We always have the greatest intentions when buying a big bag of bagels. But sometimes, the last few left in the bag can get neglected. Whether it’s because you can’t decide if they’re still good or not or you’re just running out of ideas on what to do with them, it can be a challenge to find ways to use up leftover stale bagels.
Fortunately, there are plenty of great recipes that make sure those extra bagels don’t end up going bad or getting wasted. From savory flavors to sweet delights, there are tons of creative ways to enjoy those last few bagels. Here are a few of our favorite ideas to get you started!
Bagel Chips
An easy way to use up leftover bagels is to make homemade bagel chips! Slice your bagels into thin slices, mix with a little olive oil and seasonings of your choice, and bake in the oven until golden brown. These chips are perfect for snacking or dipping.
Bagel French Toast
If you’re looking for a unique sweet treat, try turning your bagels into French toast! This creative recipe is perfect for weekend brunch. Simply dip the bagels into a mixture of eggs, milk, sugar, and spices, then fry to perfection. The bagels make for the perfect texture and taste!
Bagel Bites
Similar to bagel chips, you can make delicious bagel bites in just minutes. Cut bagels into pieces, mix with chili powder and other spices of your choice for a kick, and bake until crispy. These are great as a snack or a side to soup!
Pizza Bagels
This one is a no-brainer! Transform your leftover bagels into a delicious homemade pizza. Spread them with pizza sauce, top with cheese and pepperoni (or any other topping you like), and bake in the oven until brown and bubbly. In just 20 minutes, you have a delicious dinner ready to go.
Bagel Bake
This bagel bake is ideal for meal prep or a quick breakfast. Assemble the night before and pop in the oven the next morning—you’ll have a delicious eggy, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for getting that homemade breakfast sandwich taste, but in a casserole form.
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Bagel Casserole
A lot like the bagel bake, but they are cut up into smaller bagel pieces and added to a casserole dish. Mix in your favorite veggies, cheese, and spices for a great breakfast casserole. You could even go the sweet route and do a French toast casserole instead!
Bagel Sandwich
A bagel sandwich is a great way to use your leftover bagels, as long as they are still fresh! Stuff the bagel with your favorite sandwich fillings, like bacon, eggs, cheese, and veggies. Enjoy it as a morning meal or for lunch—the possibilities are endless.
Bagel Breadcrumbs
Got old bagels? Put them to good use by making bagel breadcrumbs. Use a food processor or blender to turn the bagels into crumbs, then coat your favorite meats or vegetables with them for added crunch. Savory bagels are especially great for this, like onion or garlic.
Bagel Croutons
Homemade croutons are always a great way to use up leftover bagels. Simply cut the bagels into cubes, toss them with olive oil and your favorite seasoning blend, then bake in the oven. Use these crunchy croutons as a garnish for salads or soups—or just snack on them!
Bread Pudding
Finally, use up leftover bagels to make bread pudding! Bagel bread is excellent for absorbing the egg mixture, so it makes a delicious addition to this classic dessert. Plus, you can customize the flavors however you like by adding different fruits and spices.
FAQs
How do you revive a stale bagel?
To revive a stale bagel, you first need to run it under hot water for 30 seconds. Then, bake the bagel at 350°F for about 5 minutes. This will make a crispy, delicious bagel that tastes just like it was freshly baked!
Do bagels freeze well?
Yes! Bagels freeze really well, in fact. To freeze bagels, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil and place them in an airtight container for up to three months. Then, just thaw and enjoy!
​How long do bakery bagels stay fresh?
Bakery bagels will usually stay fresh for about five days when stored in a sealed plastic bag. To extend the lifespan, you can freeze them for up to three months.
How to defrost bagels in the microwave
- Wrap the frozen bagel in a damp paper towel.
- Place the wrapped bagel on a microwave-safe plate or bowl.
- Set the microwave to the defrost setting or 50% power.
- Microwave the bagel for 15-20 seconds.
- Be careful not to overheat the bagel, as this can make it tough or rubbery.
​Bagels to Ba-GOALS
From breakfast dishes to sweet treats, this post detailed just a few of the ways you can use up those bagels that might be going stale in your kitchen. What makes these recipes even better is that most of them are simple to whip up.
So the next time you find yourself with extra bagels, don’t let them go to waste! Try any one of these wonderful recipes, and your taste buds will be happily surprised. No matter which recipe you choose, everyone will love the fantastic flavor that comes from bringing new life to those forgotten bagels.
The best part is you’ll have a cozy dish to share with your friends or family while still being able to reduce food waste! Bon appetite and happy cooking!
