Beyond the Bagel: Creative Recipes Using Your Panera Bread Free Bagels
So, you’ve snagged your free bagel from Panera Bread (thanks, MyPanera rewards!). But what to do with it beyond the usual schmear of cream cheese? Don’t let that perfectly good bagel sit lonely on your counter! This article explores a treasure trove of creative and delicious recipes to transform your Panera free bagel into something truly special. From savory breakfasts to sweet treats and even innovative dinner ideas, prepare to be amazed at the versatility of this humble baked good.
Why Repurpose Your Bagel?
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about why repurposing your bagel is a fantastic idea:
* **Reduces Food Waste:** Bagels, especially if they’re a day or two old, can sometimes become a bit tough. Transforming them into other dishes prevents them from ending up in the trash.
* **Saves Money:** You got the bagel for free! Why not stretch that freebie even further by creating a whole new meal?
* **Unlocks Culinary Creativity:** Bagels aren’t just for breakfast anymore. Experimenting with different flavors and textures can lead to some surprising and delicious discoveries.
* **A Quick and Easy Meal Solution:** Many of these recipes are quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or weekend brunches.
Essential Tips for Working with Bagels in Recipes
Before you start experimenting, keep these tips in mind:
* **Day-Old Bagels are Best:** Slightly stale bagels are often better for recipes because they absorb sauces and flavors without becoming mushy. If your bagel is too fresh, consider letting it sit out uncovered for a day to dry out a bit.
* **Toast for Texture:** Toasting bagel pieces before incorporating them into recipes can add a pleasant crunch and prevent them from becoming soggy.
* **Consider the Flavor:** The type of bagel you choose will impact the overall flavor of your dish. Everything bagels are great for savory recipes, while sweeter bagels like cinnamon crunch might be better suited for desserts.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment:** These recipes are just a starting point. Feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to your own taste preferences.
Savory Bagel Recipes
Let’s start with some savory recipes that will transform your bagel into a satisfying meal:
1. Bagel Breakfast Casserole
This is a perfect way to use up multiple bagels (if you’re really racking up those MyPanera rewards!) and feed a crowd. It’s customizable with your favorite breakfast ingredients.
**Ingredients:**
* 4-6 Bagels (any flavor, but everything or plain work well), cubed
* 1 lb Breakfast Sausage or Bacon, cooked and crumbled
* 1 Onion, chopped
* 1 Bell Pepper, chopped
* 2 cups Shredded Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
* 6 Eggs
* 1 cup Milk
* 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (optional, for extra richness)
* 1 teaspoon Salt
* 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder
* Fresh Herbs (such as parsley or chives), chopped (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Bagels:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cube the bagels and spread them on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden and slightly dried out. This helps prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.
2. **Sauté Vegetables:** While the bagels are toasting, sauté the onion and bell pepper in a skillet over medium heat until softened. Add the cooked sausage or bacon to the skillet and heat through.
3. **Assemble the Casserole:** In a large bowl, combine the toasted bagel cubes, sautéed vegetables, and crumbled sausage/bacon. Add the shredded cheese and toss to combine.
4. **Prepare the Egg Mixture:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream (if using), salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
5. **Combine and Bake:** Pour the egg mixture over the bagel mixture in the bowl. Gently toss to ensure the bagels are evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and the egg mixture is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
7. **Cool and Serve:** Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
**Variations:**
* Add different vegetables, such as mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes.
* Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Swiss, or Monterey Jack.
* Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
* Add a layer of sliced ham or Canadian bacon.
* For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add more vegetables.
2. Bagel Grilled Cheese
A classic grilled cheese sandwich gets a major upgrade with the texture and flavor of a bagel.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Bagel (your choice of flavor), halved
* 2-3 slices Cheese (cheddar, Swiss, provolone, or your favorite)
* 2 tablespoons Butter, softened
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Bagel:** Slice the bagel in half horizontally.
2. **Butter the Bagel:** Spread softened butter on the outside of each bagel half.
3. **Assemble the Sandwich:** Place one bagel half, butter-side down, in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cheese slices on top. Place the other bagel half, butter-side up, on top of the cheese.
4. **Grill the Sandwich:** Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. Use a spatula to gently press down on the sandwich while it’s cooking to ensure even browning.
5. **Serve:** Cut the grilled cheese in half and serve immediately.
**Variations:**
* Add sliced tomato, avocado, or bacon to the sandwich.
