Mediterranean Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels
These toasted bagels are topped with a rich, creamy spinach-artichoke mixture, loaded with cheese and Mediterranean herbs. Baked until bubbly and golden, they’re easy to make and totally crave-worthy — like a bagel meets a hot spinach-artichoke dip!
Time Required
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: ~20–25 minutes
Ingredients
2 large plain or whole wheat bagels, halved
1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
½ cup canned or jarred artichoke hearts, chopped
2 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 garlic clove, minced
¼ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: a drizzle of olive oil or lemon juice for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Step 2: Make the Spinach-Artichoke Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine:
Cream cheese, yogurt (or sour cream), spinach, artichokes, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
Mix until smooth and well blended.
Step 3: Toast the Bagels
Lightly toast the bagel halves (optional, but helps prevent sogginess).
Step 4: Assemble
Spread the spinach-artichoke mixture generously on each bagel half.
Step 5: Bake
Place topped bagels on the baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden on top.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from oven, let cool slightly, and drizzle with olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
Tips for Best Results
Drain Spinach Well
– Be sure to squeeze all excess water from the thawed spinach. Too much moisture will make your bagels soggy.
Pre-toast Bagels
– Lightly toasting bagels before topping prevents sogginess and adds crunch.
Soften Cream Cheese First
– Let the cream cheese come to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother spread.
Use a Broiler Finish
– For an extra bubbly golden top, broil the bagels for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking (watch closely!).
Balance the Flavors
– A small squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of chili flakes cuts the richness perfectly.
Variations
Add Protein
– Top with shredded rotisserie chicken, turkey, or cooked crumbled sausage before baking for a heartier version.
Make it Brunch-Ready
– Crack a quail egg or small egg on top before baking and cook until set. Or top with a poached egg after baking.
Go Veggie Deluxe
– Add diced sun-dried tomatoes, chopped olives, or roasted red peppers to the mixture for more Mediterranean flair.
Try Different Breads
– Use English muffins, naan, pita halves, or even flatbreads instead of bagels.
Swap the Cheese
– Mix in crumbled feta, goat cheese, or smoked provolone for more flavor variety.
Fresh Herb Finish
– Garnish with chopped parsley, basil, or dill just before serving for a fresh bite.
Q&A: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can mix the topping 1–2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble and bake just before serving for best texture.
Q: Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
A: Absolutely. Sauté about 2 cups of chopped fresh spinach until wilted, then squeeze out the liquid before using.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes. Use dairy-free cream cheese, vegan yogurt or mayo, and plant-based cheeses. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
Q: What’s a good side dish for this?
A: A crisp cucumber-tomato salad, lentil soup, or even a small bowl of hummus and veggies would complement it well.
Q: Can I freeze them?
A: You can freeze assembled but unbaked bagels. Wrap tightly and store up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes.
Nutrition Info
(Per topped bagel half, without extra toppings)
Calories: ~220
Protein: 9g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: ~320mg
Calcium: ~15% DV
Note: Nutrition will vary depending on the type of bagel and cheese used.
Conclusion
These Mediterranean Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagels are a fun, flavorful twist on the classic dip — served in crispy, melty, open-faced form! They’re quick to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy brunch, a casual lunch, or as a party snack, these bagels are guaranteed to impress and satisfy.