As the leaves begin to change and a crisp chill fills the air, thoughts of Halloween treats spark excitement in the kitchen. I love crafting festive delights with my kids, and these Halloween Ghost Pizza Bagels are a standout favorite. Just picture it: the delicious aroma of bubbling mozzarella and tangy marinara wafting through the house while little hands giggle at the spooky ghost shapes we create together.
In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a fun, bite-sized snack that’s perfect for Halloween parties, school events, or simply a cozy night in. With their playful appearance and cheesy goodness, these bagels are sure to delight both kiddos and adults alike. So grab a few mini bagels and let’s get cooking—a bewitching treat awaits!
Why will you love these Ghost Pizza Bagels?
Quick Preparation: In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a spooky treat that impresses without the stress.
Kid-Friendly Fun: Making these ghostly delights becomes a memorable family activity as everyone gets to shape their own ghosts.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of stretchy cheese and zesty marinara makes for a deliciously comforting snack that appeals to all ages.
Endless Creativity: Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings, allowing endless variations to keep things exciting.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, these bagels are small enough for little hands, making them an ideal addition to any Halloween gathering!
Ghost Pizza Bagel Ingredients
For the Bagel Base
• Mini Bagels – These little rounds hold all the spooky toppings; you can swap for larger bagels if you’re feeling extra hungry.
For the Sauce
• Marinara Sauce – Essential for flavor and moisture; any delicious jarred or homemade variety will do the trick in these Ghost Pizza Bagels.
For the Cheese
• Mozzarella Cheese (8 slices) – This melty goodness is the star; feel free to use lactose-free cheese if preferred.
For the Ghost Decorations
• Black Olives (4) – Great for adding eyes and a touch of saltiness; consider omitting if allergies are a concern or use pepperoni instead for a meaty option.
How to Make Ghost Pizza Bagels
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your spooky treats bake evenly and come out perfectly crispy.
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Spread a generous amount of marinara sauce over each mini bagel, making sure to cover the surface well to keep the flavors vibrant and moist.
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Cut mozzarella cheese into ghost shapes—using a cookie cutter makes this step a breeze! Aim for about 2-3 ghosts per bagel for maximum cuteness.
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Place the cheese ghosts on top of the bagels, arranging them so they look vibrant and cheerful against the red sauce.
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Insert sliced olives as eyes on the cheese, giving each ghost a fun, playful expression that will delight little ones.
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Bake in the oven for 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden, filling your kitchen with a delicious aroma.
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Remove from the oven and let cool briefly before serving, allowing the cheese to set just a bit for the perfect melty texture.
Optional: Drizzle a bit of olive oil on top for an extra touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Ghost Pizza Bagels Variations
Feel free to make these spooky treats your own with delightful adjustments that will thrill your taste buds!
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Veggie Delight: Add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms under the cheese for a nutritious boost that makes every bite even more fun. The playful mix of toppings transforms it into a tribute to Halloween harvests!
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the sauce before baking to turn up the heat, perfect for those who like a little thrill in their snacks. A hint of spice surprises both kids and grown-ups alike!
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Meat Lovers: Top your cheese ghosts with small slices of pepperoni or cooked sausage for an added savory flair that’s sure to satisfy hungry trick-or-treaters. It’s a great way to keep everyone coming back for more!
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Cheesy Twist: Swap mozzarella for a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a gooey extravaganza that brings a new flavor profile to your ghostly creations. The sharpness of cheddar complements the marinara beautifully!
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Dairy-Free: Use cashew or almond cheese substitutes to cater to lactose-intolerant family members without losing any of that delicious melting factor. These bagels remain fun and tasty for everyone!
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Herb Infusion: Mix dried oregano and basil into your marinara sauce for a flavor explosion that adds an Italian twist to your Halloween snack. The fresh aroma of the herbs elevates your kitchen atmosphere!
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Sweet & Savory: For a unique treat, try slathering a thin layer of pumpkin puree under the marinara sauce before topping with cheese. This surprising sweetness makes it a whimsical and delightful Halloween creation!
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Crunchy Topping: Finish with a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs after baking for added crunch and texture that kids will love. It’s a fun way to add a surprise to the traditional pizza experience!
Expert Tips for Ghost Pizza Bagels
• Ghostly Shapes: Use cookie cutters for consistent ghost shapes, making it engaging for kids and enhancing the festivity of your Ghost Pizza Bagels.
