Easy Olive Cheese Bread Appetizer is just what it sounds like—simple, tasty, and packed with flavor. You’ve got the soft, warm bread loaded with melty cheese and the briny kick of olives mixed right in. It’s a perfect little bite that’s both cheesy and a little tangy, making it a crowd favorite whenever I bring it out.
One of the things I love about this appetizer is how quick it comes together. I usually mix some chopped olives and shredded cheese into the dough or sprinkle it on top before baking. It fills the kitchen with that amazing aroma of baked bread and melted cheese, and everyone’s eyes light up when it comes out of the oven. It’s one of those recipes I turn to when I want something comforting yet a bit different from the usual.
I like to serve this bread warm, right from the oven, so the cheese is nice and gooey. It’s perfect to share with friends or just to snack on during game night or casual get-togethers. Sometimes I pair it with a little side of marinara or a fresh salad for a simple, satisfying appetizer spread that always disappears fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: A crusty French or Italian loaf works best for a crispy outside and soft inside. If you can’t find these, a rustic sourdough or ciabatta loaf also works well.
Cheese: Mozzarella melts perfectly and gives gooey texture. Provolone adds a mild sharpness, but you can swap it with Monterey Jack or fontina if you prefer.
Olives: The mix of green and black olives adds tang and saltiness. Use any olives you like, just make sure to pit and slice them thinly.
Mayonnaise (optional): Adds creaminess and helps flavors stick to the bread. If you avoid mayo, a brush of olive oil with extra garlic is a good replacement.
How Can I Make the Cheese Melt Perfectly Without Burning the Bread?
Getting melty cheese without burning the bread is key. Here’s how I do it:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)—hot enough to melt cheese but not too hot to burn bread quickly.
- Spread toppings evenly to avoid thick spots that don’t melt well.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes and keep an eye on the cheese. It should bubble and just start to turn golden.
- If bread browns too fast, cover lightly with foil during baking to protect it.
- Let it cool 1-2 minutes before slicing so cheese sets a bit, making it easier to cut.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for holding the bread while it crisps and the cheese melts evenly.
- Sharp bread knife – helps you slice the loaf cleanly without squashing it.
- Mixing bowl – to combine olives, garlic, and mayo or oil smoothly.
- Spatula or spoon – easy for spreading the olive mixture evenly over the bread.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet, tangy touch that brightens the flavors.
- Include red pepper flakes for a bit of heat when you want a spicy kick.
- Swap mozzarella with feta for a sharper, saltier cheese that pairs well with olives.
- Mix in fresh chopped basil or oregano for added herb aroma and freshness.
Easy Olive Cheese Bread Appetizer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of French or Italian bread (about 12 inches)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded provolone cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- ½ cup green olives, pitted and sliced
- ½ cup black olives, pitted and sliced
For the Flavor Mix:
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10-15 minutes to bake. So, in under 30 minutes, you’ll have a warm, cheesy olive bread appetizer ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Oven and Bread Ready:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Use a sharp knife to slice your loaf of bread in half lengthwise, creating two long halves. Lay them open on a baking sheet or wooden board.
2. Make the Flavorful Spread:
In a medium bowl, mix mayonnaise (if using), minced garlic, olive oil, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until combined well. This will add a wonderful flavor base to your bread.
3. Assemble Your Toppings:
Spread the garlic and olive oil mixture evenly over the cut sides of both bread halves. Then, scatter the sliced green and black olives right on top. Finally, sprinkle mozzarella and provolone cheeses all over, covering the bread nicely.
4. Bake Until Melty and Golden:
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, keeping an eye on the bread until the cheese melts fully and turns a delicious golden brown.
5. Cool and Serve:
Take the bread out of the oven and let it cool for about a minute so the cheese sets a little. Slice the bread into appetizer-sized pieces, serve warm, and enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness!
Can I Use Frozen Bread for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the bread completely at room temperature or in the fridge before assembling and baking. This will help it heat evenly and prevent sogginess.
Can I Substitute Different Cheeses?
Absolutely! Feel free to use cheeses like cheddar, fontina, or feta to switch up the flavor. Just keep in mind how well they melt, as some cheeses melt better than others.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with foil at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to refresh the crispness.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Definitely! You can add sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs like basil, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor and a bit of heat.
