4 Insanely Imaginative Gluten-Free Bagel Recipes

Blogger Rozelyn of the Frugalista Mom is without a doubt a bagel expert: she's a born-and-bred Jersey girl (the home of tasty bagels), and she worked in a bagel shop when she was a teen. Now that she's raising gluten-free children, Rozelyn found creative ways to bring her love of bagels into an allergy-friendly home!

One of the foods gluten-free people miss the most when they change their diet is bagels.  For us in the tri-state area (New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut), bagels are a staple.

Contrary to the common notion that bagels are just for breakfast, these well-loved rounds are excellent for lunch or even dinner.  You don’t believe me? I'm a Jersey girl who worked in bagel shops during my teenage years and I have some insider tips for you.

Move those cream cheese and deli meats aside and try these delicious, out-of-the-box bagel treats.

1. Tuna Bagel

Tuna and cheese on top of a bagel is a match made in heaven!  To enjoy this treat, cut the bagel in half and lightly toast it.  On each half, spread a thick layer of your favorite pre-made or homemade tuna salad.  Top with a slice of cheese - provolone works really well! Melt the cheese in a preheated 350F oven or a toaster oven. Serve hot.

2. Pizza Bagel

There's nothing better than a homemade pizza bagel! Lightly toast the bagel halves. Spread your favorite marinara sauce, sprinkle some cheese and don’t forget your favorite toppings.  Put back in the oven and let the cheese melt. 

Tired of the usual tomato sauce?  Let your imagination run wild.  Here’s another idea: pesto with grilled chicken is a hit, too.

3. Pork Roll, Egg and Cheese

Whether you call it pork roll or taylor ham, nothing takes me back to my childhood like this beloved breakfast favorite. Even if you're not famliar with this tasty sandwich, I’m sure you’ll fall in love with it, too!

For this one, there are some steps you need to follow:

1.     Toast the bagel halves according to your liking.  I like mine slightly browned.

2.     While the bagel is toasting, put the pork roll slice or slices in a heated pan.  After about 2 minutes flip it and cook for another minute. 

3.     Remove the pork roll from the pan and make a scrambled egg.  No need to add extra oil since there will be some drippings. 

4.     Once the egg is done, immediately top with a slice of your favorite cheese.

5.     Now, spread some butter on the bottom half of the toasted bagel.  Layer the pork roll and egg – cheese combo. Top with the other bagel half. 

4. BLT with Avocado Bagel

Here’s a new twist to the beloved BLT.  Instead of the mayo, spread some mashed avocado on the toasted bagel halves.  Then, put some lettuce, a slice or two of tomato, and some cooked bacon.  It satisfies all of your cravings – creamy, salty, crunchy, sweet and even umami!

Try these tasty bagels for yourself and pick up a pack here!