These Spinach Cheese Flagels (flat bagels) are soft, chewy, and packed with fresh spinach and melted cheese. They’re a delicious high-protein breakfast or snack that can be baked or air-fried. Enjoy them warm with cream cheese, butter, or your favorite sandwich fillings.

Recipe Overview

Ingredients

Dough

• 2 cups self-rising flour
• 1½ cups plain Greek yogurt
• 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Egg Wash

• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon water

Optional Toppings

• Everything bagel seasoning
• Sesame seeds
• Poppy seeds
• Parmesan cheese
• Red pepper flakes

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet or air fryer
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush
• Knife
• Cooling rack

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) or preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).

In a large bowl, combine:

• Self-rising flour
• Greek yogurt
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper

Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Fold in:

• Chopped spinach
• Mozzarella
• Parmesan

Knead gently for 2–3 minutes until smooth.

Step 2: Shape the Flagels

Divide the dough into 6 equal portions.

Roll each into a ball, then gently flatten into a circle about ½ inch thick and 4–5 inches wide.

Place on a parchment-lined baking tray or air fryer basket.

Step 3: Add Egg Wash

Whisk together the egg and water.

Brush the tops of each flagel.

Sprinkle with your preferred toppings.

Step 4: Cook

Oven Method

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown.

Air Fryer Method

Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, working in batches if needed, until golden and cooked through.

Step 5: Cool & Serve

Let the flagels cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Perfect Flagels

Drain the Spinach

If using frozen spinach, thaw it completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.

Don’t Overwork the Dough

Mix and knead just until the ingredients come together to keep the flagels tender.

Freshly Grate the Cheese

Freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a richer flavor.

Check for Doneness

The flagels should be golden brown with an internal temperature of about 200°F (93°C).

Flavor Variations

Three Cheese

Use a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan.

Mediterranean

Add crumbled feta, chopped olives, and fresh oregano.

Spicy

Mix in diced jalapeños and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.

Bacon & Cheese

Fold in ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon.

Herb & Garlic

Add fresh parsley, dill, and chives for extra flavor.

What to Serve With

Breakfast

• Scrambled eggs
• Omelets
• Turkey bacon
• Fresh fruit

Lunch

• Tomato soup
• Garden salad
• Chicken salad
• Deli turkey and cheese

Spreads

• Cream cheese
• Garlic herb cream cheese
• Butter
• Hummus
• Avocado mash

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze individually wrapped flagels for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Air Fryer

Reheat at 325°F (163°C) for 3–4 minutes.

Oven

Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 5–7 minutes.

Microwave

Heat for 20–30 seconds for a softer texture.

Nutrition Information (Per Flagel)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a flagel?

A flagel is a flat bagel. Because it’s thinner than a traditional bagel, it cooks faster and has a higher crust-to-soft-center ratio.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes. Thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess water before mixing it into the dough.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes. Use a gluten-free self-rising flour blend that contains a leavening agent.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the dough, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes. Blend the cottage cheese until smooth before mixing it into the dough for the best texture.

Recipe Notes

✅ High in protein

✅ Vegetarian

✅ Great for meal prep

✅ Freezer-friendly

✅ Perfect for breakfast or lunch

Make-Ahead Tip

Bake the flagels ahead of time and freeze them individually. Reheat in the air fryer or toaster oven for a quick breakfast or snack.

Serving Suggestion

Slice and fill with scrambled eggs, turkey bacon, smoked salmon, grilled chicken, or fresh vegetables for a satisfying sandwich. They also pair wonderfully with cream cheese, avocado spread, or hummus.

Chef’s Secret

For the chewiest texture, avoid adding extra flour unless the dough is overly sticky. Brush generously with egg wash and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning before baking. Once baked, let the flagels cool for a few minutes before slicing to help the cheese set and keep the inside perfectly soft and fluffy.