When you’re in the mood for a savory, cheesy treat that’s perfect as an appetizer or side dish, Olive Cheese Bread is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. This indulgent bread is packed with rich flavors from melted cheese, tangy olives, and a buttery base that comes together effortlessly. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing game-day snacks, or simply looking for a flavorful side to complement your meal, Olive Cheese Bread fits the bill.
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. A mixture of green and black olives, combined with a blend of cheeses and mayonnaise, is spread generously over a crusty loaf of French bread before being baked to golden perfection. The result is a crispy, cheesy masterpiece with a salty, briny twist that adds a punch of flavor in every bite.
What makes this recipe even more appealing is how easy it is to customize. You can switch up the types of cheese, add fresh herbs, or even throw in a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra heat. No matter how you modify it, Olive Cheese Bread never disappoints.
This bread is also perfect for entertaining. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time and can be popped in the oven just before guests arrive, filling your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma that’s sure to get everyone excited. Plus, it pairs beautifully with soups, salads, pasta, and grilled meats, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
For those who love bold, savory flavors, this recipe is a dream come true. The combination of creamy, melted cheese and the tangy burst of olives creates a harmony of tastes that’s hard to resist. Each slice delivers a perfect balance of textures—crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside.
Kids and adults alike will fall in love with this cheesy delight. It’s a great way to introduce children to the unique flavors of olives while giving them a dish that feels indulgent and fun to eat. Plus, leftovers (if there are any!) reheat beautifully, making for an easy snack the next day.
If you’re looking for a delicious way to elevate your appetizer game or add a savory twist to your dinner table, Olive Cheese Bread is the answer. This recipe is quick to prepare, packed with bold flavors, and guaranteed to disappear fast.
Don’t be surprised if this cheesy, olive-studded bread becomes a regular feature at your gatherings. It’s that good.
Servings
Serves 8 people
Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread, halved lengthwise
- 1 cup black olives, chopped
- 1 cup green olives, chopped
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Olive Mixture: In a large bowl, combine chopped black olives, green olives, softened butter, mayonnaise, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and oregano (if using). Stir until well combined.
- Prepare the Bread: Slice the French bread in half lengthwise and place it cut side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Spread the Mixture: Evenly spread the olive and cheese mixture over each half of the bread, making sure to cover the surface completely.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional): For a crispier top, turn on the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired. Allow to cool slightly before slicing.
- Slice and Enjoy: Cut the bread into slices and serve warm.
Tips
- Use Quality Bread: A crusty French bread or baguette works best for this recipe. It holds up well to the rich topping and provides the perfect crunchy texture.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Try adding Parmesan, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the olive mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Spread it on the bread just before baking.
- Add Extra Flavor: Enhance the mixture with minced garlic, fresh basil, or chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
- Storage and Reheating: Leftover Olive Cheese Bread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
Summary
Olive Cheese Bread is a cheesy, savory delight that’s perfect for entertaining or elevating a weeknight dinner. Loaded with tangy olives, melted cheese, and buttery goodness, this recipe is easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, and watch it disappear in no time.
Olive Cheese Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread halved lengthwise
- 1 cup black olives chopped
- 1 cup green olives chopped
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano optional
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Olive Mixture: In a large bowl, combine chopped black olives, green olives, softened butter, mayonnaise, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and oregano (if using). Stir until well combined.
- Prepare the Bread: Slice the French bread in half lengthwise and place it cut side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Spread the Mixture: Evenly spread the olive and cheese mixture over each half of the bread, making sure to cover the surface completely.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional): For a crispier top, turn on the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired. Allow to cool slightly before slicing.
- Slice and Enjoy: Cut the bread into slices and serve warm.
Notes
- Use Quality Bread: A crusty French bread or baguette works best for this recipe. It holds up well to the rich topping and provides the perfect crunchy texture.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Try adding Parmesan, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the olive mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Spread it on the bread just before baking.
- Add Extra Flavor: Enhance the mixture with minced garlic, fresh basil, or chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
- Storage and Reheating: Leftover Olive Cheese Bread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.