Loaded Everything Bagel & Lox Pizza

If you love the classic flavors of an everything bagel paired with silky, savory smoked salmon, then this Loaded Everything Bagel & Lox Pizza is about to become your new favorite dish. Imagine a perfectly crisp yet chewy crust, infused with the iconic everything bagel seasoning, topped with a creamy dill spread, delicate slices of smoked salmon, zesty red onions, and briny capers. This recipe takes all those beloved bagel and lox flavors and transforms them into a fun, shareable pizza format that’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or a special dinner. Whether you’re hosting friends or just craving something a little different, this Loaded Everything Bagel & Lox Pizza hits all the right notes with its bold, fresh ingredients and irresistible textures.

Why This Loaded Everything Bagel & Lox Pizza Stands Out

What really makes this Loaded Everything Bagel & Lox Pizza shine is the marriage of textures and flavors. The crust is a star on its own—light, airy, and generously seasoned with the everything bagel blend of dried onion flakes, poppy seeds, garlic powder, and sesame seeds. It’s like biting into your favorite bagel but with the satisfying crunch and chew of a hand-stretched pizza.

The creamy spread, made from a smooth package of cream cheese whipped with fresh dill, adds a luscious tang that perfectly complements the smoky richness of the salmon. Then, the red onions and capers bring that classic briny bite and freshness that cut through the richness and keep every bite exciting. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent but balanced, simple but sophisticated, and totally crave-worthy.

Ingredient Breakdown

• 3 and 3/4 cups bread flour: Provides the perfect structure and chew for the crust, essential for that bagel-like texture.
• 1 and 1/4 teaspoons sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a slight sweetness to balance the savory toppings.
• 1 envelope active dry yeast: The magic behind the rise and airy crumb of the dough.
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough.
• 1 and 1/2 cups water, 110 – 115 degrees (F): Warm water activates the yeast for a perfect rise.
• 3 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons olive oil, divided: Adds moisture and richness to the dough and helps brush the crust for a golden finish.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried onion flakes: Part of the everything bagel seasoning that infuses the crust with savory notes.
• 1/2 teaspoon poppy seeds: Adds crunch and classic bagel flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle savory punch that rounds out the seasoning.
• 1/2 tablespoon sesame seeds: Nutty flavor and texture essential to the everything bagel vibe.
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, at room temperature: The creamy base for the dill spread—make sure it’s soft for easy mixing.
• Handful fresh dill, chopped: Bright, herbaceous flavor that lightens the rich cream cheese.
• 6 ounces smoked salmon (lox): The star topping, rich and flavorful. Choose a thinly sliced, high-quality smoked salmon for best results.
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onions: Adds sharpness and crunch to balance the creaminess.
• 2 tablespoons capers: Bursts of briny flavor that perfectly complement the salmon and cream cheese.

Recommended Tools

• Mixing bowl: For combining and proofing the dough.
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional): Makes kneading easier but hand kneading works just fine.
• Rolling pin or hands: To shape the dough into a pizza base.
• Baking sheet or pizza stone: For baking the crust to crispy perfection.
• Pastry brush: To brush olive oil over the crust.
• Sharp knife or mandoline: For slicing red onions thinly.
• Spatula or spoon: For spreading the cream cheese mixture.

Loaded Everything Bagel & Lox Pizza Cooking Guide

Step 1: Activate the yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm water (110 – 115°F) with the sugar and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly. This means your yeast is alive and ready to work!

Step 2: Make the dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, kosher salt, dried onion flakes, poppy seeds, garlic powder, and sesame seeds. Pour in the yeast mixture and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix until a rough dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook on medium speed for about 6-7 minutes.

Step 4: First rise

Lightly oil a large bowl with olive oil, place the dough inside, and cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Preheat oven and prepare pizza base

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll or stretch it out into a 12-inch circle or your preferred pizza shape. Transfer to a baking sheet or pizza stone.

Step 6: Brush and par-bake crust

Brush the top of the dough with the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil. Bake in the oven for 8-10 minutes until the crust is just starting to turn golden but not fully cooked.

Step 7: Prepare the cream cheese spread

While the crust is baking, mix the softened cream cheese with the chopped fresh dill until well combined and creamy.

Step 8: Assemble the pizza

Remove the crust from the oven and spread a generous layer of the dill cream cheese over it. Arrange the smoked salmon slices evenly on top, then scatter the thinly sliced red onions and capers.

Step 9: Final bake and serve

Return the pizza to the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes to warm the toppings slightly (don’t overbake – the salmon should remain delicate). Remove from oven, slice, and serve immediately.

Allergy-Friendly Swaps

• Gluten-free flour blend: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute designed for yeast doughs to make the crust gluten-free.
• Coconut cream cheese: For a dairy-free version, swap the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative.
• Chopped fresh chives or parsley: If you’re not a fan of dill, these herbs provide a fresh alternative.
• Smoked turkey or chicken slices: Instead of smoked salmon, use thinly sliced smoked poultry for a different protein option.
• Onion powder instead of dried flakes: For a smoother texture in the crust seasoning, use onion powder.

Slip-Ups to Skip

• Don’t use water that’s too hot for your yeast — temperatures above 115°F can kill it, resulting in dough that won’t rise.
• Avoid overbaking the pizza after adding the toppings; smoked salmon becomes dry and tough if overheated.
• Do not skip the olive oil brush on the crust—it locks in moisture and helps achieve that golden crust.
• Resist the urge to overload the pizza with toppings—too much cream cheese or salmon can weigh down the crust.
• Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy spreading and a smooth topping.

Save It for Later

This Loaded Everything Bagel & Lox Pizza is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5-7 minutes to keep the crust crisp without drying out the salmon. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust chewy and the salmon tough.

Troubleshooting Q&A

My dough didn’t rise. What went wrong?

If your dough didn’t rise, the yeast may have been inactive. Check the expiration date on the yeast package. Also, make sure the water temperature was between 110-115°F; too cold or too hot water can prevent activation.

How can I get a crispier crust?

Preheat your oven thoroughly and consider using a pizza stone for even heat distribution. Par-baking the crust before adding toppings also helps create a crispier base.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Just cover it tightly and allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Can I use other herbs instead of dill?

Yes, fresh chives, parsley, or even tarragon work well as alternatives to dill and will give your cream cheese spread a fresh, herby flavor.

Quick Weeknight Wins

• Classic Margherita Pizza – Simple and fresh, perfect for busy nights.
• Garlic Knots – A quick and tasty side to pair with your pizza.
• One-Pot Pasta – Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
• Quick Chicken Stir Fry – Ready in 20 minutes for a nutritious weeknight meal.

See You at the Table

Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create this unique Loaded Everything Bagel & Lox Pizza that’s bursting with flavor and texture. It’s a dish that brings a fresh twist to traditional favorites, perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself to something special. Whether it’s a leisurely weekend brunch or an impressive appetizer for your next gathering, this pizza promises a memorable bite every time. Pull up a chair and enjoy every delicious slice together!

This recipe captures the essence of everything bagels and lox, elevated into a fun and creative pizza form. It’s a delightful way to mix classic breakfast flavors with your favorite pizza cravings, turning simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal you’ll want to make again and again.

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