For crispy air fryer Bagel Bites from frozen, preheat to 380°F (193°C) and cook for about 5–7 minutes. Keep them topping-side up; do not flip or shake. The circulating heat melts the cheese and crisps the little bagel bases, making this an easy snack without turning on the oven. This method uses a 9-count box of frozen Three Cheese Bagel Bites.
Ingredients
- 1 (7-ounce) box frozen Three Cheese Bagel Bites (9 pieces)
- 2 tablespoons marinara sauce, for dipping (optional)
You don't need oil, extra cheese, or the crisping tray included for microwave cooking. Leave the bagel bites frozen until you're ready to load the basket so the toppings stay in place.
How To Make It
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3 minutes, or use your appliance's preheat setting. Keep the basket empty while it heats.
- Remove the frozen bagel bites from their packaging. Arrange all 9 in a single layer in the air-fryer basket, cheese-side up, with a little space between them. If they don't fit without crowding, cook two batches.
- Air fry for 5–7 minutes. Start checking at 5 minutes: the cheese should be melted, the centers hot, and the bagel edges lightly browned. If one side is cooking faster, carefully move the pieces to different spots without turning them over.
- Transfer the bites with tongs and let them stand for 1–2 minutes before eating; the sauce and cheese can be much hotter than the crust feels. Serve with marinara if you like.
Tips
Use the basket's perforated insert. It lets hot air reach the bottoms for a crisper bite. There's no need for a pan or liner; a solid liner can block airflow. If you choose air-fryer-safe parchment, place it under the food only after preheating—never leave loose parchment in an empty running fryer.
Adjust for your appliance. Basket size and air-fryer strength vary. Add a minute at a time if the centers aren't hot yet, and stop before the cheese dries out. Check the package for any cooking or minimum-temperature instructions specific to your variety, especially if you switch to a meat-topped version.
Handle leftovers safely. Refrigerate uneaten bites within 2 hours. Reheat leftovers until a food thermometer measures 165°F (74°C) at the center.
Enjoy them while the edges are crisp and the cheese is still melty!
