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This breakfast bagel sandwich is my weekday secret for busy mornings when I crave something warm and filling without a lot of fuss. Fluffy eggs blended with ricotta, chopped spinach, and melty cheddar get baked right onto hearty bagels so you can grab breakfast with one hand and get on with your day.
When I first tried this on a rushed Tuesday, I could not believe how quickly it came together and how creamy the eggs were from the ricotta. Now my partner asks for it every weekend after a long run.
Ingredients
- Bagels Choose your favorite variety such as everything or whole wheat Look for a crusty outside for texture
- Butter For spreading on the bagels Use a good quality butter for rich flavor
- Large eggs The foundation of your filling Use fresh eggs for best results
- Baby spinach Chopped for added nutrition and a bit of freshness Choose bright green leaves that are crisp
- Chives Fresh or dried for a pop of onion flavor If using fresh slice finely for even distribution
- Ricotta Well drained for creamy texture Seek whole milk ricotta for the best flavor
- Dijon mustard Brings tang and brightness Use a smooth Dijon and check the label for no added sugars
- Garlic powder Adds a savory punch Make sure your powder is fragrant and not expired
- Salt Essential to bring out all the flavors Opt for a fine sea salt
- Pepper A little goes a long way Use freshly cracked pepper for zing
- Mild cheddar Adds melty richness Choose a block and shred your own for better melt and fewer additives
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Egg Filling:
- Whisk eggs in a bowl until homogenous then add in drained ricotta mustard garlic powder salt and pepper Mix until smooth and thick not runny as this helps the filling stay put during baking
- Fold in Veggies and Cheese:
- Gently stir in the chopped spinach sliced chives and cheddar cheese Stir until everything is well distributed and the mixture is a bit fluffy
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Slice bagels horizontally Lay the bottom halves on a clean surface and divide the egg mixture onto each one about two to three tablespoons per piece Sprinkle a bit more cheddar on top if you love extra cheese
- Butter the Bagels:
- Spread a thin layer of butter on the cut side of the top half of each bagel This will help them toast beautifully and add flavor
- Cook in Air Fryer:
- Arrange both halves of your sandwiches on the air fryer tray with the buttered tops facing up Set air fryer to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit Bake for eight to ten minutes or until eggs are just set and the bagel tops are golden If you do not have an air fryer bake in a regular oven at three hundred fifty degrees for ten to twelve minutes
- Finish and Enjoy:
- Use a spatula to carefully lift the sandwiches from the tray Add hot sauce slices of avocado or crisp bacon if desired Cap each sandwich with its top bagel half and press gently to close
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Ricotta is my favorite here Since swapping in ricotta for just eggs my sandwiches come out unbelievably creamy and never dry My little brother thinks these taste like a bagel café treat at home
Storage Tips
Keep assembled bagel sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days Pop them back in the toaster oven or air fryer for a few minutes to bring back their texture If freezing individually wrap sandwiches in foil then reheat in the oven straight from frozen
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap ricotta with cottage cheese for a slight tang and extra protein No cheddar Use Monterey jack provolone or any good melting cheese Whole wheat bagels or gluten free varieties also work and spinach can be traded for kale or arugula if you want a peppery bite
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Serving Suggestions
Pair with fresh orange slices or a smoothie for a more complete breakfast For brunch serve open faced with a salad or roasted potatoes These sandwiches also work well packed for a road trip or picnic
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the bagel crisp and not soggy?
Drain the ricotta well and avoid overloading the filling to keep the bagel from getting soggy while toasting.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
You can assemble the sandwiches in advance and refrigerate, then toast them in the air fryer before serving for best texture.
- → Is it possible to bake instead of air fry?
Yes, bake stuffed bagels at 350°F for around 10–12 minutes until the egg mixture is set and cheese is melted.
- → What bagel type works best?
Use your favorite plain, whole grain, or seeded bagel—just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling without falling apart.
- → How can I customize the filling?
Add sautéed mushrooms, cooked bacon, or swap in different cheeses to suit your flavor preferences and dietary needs.