* Use different types of cheese, such as brie, goat cheese, or pepper jack.
* Spread a thin layer of pesto or Dijon mustard on the inside of the bagel.
* Dip the grilled cheese in tomato soup for a classic combination.
3. Bagel Pizza
A quick and easy pizza alternative using a bagel as the crust.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Bagel (plain, everything, or cheese), halved
* 2-3 tablespoons Pizza Sauce
* 1/2 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
* Pizza Toppings of your choice (pepperoni, sausage, vegetables, etc.)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare the Bagel:** Slice the bagel in half horizontally.
3. **Add Sauce and Cheese:** Spread pizza sauce evenly over each bagel half. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Add your favorite pizza toppings.
4. **Bake:** Place the bagel pizzas on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. **Serve:** Let the bagel pizzas cool slightly before serving.
**Variations:**
* Use different types of cheese, such as provolone, parmesan, or cheddar.
* Add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes.
* Drizzle with olive oil or balsamic glaze after baking.
* Get creative with your toppings! Try Hawaiian pizza with ham and pineapple, or a vegetarian pizza with mushrooms, peppers, and onions.
4. Bagel BLT
A classic BLT sandwich gets an upgrade with the chewy texture of a bagel.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Bagel (your choice of flavor), halved
* 3-4 slices Bacon, cooked
* Lettuce
* Tomato, sliced
* Mayonnaise
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Bagel:** Slice the bagel in half horizontally.
2. **Toast the Bagel (Optional):** Toast the bagel halves to your liking.
3. **Assemble the Sandwich:** Spread mayonnaise on both bagel halves. Layer with lettuce, tomato slices, and cooked bacon.
4. **Serve:** Cut the BLT in half and serve immediately.
**Variations:**
* Add avocado slices for extra creaminess.
* Use different types of lettuce, such as romaine or spinach.
* Add a fried egg for a heartier sandwich.
* Spread with aioli or flavored mayonnaise.
5. Bagel and Lox
A classic brunch staple, perfect for a special occasion or a weekend treat.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Bagel (plain, everything, or onion), halved
* Cream Cheese
* Smoked Salmon (Lox)
* Red Onion, thinly sliced
* Capers
* Dill, chopped (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Bagel:** Slice the bagel in half horizontally.
2. **Toast the Bagel (Optional):** Toast the bagel halves to your liking.
3. **Spread with Cream Cheese:** Spread cream cheese generously on both bagel halves.
4. **Add Lox and Toppings:** Layer with smoked salmon, red onion slices, and capers. Garnish with chopped dill, if desired.
5. **Serve:** Serve immediately.
**Variations:**
* Add sliced cucumber or tomato.
* Use flavored cream cheese, such as chive or vegetable.
* Drizzle with lemon juice.
* Add a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning.
Sweet Bagel Recipes
Now, let’s move on to some sweet treats that will satisfy your cravings:
6. Bagel French Toast
A fun twist on classic French toast, using bagels for a chewier texture.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Bagel (cinnamon raisin or plain), halved
* 1 Egg
* 1/4 cup Milk
* 1/4 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
* 1/4 teaspoon Cinnamon
* Butter, for cooking
* Maple Syrup, for serving
* Powdered Sugar, for serving (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Bagel:** Slice the bagel in half horizontally.
2. **Prepare the Custard:** In a shallow dish, whisk together the egg, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
3. **Soak the Bagel:** Dip each bagel half in the custard mixture, making sure to coat both sides. Let the bagel soak for a few seconds to absorb the custard.
4. **Cook the French Toast:** Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the soaked bagel halves in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. **Serve:** Serve immediately with maple syrup and powdered sugar, if desired.
**Variations:**
* Add a splash of orange juice or rum to the custard.
* Top with fresh berries, whipped cream, or chocolate chips.
* Use different types of bagels, such as blueberry or chocolate chip.
* Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts.
7. Bagel Bread Pudding
A comforting and decadent dessert that’s perfect for using up leftover bagels.
**Ingredients:**
* 4-6 Bagels (cinnamon raisin or plain), cubed
* 4 Eggs
* 2 cups Milk
* 1 cup Heavy Cream
* 1/2 cup Sugar
* 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
* 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg
* 1/2 cup Raisins (optional)
* 1/4 cup Chopped Nuts (optional)
* Butter, for greasing the dish
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Prepare the Bagels:** Cube the bagels and spread them on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden and slightly dried out.
