There’s something truly special about weekend mornings on the farm, when the world moves a bit slower and the kitchen fills with the rich aromas of breakfast. This Cheesy Spinach-Artichoke Bagel recipe is a delightful fusion of hearty Midwestern flavors and a touch of something just a bit more refined. I first came upon this idea when my daughter brought back memories of her college days in Chicago, where she’d grab a similar treat from a bustling café. These bagels are perfect for those slow, cherished mornings with family, offering a comforting, cheesy delight that's both nourishing and indulgent. It’s a simple yet decadent way to start the day, and it’s sure to make any breakfast table feel just a bit more special.

These cheesy spinach-artichoke bagels are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. Pair them with a fresh fruit salad for a burst of sweetness or a simple side of crispy bacon to add a savory crunch. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or perhaps a glass of orange juice would round out the meal beautifully. These bagels also make a wonderful addition to a brunch spread, complemented by scrambled eggs, a platter of smoked salmon, or perhaps even a light green salad.

Servings: 4

4 plain bagels, halved
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, and minced garlic. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.

3. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Place the bagel halves, cut side up, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

5. Generously spread the spinach-artichoke mixture on top of each bagel half, ensuring an even distribution.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bagels are lightly toasted.

7. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

For a bit of added texture and flavor, you can sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the top before baking to give the bagels a slight kick. If you're a fan of a creamier texture, try blending some cream cheese into the spinach-artichoke mixture. For a more sophisticated twist, consider adding a bit of crumbled feta cheese in place of mozzarella. If you're feeding a crowd, this recipe can easily be doubled or tripled and served buffet-style, allowing everyone to help themselves.

Copyright 2016 Cooktop Cove