Name: Irresistible Olive Cheese Bread for Effortless Gatherings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 loaf French Bread (Crusty variety for base); 1 cup Pimiento-stuffed Green Olives (Can substitute with regular green olives); 1 cup Black Olives (Any preferred variety); 1/2 cup Green Onions (Scallions) (Finely chopped, optional); 4 tablespoons Butter, Room Temperature (Softened for easy mixing); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Can use Greek yogurt as a substitute); 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese, Grated (Can substitute with cheddar or mozzarella)

As I pulled the warm Olive Cheese Bread from the oven, the aroma enveloped my kitchen like a cozy hug. This delightful creation marries the briny essence of olives with creamy, melted cheese for a treat that’s perfect for any gathering. What I love most about this recipe is its quick prep time—just 10 minutes to bring this crowd-pleaser to life! This cheesy gem works beautifully as an appetizer, easily pairing with a fresh salad or a comforting bowl of soup. When you slice into it, the golden crust gives way to a warm, tantalizing filling that invites everyone around the table to dig in. Are you ready to brighten your next meal with this irresistibly delicious Olive Cheese Bread? Let’s get started!

Why is Olive Cheese Bread a Must-Try?

Simplicity at Its Best: This Olive Cheese Bread is incredibly easy to whip up, needing just 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes baking to deliver a mouthwatering appetizer.

Irresistible Flavor: The salty, briny olives beautifully complement the gooey cheese, making it a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, it’s an instant hit at parties, alongside a fresh salad, or even as a side with your favorite soup!

Versatile Twist: Try mixing in sun-dried tomatoes or different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick.

Unforgettable Aroma: The delightful scent wafting from the oven will have everyone gathering in the kitchen, eager to taste this cheesy delight!

Olive Cheese Bread Ingredients

For the Bread Base
• French Bread – This crusty variety provides a solid foundation for our delicious Olive Cheese Bread.
For the Filling
• Pimiento-stuffed Green Olives – These add a tangy zip; swap with regular green olives if needed.
• Black Olives – For deeper, savory notes, any black olives you prefer work wonderfully.
• Green Onions (Scallions) – They offer a fresh crunch; omit if you’re in a pinch.
• Butter, Room Temperature – This rich binding agent must be softened to mix easily.
• Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess; Greek yogurt is a lighter substitute if desired.
• Monterey Jack Cheese, Grated – This is the gooey, melty star of our dish; cheddar or mozzarella are great alternatives.

Get ready to create your own mouthwatering Olive Cheese Bread with these simple ingredients!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Olive Cheese Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This important step ensures that your Olive Cheese Bread bakes evenly and reaches that perfect golden-brown hue. While the oven warms up, you can begin prepping the bread and the delicious filling that will make this recipe a crowd favorite.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Take a crusty French bread loaf and slice it lengthwise down the center, creating two halves. Place the bread halves, cut side up, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This allows maximum surface area for the flavorful olive mixture, which will soon be spread generously across the warm bread.

Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine chopped pimiento-stuffed green olives and black olives along with finely chopped green onions, softened butter, mayonnaise, and grated Monterey Jack cheese. Stir everything together until it’s fully mixed and well-blended. This mixture is the star of your Olive Cheese Bread, so ensure it’s creamy and evenly combined.

Step 4: Spread the Mixture
Take your prepared olive mixture and spread it evenly over the cut sides of the French bread halves. Use a spatula for smooth spreading; this allows the flavors to meld perfectly during baking. Be generous, making sure every inch of the surface is covered, so there’s no bland bread left behind.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Carefully place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake your Olive Cheese Bread for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it, looking for the cheese to melt thoroughly and turn a golden brown. Around the 20-minute mark, check for doneness; that bubbly, golden cheese is a sure sign it’s ready to come out.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked to perfection, remove the Olive Cheese Bread from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Cut the bread into slices and serve warm as a delicious appetizer. Pair it with a fresh salad or a comforting bowl of soup for a delightful meal that your family and friends will adore!

What to Serve with Olive Cheese Bread

There’s something enchanting about pairing this warm, cheesy delight with the right accompaniments that elevate your dining experience.

Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad provides a delightful contrast to the rich cheese and olives, lightening up each bite.
Creamy Tomato Soup: The comforting flavors of a creamy tomato soup compliment the salty, cheesy goodness, creating a heartwarming combination.
Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled veggies add a smoky touch and plenty of nutrients, balancing the savory taste of the Olive Cheese Bread.
Savory Charcuterie Board: Pair this cheesy bread with a selection of cured meats and cheeses for a sophisticated appetizer platter that encourages sharing.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio enhances the meal, perfectly complementing the briny flavors of the olives.
Garlic Butter Dipping Sauce: Drizzle or dip in a simple garlic butter sauce for an indulgent touch that makes every bite even more irresistible!
Savory Antipasto Platter: Create a vibrant antipasto spread to enjoy with your Olive Cheese Bread, featuring marinated artichokes, olives, and salami for a burst of flavor.