3. **Prepare the Custard:** In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. **Combine and Soak:** Add the toasted bagel cubes, raisins (if using), and chopped nuts (if using) to the custard mixture. Gently toss to ensure the bagels are evenly coated. Let the mixture soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
5. **Bake:** Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. Pour the bagel mixture into the prepared dish.
6. **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the bread pudding is golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
7. **Cool and Serve:** Let the bread pudding cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
**Variations:**
* Add chocolate chips or chunks.
* Use different types of dried fruit, such as cranberries or apricots.
* Drizzle with caramel sauce or chocolate sauce.
* Add a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream.
8. Bagel Chips with Cinnamon Sugar
A simple and satisfying snack that’s perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Bagel (cinnamon raisin or plain)
* 2 tablespoons Butter, melted
* 2 tablespoons Sugar
* 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Prepare the Bagel:** Slice the bagel into thin rounds.
3. **Coat with Butter and Sugar:** In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Brush each bagel slice with the butter mixture.
4. **Bake:** Place the bagel slices on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. **Cool and Serve:** Let the bagel chips cool completely before serving.
**Variations:**
* Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the cinnamon sugar mixture.
* Use different types of sugar, such as brown sugar or turbinado sugar.
* Drizzle with melted chocolate after baking.
* Serve with fruit dip or yogurt.
Unexpected Bagel Creations
Ready for something truly different? These recipes will push the boundaries of what you thought a bagel could be:
9. Bagel Croutons
Add a unique crunch to your salads and soups with homemade bagel croutons.
**Ingredients:**
* 1-2 Bagels (any flavor), cubed
* 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
* 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
* 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
* Salt and Pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Prepare the Bagels:** Cube the bagels.
3. **Season and Toss:** In a large bowl, combine the bagel cubes, olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to ensure the bagels are evenly coated.
4. **Bake:** Spread the bagel cubes on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. **Cool and Store:** Let the bagel croutons cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
**Variations:**
* Use different herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, or paprika.
* Add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese before baking.
* Toast the bagels in a skillet with olive oil instead of baking.
* Make sweet croutons by using cinnamon sugar instead of savory seasonings.
10. Bagel Stuffing
A creative twist on traditional stuffing, perfect for Thanksgiving or any holiday meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 6-8 Bagels (any flavor), cubed
* 1 lb Breakfast Sausage or Bacon, cooked and crumbled
* 1 Onion, chopped
* 2 Celery Stalks, chopped
* 1 Apple, peeled and chopped
* 1 cup Chicken Broth
* 1/2 cup Butter, melted
* 1 teaspoon Poultry Seasoning
* 1/2 teaspoon Salt
* 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
* Fresh Herbs (such as parsley or sage), chopped
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Bagels:** Cube the bagels and spread them on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden and slightly dried out.
2. **Sauté Vegetables and Apple:** Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and celery and sauté until softened. Add the apple and cook for a few more minutes.
3. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the toasted bagel cubes, sautéed vegetables and apple, cooked sausage or bacon, chicken broth, poultry seasoning, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Toss to combine.
4. **Bake:** Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. **Serve:** Serve warm.
**Variations:**
* Add dried cranberries or raisins.
* Use different types of nuts, such as pecans or walnuts.
* Add mushrooms or other vegetables.
* Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
Beyond the Recipes: Tips for Bagel Storage
To keep your bagels fresh for as long as possible, follow these tips:
* **Store at Room Temperature:** Store bagels in a paper bag or bread box at room temperature. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as this can dry them out.
* **Freeze for Longer Storage:** If you’re not planning to eat your bagels within a few days, freeze them. Slice the bagels before freezing for easier thawing and toasting. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer bag.
* **Thaw Properly:** Thaw frozen bagels at room temperature or in the microwave.
* **Revive Stale Bagels:** If your bagel is a bit stale, sprinkle it with water and heat it in the oven or toaster oven for a few minutes to revive it.
Conclusion: Embrace the Bagel-bilities!
With a little creativity, your free Panera bagel can become so much more than just a breakfast staple. From savory casseroles to sweet bread puddings and unexpected creations like bagel stuffing, the possibilities are endless. So, the next time you claim your free bagel, remember these recipes and get ready to transform it into a culinary masterpiece. Don’t be afraid to experiment, have fun, and enjoy the delicious results!