Olive Cheese Bread

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious appetizer that will please a crowd, this Olive Cheese Bread is just what you need! It’s a delightful blend of creamy cheese and tangy olives, all piled on soft, warm French bread. This recipe is not only easy to whip up but also perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a game night or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, this snack is sure to be a hit!

What makes this Olive Cheese Bread so special is its simplicity and the way it brings people together. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something truly comforting and satisfying. Trust me; once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why it’s one of my favorites.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 10 minutes of prep time, making it super convenient for any occasion.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Kids and adults alike love the cheesy goodness combined with the briny olives. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the olive mixture in advance, making it even easier to bake when you’re ready to serve.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as an appetizer or pair it with your favorite soup or salad for a hearty meal.
• Deliciously Cheesy: The rich Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully, creating an irresistible topping that everyone will rave about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. You probably have most of them in your kitchen already! Let’s gather what we need for this Olive Cheese Bread:

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 Olives and Bread

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

Variations

This Olive Cheese Bread is super flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add some heat: Spice things up by mixing in diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Switch up the cheese: Try using different cheeses like feta or cheddar to give it your personal touch.
• Incorporate herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can elevate the flavor profile wonderfully.
• Change the bread: Use ciabatta or sourdough if you want to try something different from classic French bread.

How to Make Olive Cheese Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—let’s get that oven warming up! Preheat it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is essential because you want your Olive Cheese Bread to bake evenly and become perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a medium bowl, combine sour cream, garlic powder, and butter. Add in a generous pinch of kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper. Stir until mostly smooth. Mixing these ingredients well creates a creamy base that’s full of flavor!

Step 3: Add Cheese and Onions

Next, toss in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and green onions. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. The cheese adds that gooey texture we all love, while green onions bring a fresh crunch.

Step 4: Fold in Olives

Now it’s time for those olives! Gently fold in both the green olives and black olives. Be careful not to overmix; you want those beautiful pieces of olive intact so they can shine through!

Step 5: Prepare the Bread

Slice your loaf of French bread in half widthwise, then cut each half lengthwise. This gives you four pieces perfect for loading with that delicious olive mixture.

Step 6: Spread the Mixture

Divide your olive mixture evenly between the four pieces of bread. Spread it out into an even layer on the cut side—it should look invitingly cheesy!

Step 7: Bake It Up

Place your prepared bread on a baking sheet and pop it into the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese has melted and those edges are starting to turn golden brown.

Step 8: Broil for Perfection

For that final touch, switch on the broiler for just 1-2 minutes until the cheese is dark golden brown. Keep an eye on it—broiling can go from perfect to burnt quickly!

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Once done, take your Olive Cheese Bread out of the oven, slice into pieces if desired, garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy, and enjoy every cheesy bite!

Gather around with friends or family as you dig into this delightful appetizer—trust me, they won’t be able to resist going back for more!

Pro Tips for Making Olive Cheese Bread

Creating the perfect olive cheese bread is a breeze, especially with these handy tips!

• Choose quality olives: Using high-quality green and black olives will enhance the flavor of your bread significantly. Look for olives packed in brine or oil for a fresher taste.

• Don’t skip the garlic powder: This ingredient adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the cheese mixture. It complements the olives beautifully, making each bite savory and satisfying.

• Experiment with cheese: While Monterey Jack is delicious, feel free to mix it up! Try adding mozzarella or cheddar for different flavors and textures that can elevate your olive cheese bread even more.

• Keep an eye on baking time: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bread around the 20-minute mark. You want it bubbly and golden but not overly crispy.

• Let it cool slightly before slicing: Allowing the bread to rest for a few minutes post-baking makes slicing easier and keeps all that cheesy goodness intact!

How to Serve Olive Cheese Bread

Presenting your olive cheese bread can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some fun ideas to make your appetizer shine at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who love a little heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can add an exciting kick!

Side Dishes

• Mixed greens salad: A light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the cheese bread and offers a refreshing contrast.
• Vegetable platter: Serve with an array of fresh vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers. They provide crunch and are perfect for dipping into leftover cheese spread!
• Hummus: Pairing this dish with creamy hummus provides another layer of flavor. It’s also a great option for guests looking for something lighter.
• Olive tapenade: Enhance the olive theme by serving with a side of olive tapenade. It’s packed with flavors that complement your olive cheese bread perfectly.

Enjoy your baking adventure, and get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful appetizer!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Olive Cheese Bread is not only quick to prepare, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re planning for a party or just want to enjoy this delicious snack throughout the week, here’s how to store it properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the olive cheese bread to cool completely.
• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in an airtight container or zip-top bag.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Prepare the olive cheese bread as instructed but do not bake.
• Wrap the unbaked bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• When ready to bake, remove from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
• Place slices on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent over-browning.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• For frozen bread, bake directly from frozen at 350 degrees for about 25-30 minutes, removing the foil during the last few minutes for a crispy top.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this tasty appetizer, you’re in the right place!

How do I make Olive Cheese Bread more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of Olive Cheese Bread, consider adding spices like oregano or crushed red pepper flakes. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can also elevate its taste!

Can I use different kinds of olives in Olive Cheese Bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match different varieties of olives—kalamata, stuffed green olives, or even tapenade will work wonderfully.

Is there a way to make Olive Cheese Bread gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the French bread with a gluten-free loaf. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!

Can Olive Cheese Bread be served warm or cold?

While it’s best enjoyed warm right out of the oven, Olive Cheese Bread can also be served at room temperature. Perfect for gatherings!

How many servings does this Olive Cheese Bread recipe yield?

This recipe yields approximately 10 servings, making it an ideal appetizer for parties or family gatherings.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Olive Cheese Bread as much as I do! It’s such a delightful treat that brings together rich flavors and simple ingredients. This recipe is perfect for any occasion—from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations. Don’t hesitate to share your experience; I’d love to hear how your version turns out! Happy baking!