How to Store and Freeze Olive Cheese Bread

Fridge: Wrap any leftover Olive Cheese Bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and prevents it from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze individual pieces in airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month without losing flavor.

Reheating: To enjoy leftover bread, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Avoid the microwave to keep the texture intact.

Flash Freezing: If you plan to freeze unbaked bread, use the flash freezing technique: place the prepared bread on a baking sheet and freeze unwrapped for about 20 minutes before wrapping it tightly.

Make Ahead Options

These Olive Cheese Bread delights are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the olive and cheese mixture up to 24 hours in advance by combining all the filling ingredients in a bowl and refrigerating it (this allows the flavors to meld beautifully). Additionally, you can slice the French bread and store it, cut side up, on a baking sheet covered with a kitchen towel for freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply spread the mixture over the bread and pop it in the oven! This way, you’ll have a fantastic appetizer ready in just 25 minutes, ensuring your gatherings leave everyone impressed, with minimal effort.

Expert Tips for Olive Cheese Bread

Make Ahead Magic: Prepare the olive mixture a few hours or even the night before to enhance the flavors before spreading it on the bread.
Choose Quality Olives: Use high-quality pimiento-stuffed green and black olives for the best taste; cheaper options might lack the rich, briny flavor you desire.
Avoid Low-Fat Substitutes: Stick to regular mayonnaise as low-fat varieties can result in a dull flavor and affect the creamy texture of your Olive Cheese Bread.
Check Cheese Melting: Keep a close eye on the cheese during baking; once it’s bubbly and golden, it’s a sign that your appetizer is ready to impress!
Optimize Leftovers: To prevent drying out, wrap any leftover Olive Cheese Bread in plastic wrap before refrigerating; reheating in the oven preserves its delicious crunch.

Olive Cheese Bread Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this delightful recipe and put your own spin on it!

Spicy Kick: Substitute Monterey Jack cheese with pepper jack for a zesty flavor that adds extra excitement to every bite.
Vegetarian Boost: For a wholesome twist, fold in sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts to enrich the olive mixture further.
Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like oregano or basil for an aromatic touch that transforms the flavor profile beautifully.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free French bread to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions while maintaining deliciousness.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in some crumbled feta cheese alongside the Monterey Jack for a tangy twist that complements the olives perfectly.
Nutty Texture: Incorporating finely chopped walnuts or pecans adds a delightful crunch to the Olive Cheese Bread that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
Smoky Flavor: Add a spoonful of smoked paprika into the cheese mixture for a subtle smoky depth that enhances each bite.
Layered Flavor: Spread a thin layer of pesto on the bread before adding the olive mixture to enhance the flavor even further.

For more cheesy recipes that are sure to impress, check out this Crispy Ham Cheese Puff Pastry or indulge in some Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins. Your culinary adventure awaits!

Olive Cheese Bread Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right olives for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for high-quality pimiento-stuffed green olives and your favorite black olives. When selecting, aim for firm ones without dark spots or blemishes, as these can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

How should I store leftover Olive Cheese Bread?
Wrap any leftover Olive Cheese Bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, it will stay fresh and maintain its delicious taste. Ensure it’s fully cooled before wrapping to minimize condensation.

Can I freeze Olive Cheese Bread?
Very! You can definitely freeze Olive Cheese Bread for longer storage. Slice the bread and place individual pieces in airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep well for up to 1 month. For best results, flash freeze unbaked bread by freezing it on a baking sheet for about 20 minutes before wrapping tightly.

What should I do if my cheese doesn’t melt properly?
If you’re finding that the cheese isn’t melting as it should, make sure it’s grated finely enough as larger pieces take longer to melt. Additionally, check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer; sometimes, ovens can be off by a bit, affecting cooking time.

Is this Olive Cheese Bread suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! For a lighter option, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, and if anyone has dairy allergies, consider using non-dairy cheese alternatives. Always verify the ingredients when buying olives or bread to avoid allergens.

What’s the best way to reheat Olive Cheese Bread?
For perfect reheating, place the Olive Cheese Bread in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes. This method helps maintain its crispy exterior and gooey inside rather than using a microwave, which can make it soggy.