Fluffy Bagel Bites with Spinach-Artichoke Spread Recipe

Whipping up delectable bagel bites with spinach-artichoke spread feels like a culinary adventure waiting to unfold.

Creamy textures and vibrant flavors dance together in this irresistible appetizer.

Small rounds of crispy bagels become perfect vessels for the luxurious green-flecked mixture.

Every bite promises a delightful combination of tangy and rich notes that spark conversation.

Minimal ingredients and simple preparation make this recipe accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.

Quick assembly means you can serve these crowd-pleasing snacks in minutes.

Impress your guests with this elegant yet effortless treat that brings gourmet flair to your table.

Bagel Bites with Spinach Artichoke Spread

• Boost Flavor Complexity: Packed with layers of tasty ingredients like creamy mozzarella, tangy Parmesan, and zesty red pepper flakes that create a mouthwatering bite.
• Streamline Meal Prep: Minimal ingredients and simple mixing technique make this recipe perfect for quick lunch, appetizer, or snack without complicated cooking steps.
• Crowd-Pleasing Potential: Versatile dish that appeals to different age groups, works great for casual gatherings, game days, or spontaneous get-togethers with friends and family.
• Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allowing personal tweaks like adjusting spice levels, switching cheese types, or adding extra herbs to match individual taste preferences.

Ingredients for Bagel Bites with Spinach Spread

• Bagels: Small rounds of bread that provide a sturdy foundation for the spread.
• Parchment Paper: Ensures easy baking and prevents sticking.

• Cream Cheese: Soft, creamy base that binds the spread together.
• Artichokes: Chopped pieces that add a tangy and textured element to the spread.
• Spinach: Provides a fresh, green flavor and nutritional boost.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a stretchy, mild cheese flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Brings a sharp, salty taste to enhance the overall spread.

• Garlic: Minced to add a robust, aromatic flavor to the spread.
• Parsley, Red Pepper Flakes: Fresh herbs and spice that contribute brightness and heat.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance the flavors.

How to Prepare Bagel Bites with Spinach Spread

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Baking Surface

Warm up your oven to 350F and line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Create Creamy Spinach-Artichoke Blend

• Softened cream cheese
• Finely chopped artichoke hearts
• Chopped spinach
• Shredded mozzarella (two-thirds of the total amount)
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Minced garlic
• Chopped fresh parsley
• Red pepper flakes

Step 3: Season the Mixture

Sprinkle salt and black pepper into the bowl, then mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly distributed and create a smooth, creamy spread.

Step 4: Arrange Bagel Bases

Split the bagels in half and place them on the prepared baking tray with the cut sides facing upward, creating the perfect canvas for your delicious topping.

Step 5: Layer with Spinach-Artichoke Spread

Generously spread the spinach-artichoke mixture across each bagel half, ensuring complete and even coverage.

Step 6: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the spread, creating a melty, golden layer.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes.

The cheese should be fully melted and the bagels warmed through. For an extra crispy top, switch to broil for a quick final touch.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Finish by sprinkling additional fresh parsley and red pepper flakes on top. Serve immediately while warm and gooey.

Tips for Crispy Bagel Bites with Spread

• Mix the spinach-artichoke spread up to two days in advance and store in the refrigerator for quick assembly.
• Select crisp spinach and high-quality artichoke hearts to enhance the spread's flavor and texture.
• Watch closely during broiling to prevent burning and achieve perfect golden-brown cheese topping.
• Add cooked crumbled bacon or diced chicken to transform these bagel bites into a more substantial meal.
• Swap regular bagels with gluten-free bagels to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising taste.

Variations on Bagel Bites with Spinach Spread

• Southwestern Spice Splash: Replace mozzarella with pepper jack cheese, add diced green chiles, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro for a zesty Mexican-inspired version.
• Mediterranean Medley: Incorporate crumbled feta, sliced kalamata olives, and sun-dried tomatoes into the spread, then top with fresh oregano.
• Greek Goddess Goodness: Mix in crumbled feta, diced cucumber, and roasted red peppers, then finish with a drizzle of tzatziki sauce after baking.
• Smoky Bacon Bliss: Crumble crispy bacon into the spread, use smoked gouda instead of mozzarella, and garnish with chives for an indulgent savory option.

Pairings to Enjoy with Bagel Bites

• Pair Perfectly with Crisp White Wine: Select a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the creamy, tangy spinach-artichoke spread, cutting through its richness while enhancing the bagel's savory flavors.
• Create a Fresh Side Salad: Toss together a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, which will provide a zesty contrast to the rich, cheesy bagel bites and add a refreshing element to the appetizer.
• Match with Sparkling Prosecco: Bring effervescence and brightness to the dish by serving a cold glass of Prosecco, its light bubbles and subtle sweetness balancing the creamy, herb-infused spread.

Proper Storage for Bagel Bites with Spread

Store leftover Bagel Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Wrap individual bagel halves tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month for best quality and taste.

Preheat oven to 350F. Place frozen or refrigerated bagel bites on a baking sheet, cover with foil to prevent burning. Warm for 8-10 minutes until cheese melts and bagels are heated through.

Reheat from refrigerated state for 30-45 seconds. For frozen bagel bites, thaw in refrigerator overnight before microwaving for quick reheating.

FAQs

• Are bagel bites suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly, featuring no meat ingredients and packed with vegetables like spinach and artichokes.

• Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure you thaw and thoroughly drain the frozen spinach to prevent excess moisture in the spread.

• What type of bagels work best for this recipe?

Plain or everything bagels are ideal, providing a neutral or complementary flavor that enhances the spinach-artichoke spread.

• Is this recipe good for a party appetizer?

These bagel bites are perfect for gatherings, offering a crowd-pleasing combination of creamy cheese, vegetables, and crispy bagel texture.

Bagel Bites With Spinach-Artichoke Spread Recipe

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4.8 from 10 reviews

• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy spinach-artichoke bagel bites deliver a gourmet twist on classic appetizers, blending Mediterranean flavors with classic comfort. Crisp bagel rounds topped with silky spread promise delightful bites that you will savor at every social gathering.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2 bagels, halved
• 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese
• 1 cup (113 grams) shredded mozzarella
• 1/2 cup (50 grams) freshly grated Parmesan

Vegetable and Herb Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (60 grams) spinach
• 1/2 cup (120 grams) artichoke hearts
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley, plus more for garnish

Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, plus more for garnish
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring even heat distribution.
2. Blend cream cheese with artichoke hearts, spinach, most of the mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, and red pepper flakes in a mixing bowl until smooth and well-incorporated.
3. Enhance the mixture with salt and black pepper, stirring to create a uniform, flavorful spread.
4. Arrange bagel halves on the prepared baking sheet with the cut sides facing upward.
5. Generously coat each bagel half with the creamy spinach-artichoke mixture, ensuring complete coverage.
6. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the topped bagels, creating a decadent cheese layer.
7. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the cheese melts completely and the bagels are thoroughly heated.
8. Optional: Activate the broiler for 1-2 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy cheese surface.
9. Finish by scattering additional fresh parsley and red pepper flakes on top for a vibrant presentation.

Notes

• Swap regular bagels with gluten-free or whole wheat options for dietary flexibility.
• Drain spinach and artichokes completely to prevent soggy bagel bottoms and ensure a crisp texture.
• Add crispy bacon bits or diced ham for extra protein and a savory flavor boost.
• Prepare spread ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 3 days, making meal prep easier and more convenient.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 370 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 640 mg
• Fat: 27 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 65 mg