Irresistible Olive Cheese Bread: The Ultimate Cheesy Appetizer
Briny olives and creamy Monterey Jack come together in a crowd-winning cheesy snack.
Olive Cheese Bread: The Ultimate Savory Appetizer
Few appetizers capture a room’s attention quite like Olive Cheese Bread. This rustic, oozy, delightfully salty snack combines the briny boldness of olives with the gooey magic of Monterey Jack cheese, all atop crispy French bread. Equally fitting as a hearty snack, a side for soups and salads, or the centerpiece at a party, this bread is as easy to make as it is irresistible to eat. Whether you’re a fan of olives or cheese, you’ll soon discover that this recipe is a delicious, crowd-pleasing staple .
Why Olive Cheese Bread is a Must-Try
- Rich and savory flavors from two types of olives and creamy cheese
- Simple ingredients that are easy to find and quick to assemble
- Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, side dish, or hearty snack
- Make-ahead friendly: Prep the mixture in advance or use as a dip
This bread is a favorite among home cooks for its bold flavor and its forgiving, fuss-free method. If you’re seeking something unique for your next gathering, or a robust compliment to a light soup or salad, this is the recipe to keep in your repertoire.
Ingredients: The Cast of Characters
One of the secrets to the bread’s legendary flavor is its blend of simple but high-impact ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 loaf French Bread (about 20–24 inches in length)
- 8 oz pimiento-stuffed green olives
- 8 oz black olives
- 2 green onions (scallions)
- 1 stick butter (room temperature, not melted)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably not low-fat)
- 1 lb Monterey Jack cheese (grated)
Tip: Don’t be afraid of the mayonnaise—it enriches the spread and helps everything melt together. Even mayo skeptics are often surprised by how it disappears into the gooey blend .
Step-By-Step Directions
1. Prep the Olives and Green Onions
Start by roughly chopping both the pimiento-stuffed green olives and the black olives. The idea is to get bite-size pieces that offer bursts of briny flavor but don’t dominate the bread. Slice the green onions (scallions) thinly, then give them a quick chop to distribute their subtle sharpness evenly.
2. Mix the Cheese Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter and mayonnaise.
- Stir in the grated Monterey Jack cheese.
- Add the chopped olives and green onions.
- Stir everything together until the mixture is thoroughly combined.
This thick, chunky spread is what gives the bread its famously gooey and savory topping.
3. Assemble the Bread
- Slice the loaf of French bread in half lengthwise to create two long, open-faced pieces.
- Spoon the cheese-olive mixture onto each half, spreading it to the edges for maximum coverage.
- Don’t worry if it looks thick: the topping will melt, bubble, and seep into the bread.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, topping side up, and bake for 20–25 minutes.
- Check occasionally: you want the cheese fully melted, bubbling, and just beginning to brown at the edges.
Once baked, allow the cheesy loaves to cool for a few minutes. Then use a sharp, serrated knife to cut into thick slices or narrow fingers for serving—perfect for parties or as an accompaniment to meals .
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The Best Ways to Serve Olive Cheese Bread
Olive Cheese Bread is endlessly versatile. Consider serving it with:
- A fresh, crisp green salad to balance the salty richness
- Hearty soups such as tomato, minestrone, or creamy potato
- Alongside classic spaghetti or lasagna for a twist on garlic bread
- Appetizer platters, cut into finger-sized portions
Pro tip: For parties, slice the bread into thin strips before baking for easy, no-mess snacking.
Customize Your Olive Cheese Bread
The classic recipe is perfection, but it’s also endlessly adaptable. Here are ways to make it your own:
- Swap cheeses: Try a blend of Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone for different flavor profiles.
- Add herbs: Mix minced fresh parsley, basil, or oregano into the cheese blend for an herbal lift.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
- Vegetarian variations: Add chopped roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or marinated artichoke hearts.
