Name: Olive Cheese Bread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491489H16M7S
Total time: PT-491489H16M7S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 oz. full fat sour cream; 4 tablespoons softened butter; 8 oz. shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; Kosher salt, to taste; Fresh cracked pepper, to taste; 7 oz. green olives, drained and sliced; 6 oz. black olives, drained and sliced; 8-10 oz. loaf French bread; Fresh parsley (optional)

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If you love the irresistible blend of tangy olives, melty cheese, and crusty bread, then you are in for a real treat with this Olive Cheese Bread Recipe. It’s the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and vibrant flavors baked right into a golden French bread crust. Whether it’s a cozy snack, a party appetizer, or a delightful side, this recipe brings so much joy and satisfaction with every bite. I can’t wait to share all the tips and tricks to help you make this flavorful bread your new go-to favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl filled with two main layers: a large pile of shredded pale yellow cheese covers most of the bowl, and a smaller heap of chopped green onions sits on the right side, partially mixed into the cheese. A silver spoon with a decorative handle rests inside the bowl, touching the green onions. To the left of the bowl, there is a small white bowl with green olives stuffed with red peppers, and above that is a long, crusty baguette. To the right of the cheese bowl, a small white bowl holds black olive slices, sitting on a textured wooden board. All items are placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Olive Cheese Bread Recipe comes from a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that come together beautifully. Each component plays a crucial role, from the creamy tang of sour cream to the savory punch of olives, and of course, the ooey-gooey melted Monterey Jack cheese that ties it all together.

Full fat sour cream: adds a smooth, tangy richness that keeps the bread moist and flavorful.
Softened butter: brings a creamy texture and helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
Green olives, drained and sliced: offer a bright, slightly salty contrast that adds depth.
Black olives, drained and sliced: lend a richer, earthier olive flavor to balance the green ones.
Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: melts perfectly to create that luscious gooey layer you’ll love.
Thinly sliced green onions: add a fresh, mild sharpness and lovely color contrast.
Garlic powder: infuses subtle warmth and savory aroma without overpowering the other flavors.
Loaf French bread: provides a sturdy, crispy base that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
Kosher salt: enhances all the ingredients and balances the flavors perfectly.
Fresh cracked pepper: adds just a little bite and depth to every mouthful.

How to Make Olive Cheese Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This moderate temperature will ensure your Olive Cheese Bread bakes evenly, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly and the bread to toast just right without burning.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a medium bowl, combine the full fat sour cream, softened butter, garlic powder, and a generous pinch of kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper. Stir these ingredients until the mixture becomes mostly smooth. This creamy base is what will bind all the flavors together and give your spread a luscious texture.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Green Onions

Next, stir in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese along with the thinly sliced green onions. This combination is essential because the cheese provides that melty, flavorful richness, while the green onions add a fresh bite and vibrant color.

Step 4: Fold in the Olives

Slowly fold in both the green and black olives into the cheese mixture. The olives bring a wonderful briny, savory contrast that makes this bread so distinctive and satisfying. Be sure they’re evenly distributed for every bite to have that delightful olive presence.

Step 5: Prepare the Bread

Slice your French bread loaf first in half widthwise, then each half in half lengthwise so you have four manageable pieces. This creates perfect surfaces for spreading your flavorful mixture and ensures even toasting.

Step 6: Spread the Mixture

Divide the olive cheese mixture evenly among the four pieces, spreading it out in an even layer on the cut sides of the bread. Don’t skimp here; the generous layer of filling is what makes the bread truly irresistible.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the prepared bread slices on a baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll notice the cheese melting into a bubbly, creamy layer and the bread edges starting to turn a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 8: Broil for a Crispy Finish

For that extra special touch, switch your oven to broil and broil the bread for 1 to 2 minutes. Watch closely as the cheese develops a dark golden crust—this adds a wonderful texture and deep flavor that elevates the whole dish.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, slice your Olive Cheese Bread into smaller pieces, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness, and get ready to enjoy your masterpiece!

How to Serve Olive Cheese Bread Recipe

The image shows a tray with several slices of flatbread topped with a thick layer of melted white cheese. On top of the cheese are evenly spread black and green olive slices. The flatbread pieces have a golden-brown crust with some areas slightly toasted. Bright green chopped parsley is sprinkled over the flatbread, adding small pops of color. A small white bowl sits in the top right corner filled with more fresh green parsley. The tray rests on a white marbled surface, and a striped cloth is seen at the bottom left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or chives are fantastic for garnishing this Olive Cheese Bread Recipe. They add a bright, fresh contrast to the rich, melty cheese and olives while making your dish look stunning and inviting.

Side Dishes

This Olive Cheese Bread shines as a side with hearty soups, like tomato basil or creamy potato leek, because its robust flavors complement and elevate simple dishes. It’s also a great accompaniment to salads or charcuterie boards for a well-rounded meal or snack.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, consider slicing the bread into bite-sized pieces and arranging them on a platter with a few dipping sauces like marinara, roasted red pepper hummus, or a tangy yogurt dip. You could also serve the bread alongside olives and pickled vegetables for an irresistible Mediterranean-inspired spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, wrap the Olive Cheese Bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 2 to 3 days while maintaining the flavors and texture nicely.

Freezing

You can freeze this bread by wrapping individual slices in foil and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to one month. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to keep the flavors intact.

Reheating

To reheat, place the bread on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crisp on the edges. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy instead of crispy.

FAQs

Can I use different types of olives in this recipe?

Absolutely! This Olive Cheese Bread Recipe is versatile, and you can swap in Kalamata olives, stuffed olives, or even a mix of your favorites to suit your taste preferences.

Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free baguette or loaf, though the texture may differ slightly. Just make sure the bread can hold the toppings well and toast up nicely in the oven.

Can I make the mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the olive cheese mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature and give it a quick stir before spreading it on the bread to bake.

What cheese can I substitute if I don’t have Monterey Jack?

Cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or mild cheddar work wonderfully as substitutes. Choose a cheese that melts well and has a mild, creamy flavor to keep the spirit of the recipe.

How do I make this recipe less salty?

To reduce saltiness, rinse the olives lightly before adding them and adjust the added kosher salt accordingly. Using low-sodium or unsalted butter can also help control the salt level.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Cheese Bread Recipe is truly one of those special dishes that bring people together, combining simple ingredients with incredible flavor. It’s easy to make, comforting, and endlessly versatile. I hope you give it a try soon and find it as delicious and satisfying as I do—trust me, every bite feels like a warm, flavorful hug!