Olive Cheese Bread Recipe

When I say this Olive Cheese Bread disappears the second it hits the table, I mean it! Imagine a crispy, golden loaf overflowing with briny olives, gooey Monterey Jack, and a luscious, creamy base. It’s savory, melty, and utterly craveable—every slice feels like an indulgent treat, whether you’re hosting friends or just want to treat yourself to something ridiculously delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Olive Cheese Bread comes from the way simple ingredients join forces to make something greater than the sum of their parts. Each one brings texture, color, and that signature pop of flavor—don’t be tempted to skip a thing!

• Full fat sour cream: Adds extraordinary silkiness and richness to the cheesy base, ensuring every mouthful is lush and creamy.
• Softened butter: Blended into the sour cream for a velvety texture and that classic, homey warmth.
• Green olives (drained and sliced): Deliver a bright, tangy, briny burst that keeps every bite punchy and satisfying.
• Black olives (drained and sliced): Offer a mellow, earthy saltiness that perfectly balances their green cousins.
• Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: The melty, creamy star of the show—its mild flavor highlights the olives beautifully.
• Thinly sliced green onions: Lend a fresh, subtle bite and hint of color that lifts the whole bread.
• Garlic powder: Adds savory depth and brings everything together (no garlic mincing needed!).
• French bread loaf: The hearty base that crisps up beautifully under all those toppings.
• Kosher salt & fresh cracked pepper: Essential for seasoning and making all the flavors sing.

Variations

One of my favorite things about Olive Cheese Bread is how forgiving and versatile it is. Whether you need to use up random fridge finds, work around allergies, or cater to picky eaters—this recipe lets you have fun with tasty swaps!

• Different Cheeses: Swap half (or all) the Monterey Jack for mozzarella, sharp cheddar, or gouda for your own signature twist.
• Add Heat: Fold in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a handful of sliced pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Make it Veggie-packed: Toss in diced sun-dried tomatoes, chopped roasted red peppers, or even fresh baby spinach for an extra garden vibe.
• Low-carb Option: Use sliced roasted portobello mushrooms as a base instead of bread for a gluten-free, veggie-forward version.

How to Make Olive Cheese Bread

Step 1: Mix the Cheesy Base

Start by grabbing a medium bowl and stirring together the sour cream, softened butter, garlic powder, and a good pinch of kosher salt and pepper. The goal is a creamy, dreamy mix—don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth, just make sure those flavors are blending nicely.

Step 2: Stir in the Cheese and Green Onions

Add your shredded Monterey Jack cheese and thinly sliced green onions. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated. This gives you those lovely savory notes, little bursts of green color, and all the melty goodness we crave in Olive Cheese Bread.

Step 3: Fold in the Olives

Now, gently fold in your green and black olives. Don’t overmix—you want the olives to stay in pieces, giving that perfect briny pop in every bite instead of getting mashed into the cheese.

Step 4: Prep and Top the Bread

Slice your French bread loaf in half widthwise, then slice each half lengthwise so you have four big pieces. Place them cut side up on a baking sheet, then spread the olive-cheese mixture evenly over each piece. Be generous—every surface deserves that luscious topping!

Step 5: Bake and Broil

Pop the bread into a preheated 350°F oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is beautifully melted and the edges are crisp and gently golden. For an irresistible finish, broil for 1-2 minutes—just until the top picks up deep golden spots.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

When the Olive Cheese Bread is bubbling and toasty, remove it from the oven. Slice into thick strips or squares, sprinkle on fresh parsley, and get ready to watch it disappear! Serve immediately while it’s gooey and hot.

How to Serve Olive Cheese Bread

Garnishes

Scatter freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top right after broiling for a burst of color and brightness. If you love a little extra zip, sprinkle on some cracked black pepper or a handful of chopped chives. The finishing herbs make each bite feel extra fresh and inviting!

Side Dishes

This savory Olive Cheese Bread absolutely shines alongside classic comfort dishes—think big bowls of tomato soup, a crisp Caesar salad, or a hearty stew. Or simply serve it with marinated veggies and your favorite dips for an easy party platter.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, slice the bread into bite-sized pieces and serve on a rustic wooden board with toothpicks. Want to impress? Arrange slices in a bread basket lined with a linen napkin, or pile them around a bowl of marinara or tapenade for a dramatic centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow have leftovers (it’s rare!), let them cool, then wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days—trust me, it makes a killer lunch or afternoon snack the next day.

Freezing

For longer storage, assemble and freeze unbaked Olive Cheese Bread wrapped in foil. When you’re ready, bake straight from the freezer (adding a few extra minutes to the cook time). Baked slices can also be frozen individually and quickly reheated for last-minute cravings!

Reheating

Reheat leftover slices in a 350°F oven (uncovered) for 8–10 minutes until the cheese is melty and the bread is toasty again. The microwave works in a pinch, but the oven brings back that irresistible crispness.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a cheesy, briny, utterly irresistible appetizer or snack, Olive Cheese Bread delivers every single time. It’s joyfully easy, loaded with flavor, and always a favorite—so gather your friends (or just treat yourself) and enjoy every last golden, gooey bite!

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