5 Creative Ways to Use Bagel Chips Beyond Snacking

Bagel chips are a beloved snack for their satisfying crunch and versatility. While they're perfect straight out of the bag, there's so much more you can do with them. Whether you have a bag of plain bagel chips or a flavored variety, these crispy morsels can elevate your cooking and baking in unexpected ways. In this article, we'll explore five creative ways to use bagel chips beyond snacking, turning them into star ingredients for appetizers, desserts, and more.

From savory coatings to sweet crusts, bagel chip recipes are limited only by your imagination. We'll show you how to transform these crunchy bites into everything from crunchy toppings for casseroles to the base for a unique bread pudding. Plus, we'll highlight some of our favorite products from ROYO Bread Co., like the Bagel Chips - Plain and NY Style Bagels - Tomato Basil, to inspire your culinary adventures.

1. Crunchy Coating for Chicken or Fish

One of the easiest and most delicious ways to use bagel chips is as a breadcrumb substitute. Simply crush a handful of bagel chips in a food processor or by hand in a sealed bag until they resemble coarse crumbs. Season with your favorite herbs and spices—think garlic powder, paprika, or dried oregano—and use the mixture to coat chicken tenders, fish fillets, or even tofu. The bagel chips add a robust crunch and a subtle, toasty flavor that panko breadcrumbs can't match.

For a truly memorable meal, pair your bagel chip-crusted chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. The Bagel Chips - Plain work wonderfully for this recipe because their neutral flavor lets your seasonings shine. If you want a bolder taste, try using flavored bagel chips like everything or garlic. This technique is also perfect for making crunchy onion rings or zucchini fries.

• Use plain bagel chips for a neutral base, or flavored ones for an extra kick.
• Crush chips to a fine or coarse texture depending on your preference.
• Bake or air-fry the coated items for a healthier alternative to deep-frying.

2. Savory Bagel Chip Crust for Casseroles and Mac & Cheese

Take your baked dishes to the next level by using bagel chips as a crispy topping. Instead of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, sprinkle crushed bagel chips over macaroni and cheese, tuna casserole, or baked pasta. The chips toast beautifully in the oven, creating a golden, crunchy crust that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling underneath.

For a twist, mix the crushed chips with melted butter and a pinch of Parmesan cheese before sprinkling on top. This works especially well with Bagel Chips - Plain, as they absorb flavors without overpowering the dish. You can also experiment with flavored bagel chips—try tomato basil chips on an Italian-style casserole for an extra layer of taste. This simple swap elevates a weeknight dinner into something special.

• Crush chips to a medium-coarse texture for the best crunch.
• Combine with melted butter or olive oil for even browning.
• Add grated cheese or dried herbs to the chip topping for extra flavor.

3. Bagel Chip Croutons for Soups and Salads

Homemade croutons are a snap when you use bagel chips. Simply break the chips into bite-sized pieces and toss them with olive oil, garlic, and your favorite seasonings. Toast them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until they're extra crispy. These croutons are perfect for topping creamy soups like tomato bisque or butternut squash soup, and they add a delightful crunch to Caesar salads or garden salads.

Because bagel chips are already baked, they require less time to crisp up than fresh bread. The Bagel Chips - Plain are ideal for this purpose, as their mild taste allows the seasonings to take center stage. For a more adventurous flavor, use everything bagel chips for a savory, garlicky crouton that pairs beautifully with a simple green salad. You can even use them to top a bowl of chili or stew for added texture.

• Break chips into uniform pieces for even toasting.
• Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or dried herbs.
• Store leftover croutons in an airtight container for up to a week.

4. Sweet or Savory Bagel Chip Bread Pudding

Bread pudding isn't just for stale bread—bagel chips make an excellent substitute. Their sturdy texture holds up well when soaked in a custard mixture, and they absorb flavors beautifully. For a savory version, combine crushed bagel chips with eggs, milk, cheese, and cooked vegetables or ham. Bake until set for a hearty side dish or brunch item. For a sweet treat, use cinnamon sugar bagel chips or plain chips with added cinnamon, sugar, and dried fruit.

The key is to let the chips soak long enough to soften but not become mushy. The Bagel Chips - Plain work well for both savory and sweet recipes, giving you flexibility. If you're in the mood for a dessert-inspired version, consider adding chocolate chips or a drizzle of caramel. This creative bagel chip use is sure to impress guests at your next gathering.

• Use a 2:1 ratio of liquid to chips for the best texture.
• Let the mixture sit for 15-20 minutes before baking.
• For a sweet version, add vanilla extract and a pinch of nutmeg.

5. Bagel Chip Crust for Cheesecake or Pie

For a unique and delicious dessert, use crushed bagel chips as the base for a cheesecake or pie crust. The chips provide a crunchy, salty-sweet foundation that pairs wonderfully with creamy fillings. Simply crush the chips finely, mix with melted butter and a little sugar (if using plain chips), and press into a pie dish or springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes at 350°F before adding your filling.

This technique works especially well with Bagel Chips - Plain, as their subtle flavor allows the filling to shine. For a chocolatey twist, try using chocolate chip bagel chips or add cocoa powder to the crust. You can also use this crust for no-bake cheesecakes or ice cream pies. It's a creative way to repurpose bagel chips into a show-stopping dessert that's sure to be a conversation starter.

• Crush chips very finely for a smooth crust.
• Add a pinch of salt to balance sweetness.
• Pre-bake the crust for a sturdier base.

Bagel chips are far more than a simple snack—they're a versatile ingredient that can transform your cooking. Whether you're coating chicken, topping a casserole, or crafting a unique dessert crust, these crunchy bites add texture and flavor to any dish. Next time you reach for a bag of Bagel Chips - Plain, think beyond the snack bowl and get creative in the kitchen. Your taste buds will thank you.