Ghost pizza bagel recipe I’m making for the 3rd time this week

Looking for a fun, spooky snack that’s easy to whip up and delightfully tasty? This ghost pizza bagel recipe I’m making for the third time this week hits all the marks for a quick, playful meal or party treat. Featuring an irresistibly crispy bagel base topped with melty cheese, tangy sauce, and cute ghost-shaped accents, it’s a seasonal favorite that’s as much fun to make as it is to eat.

If you love a little creativity with your comfort food, the ghost pizza bagel delivers on flavor and visual appeal. The focus keyword ghost pizza bagel ties together spooky vibes and familiar pizza goodness in a way that invites everyone to jump in and enjoy.

Why I Can’t Stop Making These Cookies

• Super quick to assemble and bake, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings
• A clever twist on traditional pizza bagels with ghost-themed toppings that thrill kids and adults alike
• Uses common pantry staples so you can get started without a special trip to the store
• Kid-friendly flavors that aren’t too spicy but full of that classic tomato and cheese combo
• Perfect for Halloween, fall movie nights, or anytime you want a festive bite without fuss

What Type of Bagel Should I Use?

For the best ghost pizza bagel experience, go with either plain or everything bagels because their sturdy texture holds up well under the toppings. Fresh bagels tend to give you more chew and a nice crust, while day-old bagels can be toasted lightly for extra crunch. Avoid bagels that are too dense or sweet (like cinnamon raisin) to keep the savory balance right.

If you’re using frozen bagels, thaw them completely and pat dry so your sauce doesn’t turn soggy. Fresh bagels can be sliced and used right away, but if you want ultra-crispy edges, consider lightly toasting them before adding toppings.

Options for Ingredient Alternatives

• Swap butter for olive oil to add a subtle fruity richness to your cheese topping area
• Use shredded mozzarella, monterey jack, or even pepper jack for a kick any melting cheese works well
• Substitute tomato sauce with pizza sauce, marinara, or even a spicy arrabbiata for flavor variety
• Milk or cream can replace water if you’re mixing dough or prepping homemade toppings; use coconut oil but chill dough longer to prevent melting
• Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can be swapped for dried versions; fresh offers a bright pop but dried lasts longer in the pantry

The Biggest Challenges While Baking

• Adding toppings evenly without overloading the bagel too much sauce or cheese can cause sogginess, so keep it balanced
• Butter temperature matters if you spread it before baking soft, not melted, ensures consistent heat distribution
• Avoid overmixing dough or crumbly edges by gently folding ingredients and chilling dough for 30 minutes if prepping from scratch
• Fold delicate ghost-shaped pieces or extra toppings in last to preserve their shape and texture during baking
• If the dough or bagel feels dry or crumbly, add milk 1 tablespoon at a time until pliable

Storage & Freezing Instructions

Store leftover ghost pizza bagels at room temperature for up to 1 day, then move to the fridge where they keep well for 3–4 days. To keep them crisp after refrigeration, reheat in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 Celsius) for 5–7 minutes.

You can freeze baked pizza bagels by layering them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature or reheat from frozen with a few extra minutes in the oven.

If making the dough ahead (for homemade versions), wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge overnight and bring to room temperature before rolling.

Estimated Nutrition

Whole batch (makes about 6 ghost pizza bagels):
Calories: approximately 1200–1400
Protein: 50–60 grams
Fat: 40–50 grams
Carbohydrates: 150–170 grams

Per serving (1 bagel, depending on toppings):
Calories: 200–230
Protein: 8–10 grams
Fat: 7–9 grams
Carbohydrates: 25–30 grams

Ingredients

• 3 plain bagels, sliced in half horizontally
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce or pizza sauce (120 ml)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (170 g)
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional) (35 g)
• 3–4 small mozzarella balls or fresh mozzarella slices for ghost shapes (about 70 g)
• 1/4 cup sliced pepperoni or vegetarian pepperoni slices (optional) (35 g)
• 1 teaspoon olive oil or softened butter for brushing
• Fresh basil leaves or dried oregano, for garnish
• Black sesame seeds or tiny olive pieces for ghost eyes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place bagel halves cut side up on the baking sheet. Lightly brush each with olive oil or softened butter.
3. Spread about 1 tablespoon of tomato sauce evenly over each bagel half, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top of the sauce, covering each bagel like a cheesy blanket.
5. Shape your ghost figures using small mozzarella balls or sliced fresh mozzarella placed on top of the cheese. Shape slightly like a ghost’s head and body.
6. Use small black sesame seeds or tiny sliced olives as eyes to give your ghost faces personality. Add pepperoni slices or olives around for extra flair if desired.
7. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and edges of the bagels are golden brown. Remove, garnish with basil or oregano, and serve warm.

Tips, Variations & Serving Ideas

• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat if you like spicy pizza
• Swap mozzarella for a blend of cheeses such as cheddar or gouda for a richer flavor
• Use gluten-free bagels for a celiac-friendly version
• Underbake slightly if you want gooey, melty cheese centers that stretch when you bite
• Serve with a side of ranch or garlic dipping sauce for dipping fun
• Store leftovers in an airtight container lined with paper towels to keep crisp
• Present on a spooky serving platter for Halloween parties or themed movie nights

FAQs

Q: Can I make these ahead and bake later?
A: Yes, you can assemble them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking; just add the ghost eyes before baking.

Q: What if I don’t have mozzarella balls for ghosts?
A: Use fresh mozzarella slices cut into ghost shapes or even small dollops of ricotta cheese.

Q: Can these be made vegan?
A: Substitute dairy cheese for vegan cheese and use vegan bagels to make a compassionate version.

Save This for Later

If this ghost pizza bagel recipe sounds like your next go-to snack, pin it now so you can find it easily when the craving strikes. Sharing this on Pinterest helps me know you love spooky, delicious food ideas as much as I do!