• Watch the Cheese: Keep an eye on baking cheese to avoid burning. Remove them from the oven as soon as they’re bubbly and just golden for that perfect texture.
• Bagel Alternatives: If mini bagels aren’t available, you can use larger ones; just adjust baking time slightly for the best results.
• Spice It Up: Experiment by adding your favorite toppings under the cheese—bell peppers or pepperoni can turn these bagels into an even bigger hit!
• Avoid Soggy Bagels: Make sure to spread marinara sauce evenly to prevent sogginess. A thick layer could lead to a mushy base, so moderate the amount you use.
What to Serve with Halloween Ghost Pizza Bagels?
Picture a spooky Halloween gathering filled with laughter, vibrant decorations, and delectable treats that bring everyone together.
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Crispy Veggie Sticks: Fresh carrots and celery provide a crunchy contrast, perfect for dipping into a zesty ranch dressing.
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Witch’s Brew Salad: A mix of arugula, crumbled feta, and pomegranate seeds creates a refreshing, colorful dish that pairs delightfully with cheesy bagels.
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Pumpkin Soup: A velvety blend of roasted pumpkin and spices offers a warming complement, adding an autumnal flair to your Halloween table.
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Fruit Skewers: Colorful skewers of grapes, melon, and strawberries are visually appealing and provide a sweet, healthy balance to the savory bagels.
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Soda Float: A fun drink option combining root beer or orange soda with vanilla ice cream, evoking a nostalgic Halloween vibe that kids will love.
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Spooky Brownie Bites: Rich, fudgy brownies cut into ghost shapes, these sweet treats bring a festive touch that rounds off the snack table perfectly.
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Hot Apple Cider: A warm, spiced beverage that fills the air with a cozy aroma, enhancing the comforting experience of the evening.
Whether you’re hosting a party or sharing a family dinner, these pairings will elevate your Halloween spread!
Make Ahead Options
These Ghost Pizza Bagels are a fantastic meal prep option for busy families! You can prepare the mini bagels with marinara sauce and cut-out cheese ghosts up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the fridge covered with plastic wrap to maintain freshness. To prevent the bagels from becoming soggy, keep the bagels and sauces separate until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to serve, simply assemble the bagels by placing the cheese on top, adding the olives for eyes, and baking them at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This way, you’ll enjoy a fun, delicious treat without the stress of last-minute cooking!
How to Store and Freeze Ghost Pizza Bagels
Fridge: Store any leftover Ghost Pizza Bagels in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bagels before baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month.
Reheating: To reheat, bake the bagels directly from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the toppings in advance and store them in the fridge for quick assembly on a busy Halloween night!
Ghost Pizza Bagels Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best mini bagels for my Ghost Pizza Bagels?
Absolutely! Look for mini bagels that are firm and have a golden-brown color. Avoid bagels with dark spots all over, as this may indicate staleness. Fresh bagels not only taste better but also hold the toppings well, contributing to that delightful crunch.
How should I store leftover Ghost Pizza Bagels?
To keep your Ghost Pizza Bagels fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will maintain their texture and taste, allowing you to enjoy these spooky treats again!
Can I freeze Ghost Pizza Bagels?
Yes, you can! To freeze before baking, place the assembled bagels on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm, about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake directly from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, until heated through and the cheese is bubbly.
What if my cheese isn’t melting properly?
Very! If your cheese isn’t melting, it may be due to the type or thickness of the slices. For better melting, try using thinner slices or shredding the cheese instead. Bake at the appropriate temperature, and keep a close eye on the bagels to prevent burning.
Are there any allergy considerations for Ghost Pizza Bagels?
Certainly! These bagels can be made allergy-friendly by using gluten-free bagels and lactose-free cheese. If you’re using black olives for decoration, ensure no one has an olive allergy. You can always replace them with cooked pepperoni or omit them altogether for safety.
Can I prepare Ghost Pizza Bagels in advance?
Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Assemble the bagels with marinara and cheese but don’t bake them until you’re ready to serve. Store the assembled bagels in the fridge for a couple of hours before baking them off for a quick last-minute treat! Enjoy the cooking!
Spooky Ghost Pizza Bagels for a Fun Halloween Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread a generous amount of marinara sauce over each mini bagel.
- Cut mozzarella cheese into ghost shapes using a cookie cutter.
- Place the cheese ghosts on top of the bagels.
- Insert sliced olives as eyes on the cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool briefly before serving.