Olive Cheese Bread

If you’re looking for the perfect appetizer that’s quick, delicious, and guaranteed to impress, then Olive Cheese Bread is just what you need! This recipe has a special place in my heart because it combines three of my favorite things: olives, cheese, and bread. Whether you’re hosting family gatherings or just having a cozy movie night at home, this dish fits right in. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights yet elegant enough to serve to guests.

The best part? You can whip it up in no time with minimal ingredients. Trust me; once you take that first cheesy bite filled with briny olives, you’ll see why this Olive Cheese Bread is a go-to favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With only about 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delightful snack ready before you know it!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves cheesy bread! It’s a great way to get kids excited about trying olives.
• Versatile: Perfect for any occasion—game nights, parties, or even as a tasty side dish!
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the olive mixture ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Deliciously cheesy: The combination of Monterey Jack cheese with olives creates an irresistible flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Olive Cheese Bread, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Olive Cheese Mixture

• 6 oz. full fat sour cream
• 4 tablespoons softened butter
• 7 oz. green olives, drained and sliced
• 6 oz. black olives, drained and sliced
• 8 oz. shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Bread Base

• 8-10 oz. loaf French bread
• Kosher salt
• Fresh cracked pepper

Variations

One of the best things about Olive Cheese Bread is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add some heat: If you like a kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for extra spice.
• Mix up the cheeses: Try using different types of cheese like cheddar or feta for a unique flavor twist.
• Herb infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the olive mixture for an aromatic touch.
• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread instead of French bread to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.

How to Make Olive Cheese Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees. This ensures that your Olive Cheese Bread will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, garlic powder, and softened butter along with a generous pinch of salt and freshly cracked pepper. Stir until mostly smooth; this creamy base will help bind everything together and add wonderful flavor!

Step 3: Combine with Cheese and Onions

Next, add the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and thinly sliced green onions into the bowl. Stir until everything is well combined—this step creates a rich filling that will melt beautifully in the oven.

Step 4: Fold in Those Olives

Gently fold in both the green and black olives into the cheese mixture. The olives add delightful bursts of flavor that complement the melted cheese perfectly.

Step 5: Prepare Your Bread

Slice your French bread loaf in half widthwise and then slice each half lengthwise. This gives you four pieces with plenty of surface area for all that gooey goodness!

Step 6: Spread the Mixture

Divide your olive-cheese mixture evenly between all four pieces of bread. Spread it generously on the cut sides—this is where all those flavors mingle together while baking!

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Place your prepared bread on a baking sheet and pop it into your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. You want it until the cheese is melted and bubbly while the edges start turning golden brown.

Step 8: Broil for Extra Crispiness

For that perfect finishing touch, set your oven to broil for just 1-2 minutes until the top gets dark golden brown—keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Once out of the oven, slice your Olive Cheese Bread into manageable pieces, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy every cheesy bite!

Now gather your loved ones around and get ready to share this delightful treat—you’ll surely be asked for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Olive Cheese Bread

Creating the perfect Olive Cheese Bread is a breeze with just a few handy tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh olives and high-quality cheese make a world of difference in flavor. Opt for freshly sliced olives and freshly shredded cheese to enhance taste and texture.

• Don’t skip the broiling: Broiling at the end gives your bread a beautiful golden top and crispy edges. It adds that irresistible crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy cheese mixture.

• Experiment with cheeses: While Monterey Jack is fantastic, don’t hesitate to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for an extra kick. This allows you to customize the flavor profile to your liking.

• Adjust the olive variety: Combining green and black olives is a great start, but feel free to introduce kalamata or even stuffed olives for added depth. Each type brings its unique tanginess and texture.

• Make it ahead: Prepare the olive mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. You can assemble the bread just before baking, making it an excellent option for last-minute gatherings.

How to Serve Olive Cheese Bread

Serving Olive Cheese Bread can be both stylish and straightforward! Here are some delightful ideas to present this crowd-pleaser:

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a bright color contrast and a hint of freshness to balance the rich flavors.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a kick, a light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes on top can elevate the dish with a spicy touch.

Side Dishes

• Garden salad: A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpart to the richness of the cheese bread.
• Vegetable platter: Serve an assortment of crunchy raw vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers with a zesty dip. This adds variety while keeping things healthy.
• Bruschetta: Pair your olive cheese bread with some classic bruschetta topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic drizzle for an Italian flair that complements the flavors perfectly.
• Antipasto platter: Create an antipasto platter featuring marinated artichokes, roasted red peppers, and assorted olives. It makes for an appealing presentation alongside your olive cheese bread.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your guests (or yourself!) with this delicious Olive Cheese Bread. Enjoy every savory bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Olive Cheese Bread is perfect for meal prep and gatherings, making it a convenient option for busy days or entertaining guests. You can easily prepare it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Prepare the Olive Cheese Bread as directed but do not bake.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
• Remove any wrapping from the bread and place it on a baking sheet.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through and cheese is melty again. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional minute.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Olive Cheese Bread!

Can I use different types of cheese in Olive Cheese Bread?

Absolutely! You can swap out Monterey Jack for other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella. Just ensure they melt well!

How can I make Olive Cheese Bread gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, simply substitute the French bread with a gluten-free bread of your choice. The rest of the recipe remains unchanged!

What are some great dips to serve with Olive Cheese Bread?

This delicious snack pairs well with marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or even a fresh herb dip. Get creative with your favorites!

Can I customize the olives used in Olive Cheese Bread?

Definitely! Feel free to mix different types of olives such as Kalamata or stuffed olives based on your preference.

How do I know when my Olive Cheese Bread is done baking?

Look for melted cheese with golden-brown edges on the crust. If you’re unsure, use a knife to check if it’s hot inside!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Olive Cheese Bread as much as I do! It’s such a crowd-pleaser that brings people together over good food and laughter. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it during a cozy night in, it’s sure to become a favorite. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; I’m sure you’ll love every cheesy bite!