Experiment to find the perfect version for your taste and guest preferences.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Prepare the cheese-olive spread up to 2 days in advance. Store it covered in the fridge.
- Assemble just before baking for best texture and crispness.
- Freezing: You can prepare the bread, wrap tightly, and freeze. Bake straight from the freezer, extending baking time by a few minutes .
If you find yourself with leftover topping after a party, use it as a cold dip for crackers or crostini. It also pairs well with vegetables like celery sticks or cherry tomatoes.
Ree Drummond’s Family Story
According to The Pioneer Woman, Olive Cheese Bread became legendary during a luncheon she hosted for over 200 cattlewomen. Although she served an elaborate spread, the olive cheese bread was the runaway favorite. Its status as a comfort food—and go-to entertainer’s recipe—was solidified from that point forward. Ree’s notes also share the bread’s role as a satisfying snack during pregnancy cravings, underscoring its ability to satisfy cheesy, salty, carb cravings whenever they strike .
Nutrition and Dietary Considerations
This bread is a treat best enjoyed in moderation. The blend of butter, cheese, and mayonnaise ensures a rich calorie count, while the olives provide healthy fats, vitamin E, and fiber. For those watching sodium, be aware that olives and cheese contribute to a high salt content.
- For a lighter twist, consider using part-skim cheese or light mayonnaise. However, the full-fat versions melt best and stay truest to the original.
- To make it vegetarian, be sure to use cheese made without animal rennet.
Table: Olive Cheese Bread Ingredients at a Glance
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| French Bread | 1 loaf | Base for topping |
| Pimiento-stuffed Green Olives | 8 oz | Briny, sharp flavor |
| Black Olives | 8 oz | Earthy mildness |
| Green Onions | 2 stalks | Fresh, mild bite |
| Butter (room temperature) | 1 stick | Richness and meltability |
| Mayonnaise | 1/2 cup | Creaminess & melting |
| Monterey Jack Cheese | 1 lb (grated) | Gooey texture, mellow flavor |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Olive Cheese Bread in advance?
A: Yes! You can prepare the cheese-olive spread mixture up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate. For make-ahead convenience, assemble and freeze the bread. Bake just before serving, adding a few minutes to the cooking time if baking from frozen .
Q: Can I leave out the mayonnaise?
A: Mayo helps create a creamy, cohesive spread and aids with melting. If you need to avoid mayonnaise, try substituting with softened cream cheese or sour cream for a similar richness. That said, most people never notice the mayo flavor once it’s baked .
Q: What type of bread works best?
A: French bread is classic due to its crusty exterior and soft crumb. You can also use Italian bread, ciabatta, or sub rolls for different shapes and textures.
Q: Is there a way to make it less salty?
A: The olives and cheese are naturally salty. Rinse the olives before chopping and use unsalted butter to reduce saltiness. Try using fewer green olives (which are saltier) and more black olives for a milder flavor.
Q: Can I substitute the cheese?
A: Yes. Monterey Jack melts beautifully, but you can use mozzarella, cheddar, provolone, or a blend for your preferred flavor and texture.
Final Tips for a Foolproof Cheesy Bread
- Use quality olives and cheese: Since these are the star ingredients, their quality will shine through.
- Let your butter soften: This helps the spread mix together effortlessly.
- Don’t overbake: Watch for bubbling, golden cheese and crisped bread; pull from the oven before it burns.
- Serve warm: The bread is best when the cheese is gooey and molten.
Share and Enjoy!
Whether you’re feeding a crowd, looking for a zesty snack, or just indulging a serious cheese craving, Olive Cheese Bread will not disappoint. Its warmth, saltiness, and unique olive tang offer comfort and boldness in every bite. Bake it once, and you’ll soon join the legions who serve this at every opportunity—from casual weeknights to festive gatherings. As Ree Drummond herself put it, “Olive Cheese Bread—those words alone make my mouth water. Let’s make some, shall we?”
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