Name: Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese Bagel Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 bagels (everything, plain, or sesame), halved; 4-6 oz (113-170g) thinly sliced smoked salmon; 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened; 1-2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (plus wedges for serving); 1-2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (plus sprigs for garnish); 2 tbsp capers, drained; 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced; Optional: Thinly sliced cucumber or tomato, salt & black pepper to taste

This Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese Bagel is a classic, no-cook breakfast sandwich that layers silky smoked salmon over creamy herb-infused cream cheese on a toasted bagel, finished with fresh toppings like capers, red onion, and dill for a burst of flavor and texture in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll adore this recipe because it’s incredibly quick to whip up—ready in under 10 minutes—yet feels luxurious and restaurant-quality, perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekend brunches.

The combination of rich, smoky salmon with tangy cream cheese creates an irresistible contrast, while fresh additions like lemon, dill, capers, and crisp veggies add brightness and crunch that keep it from feeling heavy.

It’s protein-packed to keep you full, endlessly customizable, and far superior to grab-and-go options—once you try it, you’ll crave it regularly as your go-to elevated breakfast treat that impresses without effort.

Yield: 2 servings

Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese Bagel Recipe

Quick, smoky, creamy bagel sandwich with salmon and classic toppings—perfect brunch bliss in minutes.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 5 minutes

Total Time 15 minutes

Ingredients

2 bagels (everything, plain, or sesame), halved
4-6 oz (113-170g) thinly sliced smoked salmon
4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
1-2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (plus wedges for serving)
1-2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (plus sprigs for garnish)
2 tbsp capers, drained
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
Optional: Thinly sliced cucumber or tomato, salt & black pepper to taste

Instructions

Start by grabbing your favorite bagels and slice them in half horizontally—pop them into the toaster or under the broiler for a golden, crisp exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft fillings ahead.
While they toast, let’s make magic with the cream cheese: In a small bowl, scoop in the softened cream cheese and mix in 1-2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice for that bright zing.
Toss in the chopped fresh dill, a pinch of salt, and a grind of black pepper—stir everything together until it's creamy, herby, and perfectly seasoned (taste and adjust for more lemon if you love tang!).
Once the bagels are beautifully golden and warm, spread a generous layer of this dill-infused cream cheese on both the top and bottom halves—don't skimp, as this is the luscious glue that holds it all together!
Now for the star: Layer those silky slices of smoked salmon evenly over the cream cheese on the bottom half—fold or drape them artfully for that classic deli look.
Scatter a handful of briny capers over the salmon—they add the perfect pop of saltiness and texture in every bite.
Add those thin red onion slices for a sharp, crunchy contrast that cuts through the richness like a dream.
If you're feeling extra fresh, layer on some thin cucumber or tomato slices for cool crispness and a burst of color.
Finish with a light sprinkle of extra dill sprigs and a final squeeze of lemon juice over everything—it wakes up all the flavors beautifully!
Crown it with the top bagel half, give a gentle press to meld the layers, slice in half if desired, and dive in while it's warm—enjoy this irresistible, café-worthy treat right away!

Notes

Use cold-smoked salmon for authentic texture (not hot-smoked, which is flakier). This is naturally no-cook beyond toasting, gluten-adaptable with GF bagels, and pairs wonderfully with coffee or mimosa for brunch.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 486Total Fat 21gSaturated Fat 12gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 57mgSodium 960mgCarbohydrates 61gFiber 2gSugar 12gProtein 15g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Use room-temperature cream cheese for easier spreading and better flavor blending—microwave it for 10-15 seconds if needed. Toast the bagels just until golden to keep them chewy inside but crisp outside; avoid over-toasting to prevent dryness.

Layer ingredients thoughtfully: spread cream cheese generously on both halves for balance, place salmon on the bottom to prevent slipping, and add a squeeze of fresh lemon right before closing for maximum zing.

Buy high-quality, thinly sliced cold-smoked salmon (not lox if you prefer less saltiness) for the best texture. For extra flair, whip the cream cheese lightly with a fork for a fluffier texture.

Ingredients Notes

Bagels form the sturdy, chewy base—opt for everything, plain, or sesame for added flavor; fresh bakery ones taste best but store-bought work wonderfully. Cream cheese should be full-fat for richness and creaminess that pairs perfectly with the salmon’s smokiness; whipped versions spread easier but regular offers more substance.

Smoked salmon (cold-smoked preferred) brings that signature silky, briny depth—choose wild-caught or premium brands without artificial coloring for superior taste and quality. Fresh dill enhances the herbal notes traditionally paired with salmon; capers add essential briny pop; red onion provides sharp crunch and mild bite (soak in cold water briefly if too pungent); lemon juice brightens everything and cuts through richness; optional cucumber or tomato slices introduce refreshing crispness and color.

Variations and Substitutions

For a heartier breakfast sandwich twist, add a fried or poached egg on top of the salmon for runny yolk luxury, or layer avocado slices for creamy richness and healthy fats. Swap everything bagels for plain, asiago, or whole grain varieties to change the vibe. Use hot-smoked salmon for a flakier, bolder flavor, or substitute with smoked trout/mackerel for variety.

Make it dairy-free with plant-based cream cheese and vegan alternatives. Skip capers if you dislike brininess and add microgreens, arugula, or pickled onions instead. For lighter versions, use low-fat cream cheese or thin bagels; go open-faced to reduce carbs. Add chopped chives or garlic to the cream cheese for extra savoriness, or include tomato and cucumber for a more veggie-forward take.

Storage Options

Best enjoyed fresh right after assembly to maintain the bagel’s texture and prevent sogginess from the cream cheese or salmon. If prepping ahead, mix the herbed cream cheese up to 2-3 days in advance and store covered in the fridge.

Assemble just before eating, or wrap tightly in plastic and refrigerate for up to 4-6 hours (toast bagels fresh). Leftovers can be stored wrapped in the fridge for 1 day max, but the bagel may soften—revive by toasting lightly.