If you are looking for a deliciously cheesy and savory snack, look no further than Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels. This recipe takes the classic bagel and elevates it to new heights by combining the rich flavors of spinach and artichoke with gooey, melted cheese. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a midday treat, these bagels are not only satisfying but also visually appealing. The vibrant green of the spinach and the creamy texture of the artichokes create a bagel that is as inviting as it is delicious. Easy to prepare, these bagels can be made fresh in your own kitchen, allowing you to enjoy the warm, toasty goodness any time you want. The delightful combination of flavors and textures in each bite will have you reaching for another. Whether you serve them plain, with a smear of cream cheese, or topped with additional cheese, these bagels are sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are several reasons why Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels will become a favorite in your household. First, the taste is simply irresistible. The creamy artichoke and spinach blend with the rich, melted cheese creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and indulgent. Every bite is a delightful mix of savory goodness that is sure to satisfy your cravings. Second, the preparation is incredibly easy. Even those who are new to cooking can whip up these bagels in no time, making them a fantastic choice for a quick breakfast or a last-minute snack. The straightforward process requires minimal effort, ensuring that you can enjoy these tasty treats without spending hours in the kitchen. Finally, the appearance of these bagels is sure to impress. The vibrant green of the spinach, combined with the golden-brown crust of the bagel, makes for a visually appealing dish that is perfect for entertaining. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself, these bagels bring both flavor and beauty to the table.

Ingredients:

To create Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels, you will need the following ingredients:

Bagels (4-6 pieces) – Choose your favorite bagel type, such as plain, everything, or sesame. Fresh bagels from a bakery or store are ideal for the best taste and texture.
Fresh Spinach (2 cups, chopped) – Use fresh spinach for the best flavor. When cooked, it wilts down significantly, so this amount will yield a nice spinach flavor in the filling.

Artichoke Hearts (1 cup, chopped) – Canned or jarred artichoke hearts work perfectly. Be sure to drain and rinse them before chopping to remove excess brine.
Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened) – This will serve as the base for the filling, providing a creamy texture and rich flavor. Ensure it is at room temperature for easy mixing.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup) – This cheese adds a gooey, melty texture that binds the filling together. You can also use a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for added flavor.

Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated) – Freshly grated Parmesan enhances the cheesy flavor and adds a nice salty kick to the filling.
Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon) – This adds an aromatic flavor that complements the spinach and artichokes well.
Onion Powder (1 teaspoon) – This ingredient brings a savory depth to the filling, rounding out the flavor profile.

Salt (to taste) – Season the filling to your preference. Remember that the cheeses will add some saltiness as well.
Pepper (to taste) – Freshly ground black pepper adds a bit of heat and enhances the overall flavor.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon) – Use this to sauté the spinach, enhancing its flavor and preventing it from sticking to the pan.

Optional Toppings: You can use additional cheese for topping or sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

How To Make Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels?

Making Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these detailed steps to create your own batch:

Prepare the Spinach: In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped fresh spinach and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sautéed spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated and you have a creamy filling.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the bagels from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Prepare the Bagels: If using store-bought bagels, slice them in half horizontally. For homemade bagels, make sure they are cooled and cut as needed.
Assemble the Bagels: Place the halved bagels cut side up on the prepared baking sheet. Generously spoon the spinach-artichoke filling onto each bagel half, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
Add Cheese Topping: If desired, sprinkle additional shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top of the filling for an extra cheesy crust.

Bake the Bagels: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the bagels are golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Once done, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, either plain or with a side of cream cheese for dipping.

Tips For Variations:

While the classic Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels are delicious, there are plenty of ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences or to use what you have on hand. Here are some unique variation ideas:

Add Protein: For a heartier bagel, consider adding cooked chicken, crab meat, or shrimp to the filling. This will increase the protein content and make it a more satisfying meal.
Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling. This will give your bagels a spicy kick that pairs well with the creamy cheese.
Change the Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese. For a sharper flavor, try using aged cheddar or gouda. You can also use a blend of cheeses for a more complex taste.

Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor profile by adding fresh or dried herbs such as basil, oregano, or dill to the filling. This will bring a fresh and aromatic quality to your bagels.
Vegetable Medley: Incorporate other vegetables like sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or mushrooms into the filling for added flavor and texture.
Gluten-Free Option: If you are looking for a gluten-free option, substitute regular bagels with gluten-free bagels available in stores. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Make It a Dip: If you are short on bagels or want to serve this as an appetizer, consider transforming the filling into a dip. Simply bake it in a small dish until bubbly and serve with crackers or veggie sticks.
Freeze for Later: These bagels freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions:

Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels can be served in a variety of ways that cater to different occasions and preferences. Here are some creative serving suggestions to consider:

Brunch Platter: Create a beautiful brunch spread by serving the bagels alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, and a variety of spreads such as cream cheese, hummus, or guacamole. This will give your guests plenty of options to choose from.
Game Day Snack: These bagels make an excellent finger food for game day gatherings. Cut them into smaller pieces for easy sharing and serve with a selection of dipping sauces like ranch or marinara.

Lunch Option: Turn these bagels into a satisfying lunch by pairing them with a side salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the bagels beautifully.
Appetizer for Parties: Cut the bagels into quarters and serve them on a platter with toothpicks for easy eating. This makes for a perfect appetizer at parties or holiday gatherings.
With a Side of Soup: Serve these bagels alongside a warm bowl of tomato or vegetable soup for a comforting meal. The cheesy filling pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the soup.

Toast It Up: For an extra crispy texture, toast the bagels after baking. This adds a delightful crunch to the exterior while keeping the cheesy filling warm and gooey.

FAQ:

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture before adding it to the filling.

How do I store leftover bagels?

Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage and reheat when ready to enjoy.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble and bake the bagels when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels?

These bagels pair well with a variety of sides like salads, soups, and dips. They also make a great addition to a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit and yogurt.

Is there a vegan alternative for this recipe?

You can create a vegan version by substituting dairy cheese with plant-based cheese, using vegan cream cheese, and ensuring all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.

Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels

A deliciously cheesy and savory snack combining spinach and artichoke with gooey melted cheese, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Total Time 35

Course Breakfast, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Equipment

Skillet
Mixing Bowl
Baking Sheet

Parchment Paper

Ingredients

Bagels

4-6 pieces Bagels Choose your favorite type, such as plain, everything, or sesame.

Filling Ingredients

2 cups Fresh Spinach, chopped Use fresh spinach for the best flavor.

1 cup Artichoke Hearts, chopped Canned or jarred, drained and rinsed.
8 oz Cream Cheese, softened Ensure it is at room temperature for easy mixing.
1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Can use a blend of mozzarella and cheddar.

1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated Freshly grated for best flavor.
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1 teaspoon Onion Powder

to taste Salt Season to your preference.
to taste Pepper Freshly ground black pepper.
1 tablespoon Olive Oil For sautéing the spinach.

Optional Toppings

Additional Cheese For topping, if desired.
Red Pepper Flakes For a bit of heat, if desired.

Instructions

In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped fresh spinach and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sautéed spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated and you have a creamy filling.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
If using store-bought bagels, slice them in half horizontally. For homemade bagels, ensure they are cooled and cut as needed.

Place the halved bagels cut side up on the prepared baking sheet. Generously spoon the spinach-artichoke filling onto each bagel half, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
If desired, sprinkle additional shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top of the filling.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the bagels are golden brown.