Olive Cheese Bread Appetizer

This olive cheese bread is my go-to party snack when I need something fast and crave-worthy that always disappears in minutes. Bubbling cheese, tangy olives, and soft bread make every bite the best kind of comfort food. Whether served at gatherings or for a weeknight treat, this recipe gets rave reviews from every olive fan at my table.

I made this the first time with leftover green and black olives after a holiday platter and it instantly became a family favorite. Now it’s the most requested dish at birthdays and game nights because it’s so simple to toss together last minute.

Ingredients

• Full fat sour cream: gives a luscious creamy texture to the spread try to use the thickest you can find for best results
• Softened butter: adds richness and helps the bread toast evenly look for high-quality real butter over margarine
• Green olives: add a briny tang make sure they are pitted and firm for easy slicing
• Black olives: bring mild earthy flavor use whole olives when possible for better texture
• Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: melts beautifully and ties everything together shredding your own from a block melts far better than bagged
• Green onions: provide a fresh bite slice them thinly for a little crunch
• Garlic powder: boosts savory depth opt for a fresh jar for best flavor
• French bread: is sturdy enough to hold the toppings and develops the best crisp edges look for a loaf with a chewy crust rather than soft sandwich bread
• Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper: season the mix and wake up all the flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix the Cream Base:

In a medium bowl stir together the sour cream softened butter garlic powder kosher salt and pepper. Aim for a mostly smooth blend so the toppings spread easily.

Add Cheese and Green Onions:

Gently fold in shredded Monterey Jack and thinly sliced green onions. Make sure the cheese is distributed evenly so that every slice gets a cheesy pull.

Incorporate the Olives:

Fold in the green and black olives. Try to keep them intact so you get good-sized pieces in each bite. This is also the step to chop instead of slice if you want a rustic appearance.

Prepare and Slice the Bread:

Cut the French bread in half widthwise then in half lengthwise to end up with four open-faced bread pieces. Arrange bread pieces cut side up on a sheet pan for assembly.

Spread the Olive Mixture:

Divide the olive and cheese mixture evenly between the four bread sections. Spread it right to the very edge for the best cheesy bites in every corner.

Bake to Melt:

Place the assembled bread pieces into a 350 degree oven. Bake for twenty to twenty five minutes or until the cheese has fully melted and the bread edges are just golden.

Broil to Finish:

Move the bread under the broiler for a minute or two. Watch closely for bubbling and deep golden brown spots on top which mean it is ready.

Slice and Garnish:

Use a serrated knife to slice the bread into smaller pieces. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.

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What I look forward to most is that layer of gooey cheese stretched around every olive. Monterey Jack is a staple in my kitchen because it always melts perfectly. Watching my daughter sneak olive slices while I assemble the bread is a cherished memory every time we make this together.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat slices in a toaster oven or regular oven until the cheese is melty again and the edges regain their crunch. Avoid microwaving since this tends to make the bread soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap Monterey Jack for mozzarella if you want a more mild flavor or even add a handful of cheddar for sharper notes. For a little heat mix in chopped pickled jalapeños or swap green olives for Kalamata for a deeper brininess. Whole wheat baguette or ciabatta loaf works well in place of traditional French bread.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the bread as an appetizer for parties cut into strips for easy grabbing. It pairs with tomato soup for a hearty lunch and is also delicious with a crisp salad on the side. Add to a charcuterie board for something unexpected among classic meats and cheeses.

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Cultural Background

Cheese breads have a long tradition in many food cultures from French gougères to American cheese toast but this version owes most of its popularity to the Midwest’s love of casseroles and baked cheese appetizers. Olives bring Mediterranean flair and make this dish a wonderful American fusion snack.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different cheese instead of Monterey Jack?

Yes, you can substitute Monterey Jack with similar melting cheeses like mozzarella or mild cheddar for a different flavor profile.

→ Is it necessary to slice the olives myself?

Slicing whole olives yourself helps them retain their structure and freshness, but pre-sliced olives are convenient if you're in a hurry.

→ Can this appetizer be prepared ahead of time?

You can prepare the olive and cheese mixture in advance and store it chilled. Spread and bake just before serving for best results.

→ What are some ideal garnishes for serving?

Fresh chopped parsley adds color and brightness. A sprinkle of extra green onions or cracked pepper also works well.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Leftover bread can be wrapped and refrigerated, then reheated in the oven to restore crispness before enjoying again.