This Olive Cheese Bread Recipe is a delightful fusion of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors baked right into a crusty French bread. Imagine biting into a golden, bubbling cheese topping studded with briny olives and fresh green onions, all melting into soft, buttery bread beneath. It’s the ultimate snack or party hit that’s so easy to whip up but delivers an unforgettable taste every time. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, a side, or just because you deserve an indulgent treat, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Olive Cheese Bread Recipe is in its simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients that work together to create an explosion of flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role, from the creamy cheese to the salty olives and the fresh zing of green onions.
- French Bread: Acts as the perfect sturdy base with a crisp crust and soft center that soaks up all the delicious toppings.
- Spanish Queen Pimento Stuffed Olives: Add a bright pop of flavor and a little sweetness from the pimentos.
- Black Olives (drained): Bring a slightly bitter, salty depth that balances the cheese beautifully.
- Green Onions (scallions): Provide fresh, mild onion flavor and a bit of crunch.
- Butter (room temperature): Ensures a rich, creamy base and helps everything spread smoothly.
- Mayonnaise: Adds tanginess and helps keep the mixture moist and cohesive.
- Monterey Jack Cheese (grated): Melts perfectly, offering a mild and creamy texture that holds everything together.
How to Make Olive Cheese Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Olives and Green Onions
Start by roughly chopping both the Spanish Queen pimento stuffed olives and the black olives. This ensures they’ll be evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture, giving every bite a tasty olive burst. Then thinly slice the green onions to add a fresh, crisp element that will brighten the rich spread.
Step 2: Mix the Spreads Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine the room temperature butter and mayonnaise for a creamy base. Add the grated Monterey Jack cheese, chopped olives, and sliced green onions. Stir everything thoroughly until well blended—you’ll see that inviting combination of colors and textures come together for the perfect topping.
Step 3: Spread the Mixture on Bread
Take your loaf of French bread and slice it lengthwise, creating two long halves. Spread the olive and cheese mixture thickly and evenly onto each half, making sure to cover every inch so the flavors soak into the bread during baking.
Step 4: Bake to Melty Perfection
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the prepared bread halves on a baking sheet and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it as the cheese melts and starts to brown beautifully; that golden color means it’s ready to take out and serve. The result? A bubbly, savory masterpiece with crispy edges and a soft, flavorful interior.
How to Serve Olive Cheese Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a garnish can elevate your Olive Cheese Bread Recipe even further. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a fresh herbal note. If you like a bit of heat, a light dusting of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil can give it a subtle kick. Just a few pinches of cracked black pepper also brighten the overall flavor impression.
Side Dishes
This olive cheese bread pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides. Serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette, or a bowl of tomato soup for a cozy combo. It’s also fantastic with roasted vegetables or a chilled antipasto platter featuring cured meats, making it great for casual get-togethers and elegant dinners alike.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the bread into individual servings for a buffet or party platter, arranging them on a wooden board with olives and cheese wedges for a rustic look. You can also cube leftover bread to serve alongside dips or salads, or cut it into smaller bites threaded onto skewers for a fun appetizer twist. Presentation matters, and this bread definitely deserves a little theatrical flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, wrap the Olive Cheese Bread Recipe tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the bread from drying out, and the flavors will actually deepen overnight, making your next serving just as delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze the bread either before or after baking. Wrap tightly in foil and then place in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen cheese bread can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it thoroughly in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
To revive your bread, place it in a preheated 350 degrees Fahrenheit oven for 10 to 15 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melted again. Avoid the microwave to prevent sogginess and instead allow the crust to crisp back up beautifully in the oven.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese for this Olive Cheese Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! While Monterey Jack melts wonderfully and has a mild flavor, you can substitute mozzarella, cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will change the taste and melting properties slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for making ahead of time?
Definitely. You can prepare the olive and cheese mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it. Spread it on the bread and bake right before serving for fresh, hot bread that tastes like it was just made.
What if I don’t have French bread?
While French bread is ideal for its crust and soft inside, a sturdy baguette, ciabatta, or even an Italian loaf can work nicely too. Just choose something with a good crust and airy interior to hold the toppings well.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
You can experiment with vegan butter, mayonnaise, and plant-based cheese alternatives. The flavor won’t be the same but can still be quite tasty for those with dietary restrictions.
How spicy is this Olive Cheese Bread Recipe?
This recipe is naturally mild and very family-friendly. You can add some spicy elements like crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños if you want to give it some heat, but the basic recipe is predominantly creamy and savory with olive tang.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a recipe that’s simple yet packed with flavor, this Olive Cheese Bread Recipe will quickly become your go-to. It’s the perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and savory that satisfies every craving with minimal effort. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without having this delicious, crowd-pleasing bread in your recipe collection. Give it a try and get ready for everyone asking for seconds!
