Cheesy Pesto Egg Bagels

I’ve been making egg bagels in the air fryer for a couple of years now, and honestly, this pesto version might be my favourite yet. It’s one of those recipes that feels a bit indulgent but actually ticks so many nutrition boxes. Warm, cheesy, herby, and packed with protein, it’s the kind of lunch that keeps you full without feeling heavy.

From a nutrition coaching point of view, this is exactly what I love for busy days: simple ingredients, high protein, and minimal effort. Eggs and cheese provide long-lasting satiety, the bagel gives you energy, and pesto adds flavour without needing lots of extra ingredients. Pair it with a side salad or some roasted vegetables and you’ve got one of my go-to healthy lunch recipes with eggs.

If you enjoy easy air fryer recipes or want more high protein bagels in your routine, these Cheesy Pesto Egg Bagelsare an easy win.

Ingredients

• 1 bagel, halved
• 2 tbsp pesto (1 tbsp per half)
• 2 medium eggs
• 15 g grated mozzarella
• 5 g feta, crumbled
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Spring onions, to top

Substitutions & swaps

• Bagel: Use wholemeal or high-protein bagels for more fibre.
• Pesto: Red pesto or homemade basil pesto both work well.
• Mozzarella: Cheddar, light cheese, or dairy-free cheese.
• Feta: Goat’s cheese or ricotta for a softer flavour.
• Eggs: Use egg whites only for a lower-fat option.

Step-by-step method

1. Spread the pesto
   Spread 1 tablespoon of pesto onto each bagel half.
   Coach tip: Pesto adds healthy fats which help keep you fuller for longer.
2. Add the cheese
   Place bagels in the air fryer tray. Top with mozzarella and feta, leaving a small well in the middle.
   Coach tip: Creating a well stops the egg from running off the bagel.
3. Add the eggs
   Crack one egg into each bagel half. Season with salt and pepper.
   Coach tip: Protein at lunch helps reduce afternoon snacking.
4. Air fry
   Air fry at 170°C (340°F) for 10 minutes for a soft yolk, or 12–14 minutes for firmer eggs.
   Coach tip: Air fryers cook fast, so check at 8 minutes if yours runs hot.
5. Serve
   Let cool slightly, top with spring onions, and enjoy warm.

Tips and variations

• Turn this into a pesto egg sandwich by adding spinach or rocket.
• Add cooked turkey or ham for extra protein.
• Make it spicy with chili flakes or hot sauce.
• Swap bagels for English muffins or sourdough.
• Great as a post-workout meal from your high protein egg recipes list.
• Works well for breakfast, lunch, or even a quick dinner.

Storage, serving and reheating

• Storage: Best eaten fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

• Serving: Serve with salad, roasted vegetables, or soup for a balanced meal.

• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes or microwave for 1 minute. The yolk may firm up slightly.

Final Thoughts

If you try these Cheesy Pesto Egg Bagels, let me know how you customise them. Tag me on social media @alexarciab or leave a comment with your favourite toppings. I’m always looking for new ideas for air fryer bagels.

This is one of those recipes that proves healthy eating doesn’t need to be complicated. A few simple ingredients, one appliance, and ten minutes later you’ve got a warm, satisfying meal that fits real life.

Alex :)