Stuffed Bagels Recipe – Delicious, Savory, and Perfect for Brunch

Stuffed Bagels are the ultimate breakfast or brunch treat — crispy on the outside, soft inside, and filled with a variety of savory or sweet flavors. They are versatile, easy to customize, and perfect for holiday breakfasts, weekend brunches, or quick on-the-go meals.

Stuffed bagels take a classic bagel and elevate it. Instead of spreading cream cheese or toppings, the filling goes inside, giving every bite a perfect balance of dough and flavor. From cheesy eggs to smoked salmon with cream cheese and herbs, the possibilities are endless.

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Why Stuffed Bagels Are a Game-Changer

• Portable and hearty: A filling breakfast that travels well.
• Customizable flavors: Sweet or savory fillings depending on preference.
• Eye-catching presentation: Perfect for brunch gatherings.
• Time-efficient: Prepare ahead and bake for fresh, warm bagels.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 large bagels (plain, sesame, or everything)
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 slices smoked salmon (optional, for savory version)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Optional Fillings: Spinach, sautéed mushrooms, cooked bacon, or avocado slices.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease.

2. Prepare Bagels

Slice each bagel horizontally, then carefully scoop out some of the inner bread to create space for the filling. Set aside the scooped-out crumbs for another use or snack.

3. Make the Filling

In a small bowl, beat eggs with salt and pepper. Mix in shredded cheddar cheese, chives, and softened cream cheese until well combined. For a smoked salmon version, fold in small pieces of salmon.

4. Stuff the Bagels

Spoon the filling into the hollowed bagels evenly. Smooth the top and press slightly to secure filling.

5. Bake to Perfection

Place stuffed bagels on the baking sheet. Bake for 15–18 minutes, until the eggs are set and the tops are golden. Optionally, broil the last 2 minutes for a lightly browned finish.

6. Serve

Serve warm as-is or cut in half for sharing. Sprinkle extra chives or top with sliced avocado for garnish.

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Tips for Perfect Stuffed Bagels

1. Use day-old bagels – Slightly stale bagels hold fillings better.
2. Don’t overfill – Keeps the filling from spilling during baking.
3. Make ahead – Prepare bagels the night before and refrigerate; bake fresh in the morning.
4. Experiment with flavors – Try ham & cheese, spinach & feta, or chocolate & berries for a sweet option.

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Variations to Try

• Breakfast Bagel: Eggs, cheese, and bacon or sausage crumbles.
• Smoked Salmon Bagel: Cream cheese, chives, smoked salmon, and capers.
• Vegetarian Delight: Spinach, mushrooms, eggs, and shredded cheese.
• Sweet Option: Cream cheese mixed with honey, berries, or Nutella for a dessert-style bagel.

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Cultural Context

Bagels have a rich history originating from Eastern European Jewish communities. Traditionally boiled and baked, bagels became an iconic breakfast food in the U.S. Stuffed bagels are a modern twist, combining the classic chewy bread with hearty fillings, creating a versatile brunch favorite.