Olive Cheese Bread Appetizer: A Cozy Treat for Every Gathering
Once you take a bite of this Olive Cheese Bread Appetizer, you’ll be enveloped in a warm embrace of creamy cheeses and savory olives, all nestled on a crusty slice of bread. There’s something inherently nostalgic about sharing this dish with friends and family, as it brings back memories of cozy gatherings spent around a dining table, laughter drifting through the air, and the intoxicating aroma of baked cheese wafting through the house. Whether you’re looking for an easy party appetizer or a comforting dish to share on a chilly evening, this recipe ticks all the boxes for a delightful and satisfying experience.
Ready to make your taste buds dance? This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare, making it perfect for impromptu gatherings or cozy nights in.
- Creamy and cheesy, with a perfect balance of flavors from the olives and spices.
- A crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
- Easily customizable to suit varying tastes and dietary preferences.
- Great for meal prep! Make it ahead of time for a stress-free entertaining experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Olive Cheese Bread Appetizer
- 1 large French baguette or Italian bread loaf
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup black olives, chopped
- 1/2 cup green olives, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Olive Cheese Bread Appetizer
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). The anticipation of that warm, bubbling goodness will fill your kitchen!
- Cut the French baguette or Italian bread loaf in half lengthwise. Place the halves on a baking sheet, cut side up. Just look at those golden edges; they’re the perfect canvas for our cheesy mixture!
- In a mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, mayonnaise, and cream cheese. Stir until well combined. This creamy concoction will be the star of your culinary masterpiece!
- Add in the chopped black olives, chopped green olives, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until evenly blended. The colors alone will make your heart sing!
- Spread the olive and cheese mixture generously over the cut sides of the bread halves. Don’t be shy – you want that delicious mix to be as thick as possible!
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. This is when the magic happens – your home will smell divine!
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing into bite-sized pieces. Serve warm as an appetizer. Get ready for compliments!
Delicious Variations to Try
- Herbed Delight: Incorporate different fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a zesty twist. The garden-fresh taste will elevate this dish.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for an extra layer of flavor. Who doesn’t love a good kick?
- Sun-Dried Tomato Addition: Mix in some sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet, tangy flavor. They provide a lovely contrast to the creaminess of the cheese.
- Artichoke Spinach Bliss: For a richer version, consider adding chopped spinach or artichokes. It’ll have an indulgent creamy quality that’s hard to resist.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make It Ahead: This Olive Cheese Bread is perfect for prepping in advance! You can assemble it a few hours before your gathering—just pop it in the oven when your guests arrive.
- Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have certain cheeses on hand, feel free to use any combination of cheese you like! A blend of cheddar and gouda can add a nutty flavor.
- Slicing Tricks: Make sure to slice the bread halfway through so it’s easier to pull apart after baking, making serving that much simpler.
- Storage Suggestions: Leftovers can be wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap; just reheat in the oven to keep that crispy texture.
Nutrition Information per Serving
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 170
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Sugar: 1g
- Total Fat: 10g
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this ahead? Yes! Assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Can I use different ingredients? Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match olives or use a different cheese.
- How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
- How long does it last? Once baked, it’s best enjoyed within a day or two for optimal freshness!
Wrapping It Up
This Olive Cheese Bread Appetizer is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. With its creamy, indulgent flavors and golden-brown crust, it’s no wonder this recipe has secured a place in my heart (and my recipe collection!). Save this Olive Cheese Bread Appetizer to your appetizer board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! Happy cooking, friends!
Olive Cheese Bread Appetizer
Ingredients
For the bread base
- 1 large French baguette or Italian bread loaf
For the cheese mixture
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup cream cheese softened
For the olive mix
- 1/2 cup black olives chopped
- 1/2 cup green olives chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the French baguette or Italian bread loaf in half lengthwise. Place the halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, mayonnaise, and cream cheese. Stir until well combined.
- Add in the chopped black olives, chopped green olives, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until evenly blended.
- Spread the olive and cheese mixture generously over the cut sides of the bread halves.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
- Serve warm as an appetizer.
