Easy Olive Cheese Bread Appetizer is a simple and tasty treat that brings together the salty punch of olives with the gooey goodness of melted cheese on crusty bread. It’s a quick snack or starter that’s perfect for gathering friends or family around the table without spending hours in the kitchen. The crispy outside and soft, cheesy inside create a great texture that everyone seems to love.
I really like making this appetizer when I want something impressive but don’t have a lot of time. It’s one of those recipes where a few quality ingredients come together to make something way better than the sum of its parts. I usually use a mix of green and black olives because they add a nice color and flavor contrast, but feel free to pick your favorite kind of olive. And the cheese – well, you can never go wrong with a good melting cheese like mozzarella or cheddar.
One of my favorite ways to serve this is warm, right out of the oven, alongside a bowl of fresh tomato soup or a simple green salad. It’s awesome for casual get-togethers or even as a quick lunch on a lazy weekend. And if you have leftovers (which sometimes I do!), they make a great snack the next day with a little extra cheese melted on top. This bread appetizer always brings smiles, and I think it will for you, too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: I recommend using French or Italian baguette for its crusty texture. If you want a softer option, a good sourdough loaf or ciabatta can work well too.
Olives: A mix of green and black olives adds nice color and flavor contrast. If olives aren’t your thing, try capers or sun-dried tomatoes as a briny substitute.
Cheese: Mozzarella melts perfectly for that gooey effect. You can swap it with provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a mild cheddar for a sharper taste.
Creamy Spread: The combo of mayonnaise, sour cream, and optional cream cheese gives richness and a little tang. For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
How Do I Get the Cheese Melted Just Right Without Soggy Bread?
To keep the bread crispy and the cheese melted nicely, here’s what works for me:
- Preheat the oven fully so the bread starts crisping immediately.
- Spread the creamy mixture thin and even – too thick can make sogginess.
- Use shredded cheese for quick, even melting.
- Bake on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips and allow hot air to circulate.
- Watch the bread closely near the end; pull it out once cheese is bubbly and edges start golden.
Letting the bread cool a minute before slicing helps keep toppings from sliding off. This way, you get that perfect crispy-cheesy bite every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for holding the bread and catching melted cheese drips.
- Knife – for slicing the bread evenly and safely.
- Mixing bowl – to combine the creamy spread ingredients smoothly.
- Spoon or spatula – easy to spread the mixture evenly on the bread.
- Cheese grater (optional) – if you’re shredding your own cheese for fresher flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky crunch that pairs well with olives and cheese.
- Try feta cheese instead of mozzarella for a tangy, crumbly twist.
- Mix in chopped roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for extra sweetness and color.
- Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle a bit of pesto on top to spice up the flavor.
Easy Olive Cheese Bread Appetizer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of French bread or Italian baguette
- 1 cup mixed olives (green and black), sliced
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Creamy Spread:
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sour cream
- 1 tbsp cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and slices the bread and mix the spread. Baking time is around 12-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. So overall, expect about 25 minutes to have this delicious appetizer ready to serve.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the French bread lengthwise in half to create two long bread halves. This will be the base for your topping.
2. Make the Creamy Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, cream cheese (if using), minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix all ingredients well until smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the Bread:
Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread halves. Then, scatter the sliced olives evenly on top of the creamy spread. Finally, generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the olives, making sure to cover well.
4. Bake and Serve:
Place the bread halves on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges of the bread turn slightly toasted. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Let it cool for a minute, then slice into smaller pieces. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Bread for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh bread for the crispiest texture, but if you only have frozen bread, thaw it completely at room temperature before assembling and baking. This helps prevent sogginess.
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise and Sour Cream?
Yes! You can swap them with Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a lighter or tangier spread. Just adjust seasoning to taste to keep the flavor balanced.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to refresh the crispiness.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to add cooked bacon bits, sun-dried tomatoes, or sprinkle some red pepper flakes for extra flavor and a little heat.