Olive Cheese Bread

If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s as easy to whip up as it is delicious, you’ve found it! Olive Cheese Bread is the perfect blend of creamy cheese and savory olives, all baked on warm, crusty French bread. This recipe is a cherished favorite in my home, and I can’t wait to share it with you. It’s not just a delight for olive and cheese lovers; it’s also a hit at family gatherings and casual get-togethers. In just about 35 minutes, you can create a snack that everyone will rave about!

This dish shines during busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying. It doubles as a fantastic party appetizer or a cozy movie night treat. Whether you serve it warm from the oven or let it cool slightly for sharing, Olive Cheese Bread will keep everyone coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Easy: With just a few simple steps, this recipe comes together in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of olives and gooey cheese makes it irresistible.
• Versatile Appetizer: Perfect for any occasion—be it game night or a casual dinner with friends.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the cheese mixture in advance and assemble right before baking.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Using everyday pantry staples ensures you can whip this up anytime.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Olive Cheese Bread, you’ll be using simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Gather these items from your kitchen or local grocery store:

For the Cheese Mixture

• 6 oz. full fat sour cream
• 4 tablespoons softened butter
• 8 oz. shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Kosher salt
• Fresh cracked pepper

For the Bread Base

• 8-10 oz. loaf French bread
• 7 oz. green olives, drained and sliced
• 6 oz. black olives, drained and sliced

Variations

One of the best things about Olive Cheese Bread is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add Some Heat: Mix in some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Change Up the Cheese: Try using feta or cheddar for different flavor profiles.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or oregano into the cheese mixture for an aromatic twist.
• Go Veggie: Swap out olives for sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes if you’re feeling adventurous.

How to Make Olive Cheese Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial because it ensures your Olive Cheese Bread bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden.

Step 2: Mix the Base Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine sour cream, garlic powder, and softened butter along with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well until mostly smooth. This creamy base is where all the magic begins! The garlic powder adds flavor while ensuring each bite is rich and satisfying.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Green Onions

Next, toss in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and thinly sliced green onions, stirring until everything is well combined. The cheese will melt beautifully in the oven, creating that gooey texture we all love!

Step 4: Fold in Olives

Gently fold in both green and black olives into your cheese mixture. This step is important because it ensures that every bite has those delightful bursts of olive flavor mixed throughout.

Step 5: Prepare the French Bread

Slice your French bread loaf in half widthwise and then cut each half lengthwise. This way, you’ll have four pieces ready to be dressed with our delicious olive mixture.

Step 6: Assemble the Dish

Spread the olive mixture evenly across the cut sides of each piece of bread. Take your time here; making sure each slice gets an even layer means more deliciousness at serving time!

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Place your assembled bread on a baking sheet and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until the cheese melts and the edges start turning golden brown—this is when aromas fill your kitchen!

Step 8: Broil for Extra Crispiness

For that extra touch of perfection, broil your Olive Cheese Bread for 1-2 minutes until the cheese turns dark golden brown. Keep an eye on it; this step adds crunch while enhancing flavors!

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Finally, slice up your Olive Cheese Bread into manageable pieces, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy! This warm appetizer is sure to be loved by everyone who tries it.

I hope this dish brings joy to your table as much as it does mine! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Olive Cheese Bread

Creating the perfect Olive Cheese Bread can be a delightful experience! Here are some handy tips to ensure your appetizer is a hit.

• Use quality olives: Fresh, high-quality olives enhance the flavor significantly. Opt for pitted varieties to make slicing easier and enjoy a better taste in every bite.

• Experiment with cheeses: While Monterey Jack is delicious, feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for added richness and different flavor profiles.

• Don’t skip the broiling step: Broiling at the end gives the cheese that lovely golden crust, adding both texture and visual appeal. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!

• Customize your herbs: Adding herbs like oregano or thyme can elevate the taste. Fresh herbs can bring a vibrant touch that complements the olives beautifully.

• Prep ahead of time: You can prepare the cheese and olive mixture a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This makes assembly quick and easy when you’re ready to bake!

How to Serve Olive Cheese Bread

Serving this Olive Cheese Bread is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary dishes. Here are some ideas to make your appetizer stand out!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brings a fresh flavor that balances the richness of the cheese.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: A sprinkle of these can add a little kick for those who love a bit of heat—perfect for spice lovers!

Side Dishes

• Mixed greens salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the bread, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Vegetable platter: Pairing with crunchy veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers offers a nice crunch and additional textures to your spread.
• Hummus: Serve alongside hummus for an additional creamy dip option. The flavors will mingle wonderfully with the savory notes of the olive cheese bread.
• Stuffed grape leaves: These provide a tasty Mediterranean twist that complements the olive theme while adding variety to your appetizer table.

Enjoy making and serving this Olive Cheese Bread at your next gathering—it’s bound to impress everyone!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Olive Cheese Bread is not just a delightful snack; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time or store leftovers for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Olive Cheese Bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the pieces in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep them fresh.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Prepare the Olive Cheese Bread as instructed but do not bake it.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Place the Olive Cheese Bread on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and cheese is melty.
• For a crispy finish, broil for an additional minute or two.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this delicious appetizer, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use different types of olives in this Olive Cheese Bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite olives. Kalamata or even stuffed olives can add unique flavors to your Olive Cheese Bread.

How can I make this Olive Cheese Bread spicier?

To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture before spreading it on the bread.

Is there a substitute for sour cream in the Olive Cheese Bread recipe?

Yes! Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a substitute if you’re looking for a healthier option without compromising on taste.

Can I make this Olive Cheese Bread gluten-free?

Certainly! Use gluten-free French bread instead of regular French bread to create a gluten-free version of this delicious appetizer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Olive Cheese Bread as much as I do! It’s an easy yet impressive dish that’s perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night at home. With its savory blend of olives and cheese, this recipe is sure to please everyone. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!