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Olive Cheese Bread Recipe

4.8 from 101 reviews

This Olive Cheese Bread is a savory and irresistible appetizer or snack featuring a crusty French bread loaf loaded with a creamy mixture of mozzarella, cheddar, cream cheese, and chopped olives, seasoned with garlic, oregano, and optional red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Baked until golden and bubbly, this dish is perfect for sharing warm at any gathering or enjoying as a comforting treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread

  • 1 loaf French bread (or Italian bread)

Cheese and Olive Mixture

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup pitted olives, chopped (green, black, or a mix)
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the loaf of French bread in half lengthwise and place the halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
  2. Make the Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, shredded cheddar, softened cream cheese, chopped olives, mayonnaise, minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes if using, and salt and pepper. Mix until well blended and creamy.
  3. Assemble the Bread: Spread the cheese and olive mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread halves, ensuring full coverage.
  4. Bake the Bread: Place the baking sheet with the assembled bread in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese mixture is melted, bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
  5. Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the bread to cool slightly. Optionally, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for garnish. Slice into pieces and serve warm for best flavor.

Notes

  • You can customize the olives used based on your preference: green, black, or a combination works well.
  • Adjust the red pepper flakes to your desired level of spiciness, or omit them entirely if you prefer no heat.
  • For a crispier crust, place the bread on a wire rack set over the baking sheet during baking.
  • Mayonnaise adds moisture and richness; you can substitute with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a slightly different texture.
  • Leftover bread can be stored in an airtight container and reheated gently in the oven before serving.

Keywords: olive cheese bread, baked cheese bread, savory bread appetizer, French bread recipe, cheesy olive bread