These creamy bacon cheddar bagels are a tasty treat! With gooey cheese and crispy bacon, they are perfect for breakfast or a snack. Who can resist those flavors?
Whenever I make these, I feel like a breakfast champion! I love to pair them with a cup of coffee. It’s a simple way to add a delicious twist to my morning.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bagels: Plain or sesame bagels are great choices for this dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, try everything bagels for added flavor. If you’re avoiding gluten, check out gluten-free bagel options!
Cream Cheese: Standard cream cheese gives richness, but you can substitute Greek yogurt or ricotta for a lighter option. If you like flavored varieties, herbed cream cheese can add extra zest.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice punch. Alternatively, Gruyère or pepper jack can bring different flavors and a bit of spice, if you prefer!
Bacon: The crumbled bacon gives a nice crunch and smoky flavor. For a healthier option, turkey bacon or even crispy sautéed mushrooms can work well if you want to skip the meat.
Chives: Fresh chives pop with flavor, but green onions or even finely chopped parsley could work. If you’re after a slightly different taste, dill is a nice alternative!
How Do You Achieve the Perfectly Crispy Bacon?
Getting that crispy bacon is key for this recipe! Start by cooking bacon on medium heat instead of high to avoid burning. Here’s a simple method to follow:
- Place bacon in a cold skillet, then turn the heat to medium.
- Cook, turning occasionally for even crispiness, for about 8-10 minutes.
- Once crispy, transfer to paper towels to drain excess grease.
This method allows fat to render slowly, resulting in the best crispiness. Keep an eye on the bacon towards the end to prevent it from getting too dark!
How to Make Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagel Topping:
- 4 plain or sesame bagels, halved
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Butter (optional, for toasting bagels)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, with the cooking and assembly combined. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack when you’re in a hurry!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by cooking the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat. Keep an eye on them, turning occasionally until they are crispy—about 8-10 minutes. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off the excess grease. Let it cool slightly and then crumble into small pieces.
2. Mix the Cream Cheese Topping:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, minced garlic (if you’re using it), chopped chives, and half of the crumbled bacon. Using a spatula or a spoon, mix everything together until it’s all well combined and creamy. Don’t forget to season with salt and black pepper to taste!
3. Prepare the Bagels:
If you like, you can lightly toast the bagel halves. Spread a thin layer of butter on each bagel while they are warm to add extra flavor. This step is optional, but it can give your bagels a nice crunch!
4. Assemble Your Bagels:
Generously spread the creamy bacon and cheddar mixture onto each bagel half. Then, sprinkle the remaining crumbled bacon over the top of each bagel for that extra crunch and flavor.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tasty Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels immediately. They go perfectly with a glass of fresh orange juice or your favorite beverage. Enjoy every cheesy, smoky bite!
This dish is perfect for breakfast or a hearty snack, combining creamy, cheesy, and smoky bacon flavors on a fresh, chewy bagel.
Can I Use Different Types of Bagels?
Absolutely! While plain or sesame bagels are traditional, you can try everything bagels for a flavor twist or whole wheat bagels for a healthier option. Gluten-free bagels are also a great alternative if you’re avoiding gluten.
How Can I Store Leftover Creamy Bacon Cheddar Topping?
You can store any leftover creamy mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, give it a quick stir and spread it onto fresh bagels or use it as a dip for veggies!
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be used instead of cream cheese. Ricotta also works well for a different texture. If you’re looking for a flavored option, herbed cream cheese can add a delicious twist!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! For a vegan version, use vegan cream cheese and substitute the bacon with crispy coconut bacon or sautéed mushrooms. These will still give you that savory, rich flavor without any animal products!
