and adds a delightful smokiness!
What to Serve With Bacon Cream Cheese Bagels?
These loaded bagels make a fantastic breakfast or lunch, and they pair really well with some simple sides to round out the meal. A handful of crispy hash browns or breakfast potatoes on the side adds a nice crunch that complements the creamy bagel filling. For a fresher option, try serving them with some fresh fruit like berries or sliced melon – the sweetness helps balance out the rich, savory flavors of the bacon and cheese. If you’re serving these for lunch, a light mixed green salad with a simple vinaigrette or some crunchy pickle spears on the side works great too.
Storage Instructions
Keep Fresh: If you’ve made the cream cheese mixture ahead, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get better as they mingle together! Just give it a quick stir before spreading on your bagels.
Make Ahead: The bacon cream cheese spread is perfect for meal prep! Mix up a batch on Sunday, and you’ll have quick and easy bagel spreads ready for breakfast all week. Just remember to keep the bagels separate and toast them fresh when you’re ready to eat.
Serving Tips: For the best taste, let the cream cheese mixture sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before spreading – it’ll be much easier to work with. If you’ve made assembled bagels, they’re best eaten within a few hours, as they can get a bit soggy if stored too long.
Zesty Bacon Cream Cheese Bagels
Ingredients
Method
- In a small mixing bowl, add the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced cooked bacon, mayonnaise, sour cream, hot sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well combined.
- Take each sesame bagel and cut a wafer-thin slice off the base, making sure to leave the seeded side intact. Place the bagel seed-side-down. Carefully run a knife around the center of the bagel, making sure not to cut all the way through. Then, using your thumbs, gently but firmly push the center of the bagel outward to create space for the filling.
- Divide the prepared creamy bacon cheddar filling evenly among the hollowed-out bagels, smoothing the filling to level off the tops. Arrange the stuffed bagels on a baking tray.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 190°C/375°F for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese is gooey and bubbling.
- Once baked, carefully remove the bagels from the oven. Garnish the tops with the reserved bacon and a sprinkle of chopped chives. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist.
How do I store leftover bagels?
Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Can I freeze the cream cheese filling?
Yes, you can freeze the cream cheese filling! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. Thaw it in the fridge before using.
