Easy Olive Cheese Bread Appetizer is a simple, tasty treat that brings together the salty punch of olives and the gooey goodness of melted cheese all baked into crusty bread. It’s a perfect mix of flavors and textures that everyone seems to love, from the crispy edges to the soft, cheesy center.
I have to say, I always enjoy how quick and fuss-free this appetizer is to put together, especially when guests pop in unexpectedly. I like to use a mix of black and green olives for a little variety and toss in some herbs for a fresh boost. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but really just takes minutes and a few simple ingredients.
My favorite way to serve this bread is warm, fresh from the oven, alongside a big bowl of mixed greens or a light tomato salad. I find that the warm, melty cheese paired with the salty olives makes it such a crowd-pleaser at parties or family dinners. Plus, it’s great for sharing and nibbling while chatting, making every gathering feel cozy and welcoming.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: A crusty baguette or Italian loaf works best for that crisp outside and soft inside. If you want, ciabatta or French bread can be good substitutes. Just pick a loaf that holds toppings well.
Olives: I like using a mix of black and green olives for balanced saltiness and flavor. If you’re not a fan of olives, chopped roasted red peppers make a tasty alternative.
Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully and adds a creamy touch. You can swap it with provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a mild cheddar for a different flavor.
Butter and Garlic: These build the base flavor in the spread. You could use olive oil instead of butter if you prefer a lighter fat or dairy-free option.
How Do I Get the Cheese Melty and the Bread Crisp Without Burning?
To get the cheese nicely melted and the bread perfectly crisp, baking time and temperature are key. Here’s how I do it:
- Preheat your oven to a moderate 375°F (190°C). This gives the cheese time to melt before the bread gets too dark.
- Place the bread halves on a baking sheet to keep things even and easy to handle.
- Bake for about 12–15 minutes. Keep an eye toward the end to avoid burning.
- If you want a crispier top, switch to broil for the last 1–2 minutes, but watch closely—it burns fast!
This method creates that perfect balance of gooey cheese and a crunchy crust. Remember, letting the bread cool slightly before slicing helps it hold together nicely.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for holding the bread and catching drips while baking.
- Sharp knife – makes slicing the bread evenly easy and safe.
- Mixing bowl – helps you combine the butter, garlic, olives, and herbs smoothly.
- Spoon or spatula – great for spreading the olive butter mixture evenly on the bread.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap mozzarella for pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick that livens up the bread.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet, tangy contrast to the olives.
- Mix in cooked crumbled sausage or bacon for a meaty, smoky twist on the appetizer.
- Sprinkle some fresh basil or thyme instead of parsley for a different herbal note.
Easy Olive Cheese Bread Appetizer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Bread and Toppings:
- 1 baguette or Italian bread loaf
- 1 cup mixed olives (black and green), pitted and chopped
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Flavor Base:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes just about 5-10 minutes to prep and roughly 12-15 minutes to bake, making it a quick and easy appetizer to throw together whenever you need a delicious crowd-pleaser.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Bread:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, using a sharp knife, carefully slice your bread loaf lengthwise into two halves.
2. Make the Olive Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with minced garlic, chopped olives, fresh parsley, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes if using, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to create your flavorful spread.
3. Assemble the Bread:
Spread the olive butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread halves. Then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top of each half, making sure to cover evenly.
4. Bake the Bread:
Place the prepared bread halves on a baking sheet and bake in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has a light golden color.
5. Serve Warm:
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool just a bit. Then slice it into strips or pieces as shown in the image. Garnish with extra fresh parsley if you like, and serve warm.
Can I Use Frozen Bread for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh bread for this appetizer to ensure crispiness. If you only have frozen bread, thaw it completely in the fridge or at room temperature before assembling and baking.
Can I Substitute the Mozzarella Cheese?
Absolutely! Provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a mild cheddar work well as alternatives and will give the bread a slightly different flavor.
How Should 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 briefly in the oven to crisp it back up before serving.
Can I Add Other Toppings to This Appetizer?
Definitely! Consider adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooked bacon bits, or fresh herbs like basil or thyme for extra flavor variations.
