If you loved the air fryer protein bagels, meet their savory cousin: pizza protein bagels. These bagels use the same quick yogurt-and-flour dough but have mini pepperoni, shredded mozzarella, and Italian seasoning folded directly into the dough so every bite tastes like pepperoni pizza. No extra topping step required—just shape, air fry, and dip in warm pizza sauce.
This recipe is fast and dependable: about 5 minutes to mix and shape, and roughly 16 minutes in the air fryer. They make an excellent option for meal prep, after-school snacks, or a protein-forward breakfast with real flavor kids (and adults) will enjoy.
Why you’ll love these pizza protein bagels
- High in protein: The skyr (or Greek) yogurt base adds meaningful protein without needing powder.
- Pizza flavor through and through: Mini pepperoni and mozzarella are mixed into the dough so the flavor is baked inside, not just on top.
- Super fast: Minimal prep—mix, shape, and air fry.
- Kid-approved: They actually feel like pizza, so they’re popular with picky eaters.
- Great for meal prep: Make a batch and reheat throughout the week.
Featured ingredients
- Plain skyr yogurt: A thick, high-protein yogurt that gives the dough structure. Plain nonfat Greek yogurt works well as a substitute.
- Self-rising flour: Contains leavening so there’s no need for yeast or rising time. If using all-purpose flour, see FAQ for adjustments.
- Mini pepperoni: Small pieces distribute evenly; regular pepperoni chopped into small bits will also work.
- Shredded mozzarella: Melts into the dough and creates gooey pockets of cheese inside each bagel.
- Italian seasoning: Adds classic pizza-herb flavor in the dough and sprinkled on top.
- Pizza sauce: Warm for dipping to complete the pizza experience.
How to make pizza protein bagels
Step 1: Mix the dough
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl combine 1 cup plain skyr yogurt, 1 cup self-rising flour, 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella, 1/4 cup mini pepperoni, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and 1/4 teaspoon sea salt. Stir with a spoon until the mixture comes together, then use your hands to press it into a cohesive ball.
Step 2: Knead and shape
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead 1–2 minutes until smooth. Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a 5-inch (about 12 cm) log, then join the ends and pinch them together to form a bagel shape with a smooth seam.
Step 3: Egg wash and season
Brush the top and bottom of each bagel with a whisked egg to help them brown and set. Sprinkle a little extra Italian seasoning on top for an appealing finish.
Step 4: Air fry
Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper and arrange the bagels in a single layer. Depending on the size of your air fryer you may need to cook in two batches. Air fry for 8 minutes, flip the bagels, then cook an additional 8 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Cool and serve
Allow the bagels to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Warm pizza sauce makes an ideal dip. These are best enjoyed fresh but also reheat nicely.
Ingredients
Bagel dough
- 1 cup plain skyr yogurt (or plain nonfat Greek yogurt)
- 1 cup self-rising flour, plus extra for kneading
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup mini pepperoni (or small chopped pepperoni)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, plus more for topping
Egg wash & serving
- 1 large egg, whisked (for egg wash)
- Pizza sauce, warmed, for dipping
Tips and variations
- Cheese options: Swap mozzarella for shredded Parmesan or use a mix for a sharper flavor.
- Yogurt substitute: Plain nonfat Greek yogurt can replace skyr—avoid flavored yogurts.
- Oven method: If you don’t have an air fryer, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–22 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, flipping once halfway through.
- Make ahead: Shape the bagels and refrigerate on a parchment-lined tray up to 24 hours. Add 1–2 minutes to cook time if baking from cold.
- Storage & reheating: Store cooked bagels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 3–4 minutes to restore crispness.
- Extra toppings: Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning along with Italian seasoning for a flavorful twist.
FAQ
Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of self-rising?
Yes. For each cup of all-purpose flour, add 1½ teaspoons baking powder and ¼ teaspoon salt. Omit the extra sea salt listed in the recipe when using this substitution.
How much protein is in each bagel?
Each bagel contains approximately 14–16 grams of protein, depending on the exact yogurt and pepperoni you use.
Can I freeze these?
Yes. Cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in the air fryer at 325°F (160°C) for about 5–6 minutes.
Nutrition (approximate per bagel)
Calories: 220 kcal • Carbohydrates: 26 g • Protein: 14 g • Fat: 6 g • Fiber: 1 g • Sugar: 2 g
Nutrition values are estimates and should be used as a guideline only.
More protein bagel ideas
- Air fryer protein bagels — a savory base made with everything seasoning.
- Blueberry crunch protein bagels — a sweet option topped with brown sugar crumble.
- Strawberry cottage cheese bagels — a fruity variation using cottage cheese in the dough.
Recipe summary
Yield: 4 bagels • Prep: 5 minutes • Cook: 16 minutes • Total: 21 minutes
Author: Lee Funke