These Garlic Parmesan Cottage Cheese Bagels are a tasty twist on a classic. Packed with the flavors of garlic and cheesy goodness, they’re perfect for breakfast or a snack!
Honestly, who can resist the smell of garlic and cheese baking in the oven? I love to top mine with fresh herbs for a little extra zing. Yum! 😋
Making these bagels is super easy! Just mix the cottage cheese and seasonings into the dough, shape them, and bake. It’s a fun way to enjoy bagels without all the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Use full-fat cottage cheese for the best texture—it’s creamy and helps bind the dough. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, low-fat cottage cheese works too, but the texture may be slightly less rich.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella gives these bagels their gooey, stretchy quality. For a twist, you could try a blend with provolone or even a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
Self-Rising Flour: This flour is great for quick recipes. If you don’t have it, mix 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour with 2 tsp baking powder and 1/4 tsp salt to create your own self-rising flour.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nutty flavor. If you’re fresh out, Pecorino Romano can be a good substitute, adding a bit of a sharper flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best for its strong aroma and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, two teaspoons of garlic powder can work, but fresh is always tastier!
How Do I Knead the Dough Properly?
Kneading helps develop the gluten in the dough, giving your bagels a nice chewy texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Lightly flour your work surface. This prevents sticking and helps with kneading.
- Take your dough and gently press it with the palms of your hands, folding it over itself.
- Turn the dough a quarter turn, and repeat the pressing and folding action.
- Keep kneading for about 1-2 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic, but don’t overdo it. You want a tender bagel!
A personal tip: If your hands get sticky, just sprinkle a little more flour on the dough and your hands to keep things manageable.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Cottage Cheese Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagels:
- 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese (full fat for best texture)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour (or all-purpose flour mixed with baking powder and salt)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra garlic flavor)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (to brush bagels)
- Additional grated Parmesan and Italian seasoning for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare plus 20-25 minutes for baking. So, you can enjoy fresh, warm bagels in about 30-35 minutes! Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Baking Sheet:
First things first, let’s preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to keep your bagels from sticking.
2. Melt the Cheese:
In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the cottage cheese and shredded mozzarella. Microwave it on high for about 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Give it a good stir to mix everything together. It should look creamy and delicious!
3. Mix in the Dry Ingredients:
Add the self-rising flour, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder (if using), and black pepper to the cheese mixture. Stir everything together until a dough starts to form. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour until it’s workable.
4. Knead the Dough:
Once the dough is cool enough to handle, sprinkle some flour on a clean surface and knead the dough gently for about 1-2 minutes. This helps to make the bagels nice and chewy!
5. Shape the Bagels:
Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center and gently stretch it to create a bagel shape. It’s okay if they’re not perfect—these bagels are homemade!
6. Prepare for Baking:
Place your bagels on the lined baking sheet. In a small bowl, whisk the egg to create an egg wash and brush it over each bagel. This will give them a beautiful golden color when baked.
7. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning over the bagels for added flavor. Don’t be shy—make them cheesy!
8. Brush with Olive Oil:
Give each bagel a light brush with olive oil to help them brown nicely in the oven.
9. Bake the Bagels:
Now, pop the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bagels are golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
10. Cool & Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. Then, they’re ready to enjoy! These soft, cheesy, garlic-parmesan bagels are perfect for breakfast or a savory snack!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cottage cheese, but keep in mind that it may result in a slightly different texture—full-fat gives the bagels a creamier and richer taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Bagels?
Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just toast them when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in some chopped herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, or even cooked bacon for extra flavor. Adjust accordingly to maintain the dough’s consistency!
What Should I Serve With These Bagels?
These bagels are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with cream cheese, avocado, or your favorite spreads. Pair them with a side of fresh fruit or salad for a complete meal!
