Are you looking for a delicious, easy-to-make appetizer that delights your guests and satisfies your cravings? Look no further than Olive Cheese Bread! This savory treat combines the rich flavors of olives with creamy cheese and a bit of kick from Sriracha, all nestled in a toasted piece of French bread. It’s perfect for game nights, parties, or just a cozy evening at home. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe so much.
Why We Love This Olive Cheese Bread Recipe
The beauty of Olive Cheese Bread lies in its versatility and bold flavors. The combination of pimiento-stuffed green olives and black olives creates a delightful contrast. Meanwhile, the creamy blend of mayonnaise and softened butter adds a luxurious touch to every bite. Plus, the Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully, bringing everything together in a gooey, irresistible package. Whether you’re an olive lover or are experimenting with new flavors, this bread is sure to impress.
Ingredients for Olive Cheese Bread
To create this delectable Olive Cheese Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 loaf French bread (14 inches long)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Sriracha
- 6 ounces sliced pimiento-stuffed green olives (drained)
- 2.25 ounces sliced black olives (drained)
- 8 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 stalks green onions (diced)
These ingredients are easy to find and combine to create an amazing appetizer that will have your taste buds dancing.
How to Make Olive Cheese Bread
Now that you have gathered the ingredients, it’s time to bring this recipe to life! Follow these easy steps for a perfect Olive Cheese Bread every time.
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is ideal for allowing the cheese to melt without overcooking the bread.
- Prepare the Bread: Take your loaf of French bread and cut it in half lengthwise. This gives you two open surfaces that will be dressed up with our olive-cheese mixture.
- Scoop Out Some Bread: Using your fingers or a spoon, gently scoop out a little bit of the bread from the center of each half. This creates a shallow well that helps hold the filling.
- Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Place the two halves of the bread cut-side up on a baking sheet. This positioning will allow them to toast evenly.
- Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, softened butter, and Sriracha. Stir these ingredients together until smooth and well-combined. This mixture will give your bread a creamy base with a hint of spice.
- Add the Olives and Cheese: Next, add the sliced pimiento-stuffed green olives, black olives, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and diced green onions into the bowl. Mix everything together until evenly distributed. The olives and cheese create an amazing flavor combination that will take your appetizer to the next level.
- Spread the Mixture: Take the filling and divide it between the two bread halves. Spread it evenly ensuring each half is fully covered.
- Bake Your Bread: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and starts to turn a golden-brown color.
- Slice and Serve: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven. Allow the bread to cool for a few minutes before slicing it into 2-inch portions. Now it’s ready to be served!
Olive Cheese Bread is not just tasty; it’s also simple to make, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or cozy nights in.
How to Serve Olive Cheese Bread
Once your Olive Cheese Bread is out of the oven and perfectly sliced, the fun of serving begins! You can serve this delightful appetizer warm or at room temperature. It pairs well with a variety of beverages, from sparkling water to your favorite soft drinks.
Consider placing the sliced bread on a large platter for family-style sharing, or you can arrange individual portions for a more formal presentation. Add some colorful garnishes like chopped parsley or extra green onions to give your plate a pop of color.
Don’t forget to provide small plates or napkins, as this cheesy delight can get a bit messy—but that’s part of the joy! Your guests will enjoy digging in and savoring each cheesy, olive-filled bite.
Expert Tips for Olive Cheese Bread
Creating the perfect Olive Cheese Bread is all about attention to detail. Here are some expert tips to elevate your dish:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh olives and high-quality cheese for the best flavor. If possible, visit a local market to find the freshest options.
- Customize Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of Sriracha or omit it altogether. You can also replace it with a milder hot sauce if you want a touch of heat without overpowering the olives.
- Experiment with Cheese: While Monterey Jack cheese works wonderfully, don’t hesitate to try other varieties. Cheddar or Pepper Jack cheese could add new depth to the flavor profile.
- Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley to your filling can bring brightness to the dish. It also enhances the presentation with an added pop of color.
- Storage Tip: If you find yourself with leftovers (which might be rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave for a quick snack.
How to Store Olive Cheese Bread
If you’re lucky enough to have some Olive Cheese Bread left over, you’ll want to make sure it’s stored correctly to retain its delicious qualities. Here are some simple steps to follow:
- Cool Down: Allow the bread to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess.
- Wrap and Seal: Place any leftover bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. This keeps the bread fresh and prevents it from drying out.
- Refrigerate: Store the wrapped bread in your refrigerator if you plan to eat it within a few days. It should last for about 3 to 4 days.
- Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy it again, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, unwrap the bread, and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes until it’s warm and the cheese is melty once more.
Following these steps will ensure that your Olive Cheese Bread remains as tasty as the first day you made it.
Variations of Olive Cheese Bread
Olive Cheese Bread is a versatile recipe that opens the door to many creative variations! Here are a few ideas to experiment with:
- Add Different Cheeses: Mix it up by using a combination of cheeses. Think feta for its tanginess, or mozzarella for a gooey texture.
- Veggie-Inspired: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers, jalapeños, or tomatoes into the filling for an added crunch and flavor.
- Herbed Bread: Instead of a plain French loaf, select an herbed loaf or garlic bread to give your dish an aromatic twist.
- Meat Add-Ins: If you enjoy meats, consider adding diced roasted chicken or diced pepperoni for a protein-packed version of this appetizer.
- Mediterranean Twist: Enhance the flavor profile by adding sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes to the mixture. These ingredients will provide a Mediterranean flair to your Olive Cheese Bread.
Feel free to mix and match ingredients and toppings based on your personal preference. Creativity in the kitchen can lead to discover your very own favorite version!
FAQs about Olive Cheese Bread
What makes Olive Cheese Bread special?
Olive Cheese Bread combines a unique blend of flavors, with the combination of olives, creamy cheese, and a hint of spice from Sriracha. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and tastes, making it a standout appetizer.
How can I adjust the spice level of Olive Cheese Bread?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of Sriracha or use a less spicy hot sauce. Alternatively, feel free to experiment with other spices that suit your taste.
Can I make Olive Cheese Bread ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the bread right before you’re ready to bake it for a fresh, warm appetizer.
What type of olives work best for this recipe?
Both pimiento-stuffed green olives and black olives are used in this recipe, but feel free to substitute or add different varieties of olives according to your taste preferences.
Can I freeze Olive Cheese Bread?
Yes, Olive Cheese Bread can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake it, you can place it directly in the oven, allowing a little extra time for cooking.
Olive Cheese Bread
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread (14 inches long) For best results, use fresh French bread.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened) Make sure it's softened for easy mixing.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Sriracha Adjust according to spice preference.
- 6 ounces sliced pimiento-stuffed green olives (drained)
- 2.25 ounces sliced black olives (drained)
- 8 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese You may substitute with other cheese varieties.
- 2 stalks green onions (diced)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cut the French bread in half lengthwise.
- Gently scoop out some bread from the center of each half to create a shallow well.
- Place the bread halves cut-side up on a baking sheet.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, softened butter, and Sriracha. Mix until smooth.
- Add the green olives, black olives, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and diced green onions to the mixing bowl. Stir until evenly combined.
- Divide the mixture between the two halves of bread, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing into 2-inch portions.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!