Got leftover Go Bagels sitting around? Don't toss them—turn them into next-level croutons, chips, and more! This approach is friendly, practical, and helps you make the most of every bagel, while reducing food waste. Visually, these transformations are a treat: imagine golden, crispy pieces adding texture to your favorite dishes. It's a great way to inspire daily use, and if you order from our e-comm store or catering service, you'll have plenty to experiment with. Let's break it down step by step.
First, the star: homemade croutons. Take your day-old Go Bagels (plain, sesame, or everything varieties are ideal for their sturdy texture), and cut them into 1-inch cubes. In a bowl, toss the cubes with 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil, a teaspoon of garlic powder, dried oregano or Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until they're golden and crisp. These croutons elevate any salad—like a classic Caesar or Greek—or add heartiness to soups such as minestrone or creamy tomato. The bagel's natural chew gives them an edge over store-bought versions, and they're customizable: add Parmesan for cheesiness or chili flakes for heat. Store them in an airtight container for up to a week, perfect for meal prep.
For a sweet spin, use cinnamon raisin or blueberry bagels to make dessert croutons. Cube them, toss with melted butter, a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, and perhaps some chopped nuts. Bake similarly until caramelized. Scatter these over yogurt parfaits, fruit salads, or vanilla ice cream for a delightful crunch. It's an inviting way to end a meal, and kids love them as a fun snack. If you're catering a brunch, include a batch on your platter for guests to enjoy.
Bagel chips are another easy win. Slice the bagels thinly (about 1/4-inch thick), brush both sides with olive oil or melted butter, and season with everything bagel spice, sea salt, or herbs. Bake at 400°F for 8-10 minutes until crisp. These make excellent dippers for hummus, spinach-artichoke dip, or guacamole. They're portable for picnics or office lunches, and ordering a variety pack from Go Bagels ensures you have flavors to mix.
Finally, for breakfast lovers, transform leftovers into French toast bites. Cube the bagels, dip in a mixture of beaten eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon, then pan-fry in butter until golden. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup. It's a cozy, visual treat that repurposes bagels into something new.
These ideas show how Go Bagels can be part of your routine beyond the first day, promoting sustainability and creativity. They encourage larger orders knowing nothing goes to waste. What's your favorite way to repurpose bagels? Tell us in the comments!
