Olive Cheese Bread

Imagine pulling a golden, crusty loaf from the oven, slicing into it, and discovering layers of bubbling cheese, briny olives, and fresh herbs melding together in a warm, melty masterpiece. That’s Olive Cheese Bread. It’s not just a side dish, it’s a scene-stealer, the kind of recipe that turns simple dinners into something memorable.

Behind the Recipe

This one brings back memories of Sunday evenings at my grandma’s kitchen. She’d whip up this cheesy, olive-stuffed bread just before we all sat down for dinner. The smell alone was enough to get everyone to the table without a second call. It’s warm, gooey, and just rustic enough to feel homemade but special enough for guests.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

While stuffed breads have roots in various culinary traditions, Olive Cheese Bread has that cozy, Mediterranean flair. Olives have been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries, and combining them with cheese and warm bread is a natural match. Think of it as a cousin to focaccia or cheesy garlic bread, just taken to the next level.

Why You’ll Love Olive Cheese Bread

Let me tell you why this one’s a total game-changer:

Versatile: Serve it as a side, appetizer, or even the main event at a cozy brunch.

Budget-Friendly: Uses everyday pantry staples and affordable ingredients.

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.

Customizable: Mix in your favorite cheeses or different types of olives.

Crowd-Pleasing: It disappears fast—people always go back for seconds.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble earlier in the day and bake when ready.

Great for Leftovers: Reheats like a dream and makes a killer snack.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

If you want this to taste like it came from a cozy bakery, here are some tips:

• Use a mix of green and black olives for a balance of briny and mellow flavors.
• Grate your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese has additives that can make the texture less melty.
• Slightly toast the bread halves before adding the topping to prevent sogginess.
• Add a touch of garlic powder or minced garlic to the mix for extra depth.
• Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil for color and freshness.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to bring this recipe to life:

Mixing Bowl: For combining the cheesy olive filling.

Serrated Knife: To slice the bread cleanly after baking.

Baking Sheet: Holds the bread steady while baking and catches any cheesy drips.

Spoon or Spatula: For spreading the filling evenly across the bread.

Ingredients in Olive Cheese Bread

The magic lies in how these simple ingredients come together:

1. French Bread Loaf: 1 loaf, halved lengthwise. It forms the perfect base with a crisp crust and soft center.
2. Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup. Helps bind the filling and adds creaminess.
3. Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons, softened. Adds richness and helps with browning.
4. Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup. Melts beautifully and gives that stretchy texture.
5. Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup. Adds sharpness and color contrast.
6. Pitted Black Olives: 1 cup, roughly chopped. Provide a salty, bold flavor.
7. Green Olives with Pimentos: 1/2 cup, sliced. Adds tang and a pop of color.
8. Green Onion: 1/3 cup, finely sliced. Brings freshness and bite.
9. Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon. Enhances the overall savory flavor.
10. Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped. Used for garnish and a hint of herby brightness.

Ingredient Substitutions

Making swaps is totally doable here:

French Bread: Ciabatta or sourdough works well.

Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Mozzarella Cheese: Try provolone or fontina.

Cheddar Cheese: Gouda or Monterey Jack for a mellow twist.

Green Onion: Chives or shallots in a pinch.

Ingredient Spotlight

Olives: Salty, bold, and full of umami. Black olives bring depth, while green ones add zing.

Mozzarella Cheese: Known for its amazing meltability, it gives that irresistible gooey pull in every bite.

Instructions for Making Olive Cheese Bread

Now let’s dive into the steps to make your kitchen smell like heaven.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, mix the mayonnaise, butter, both cheeses, olives, green onion, and garlic powder until everything’s well combined.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Place the bread halves on your lined baking sheet, cut side up.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Spoon the cheesy olive mixture evenly onto both halves of the bread. Spread it all the way to the edges.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Remove from oven and let it rest for a minute or two. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Slice into thick pieces and serve warm. Trust me, you’re going to love this.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

Expect a crunchy, golden crust with a gooey, salty, cheesy filling. The olives pop through with each bite, offering little bursts of flavor. The herbs and garlic pull it all together for a comforting yet zesty profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make it easy on yourself with these ideas:

• Pre-shred the cheese a day before to cut down prep time.
• Double the batch and freeze one unbaked for later.
• Toast leftover slices in a skillet for a crispy next-day snack.

What to Avoid

A little care goes a long way:

• Don’t use wet or watery olives, or the bread can get soggy.
• Avoid overbaking. Once the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden, it’s done.
• Don’t skimp on the filling. A generous spread means maximum flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 380
Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prep the filling hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to assemble. Leftover slices store well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster for the best texture. Avoid microwaving unless you’re in a real hurry—it softens the crust too much.

How to Serve Olive Cheese Bread

Serve it with soup, salad, or alongside pasta. It’s also fantastic as a game-day snack or brunch centerpiece. A light drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze over the top? Chef’s kiss.

Creative Leftover Transformations

If you’ve got a few pieces left, here’s what to do:

• Dice and mix into scrambled eggs for a savory breakfast.
• Turn into mini grilled sandwiches with extra cheese.
• Cube and toast for cheesy croutons in tomato soup.

Additional Tips

• Let the bread rest a few minutes before slicing so it holds its shape.
• Use a serrated knife for cleaner cuts.
• For extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.

Make It a Showstopper

Before serving, add a final dusting of parmesan and a sprinkle of chili flakes. Place on a wooden board with fresh herbs and a small dipping bowl of marinara for added flair.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Jalapeño Olive Bread: Add diced pickled jalapeños to the mix.
• Herbed Garlic Bread: Replace olives with roasted garlic and fresh rosemary.
• Caprese Version: Add cherry tomato halves and basil.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Twist: Swap green olives for chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
• Three-Cheese Delight: Mix in a third cheese like Parmesan for added depth.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make this without mayonnaise?
A1: Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter touch.

Q2: Can I use different types of olives?
A2: Absolutely. Kalamata, Castelvetrano, or even stuffed olives all work great.

Q3: Can I make this gluten-free?
A3: Just use a gluten-free baguette or bread loaf.

Q4: How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?
A4: Toast the bread slightly before adding the topping, and avoid watery olives.

Q5: Can I freeze this bread?
A5: Yes, freeze it unbaked and wrapped tightly. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Q6: What’s the best cheese combo?
A6: Mozzarella and cheddar give a great balance of melt and flavor, but you can explore others.

Q7: Can I use fresh garlic instead of powder?
A7: Definitely. One to two minced cloves should do the trick.

Q8: How long will leftovers last?
A8: About 3 days in the fridge, wrapped or in a sealed container.

Q9: Can I serve this cold?
A9: It’s best warm, but if cooled properly, it still tastes great at room temp.

Q10: What can I pair this with?
A10: Tomato soup, Caesar salad, or even a light pasta dish make great companions.

Conclusion

Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or need something quick and satisfying for guests, Olive Cheese Bread delivers big-time flavor with minimal effort. It’s warm, comforting, and just the right kind of indulgent. Go ahead, slice in and savor every bite.

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