Easy Olive Cheese Bread Appetizer is a simple, tasty treat that everyone loves. It’s packed with the salty goodness of olives and the melty, gooey comfort of cheese all baked into a warm, crusty bread. This appetizer is quick to throw together and makes any gathering a little more special.
I love making this when friends drop by because it fills the kitchen with an amazing aroma and always gets everyone talking. The combination of olives and cheese is a classic, but what I really like is how easy it is to customize. You can add your favorite herbs or try different types of cheese to give it your own twist.
My favorite way to serve this is warm, right out of the oven, alongside a bowl of fresh tomato soup or a simple green salad. It’s perfect for sharing and pairs well with just about any drink. When you’re looking for something fuss-free but still super tasty, this olive cheese bread appetizer has got you covered!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: I like using crusty Italian or French bread because it holds up well and gets nice and toasty. If you want softer bread, try a baguette or sourdough loaf instead.
Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully and gives that stretchy texture. Parmesan adds a sharp flavor. If you prefer, swap Parmesan for Pecorino or Asiago cheese for a slightly different taste.
Olives: Black and green olives bring salty, briny flavor that makes this appetizer pop. If you’re not a fan of olives, chopped roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes work well too.
Mayonnaise or Cream Cheese: This is optional but adds creaminess that blends everything nicely. You can skip it for a lighter dish or use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Herbs and Aromatics: Fresh parsley and green onions brighten the flavors. Feel free to add a bit of dried oregano or basil for extra aroma.
How Can I Get the Cheese Perfectly Melted and Bread Crispy?
Baking this bread just right is key to success! Here’s how I do it:
- Preheat your oven so it’s hot and ready; 375°F is perfect for melting cheese without burning the bread.
- Lightly brush the bread with olive oil. This helps the edges crisp up and prevents it from drying out.
- Spread the cheese evenly for consistent melting across the bread.
- Bake for about 12-15 minutes but watch closely near the end. You want bubbly, golden cheese and just-toasted edges.
- If you want extra crispiness on top, switch to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, but don’t leave it unattended!
Following these tips gives you a perfect balance of warm, gooey cheese and crunchy bread every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – a simple, flat surface to hold the bread while it bakes evenly.
- Sharp bread knife – for clean, even slices without squishing the bread.
- Mixing bowl – to easily combine the cheeses, olives, and seasonings.
- Spoon or spatula – helps spread the cheese mixture evenly on the bread.
- Brush (optional) – for coating the bread with olive oil to get a crispy crust.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap mozzarella for cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a sharper or spicier flavor kick.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet, tangy contrast to the olives and cheese.
- Include cooked crumbled sausage or bacon bits to turn it into a heartier appetizer.
- Mix in fresh herbs like basil or thyme to add a fresh, aromatic note that pairs well with the olives.
How to Make Easy Olive Cheese Bread Appetizer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of crusty bread (such as Italian or French bread)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup black olives, sliced
- ½ cup green olives, sliced
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or cream cheese (optional, for creaminess)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake, so around 25 minutes total until you have a warm, cheesy appetizer ready to serve.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Bread:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice your loaf of crusty bread in half horizontally so you have two flat halves to work with.
2. Mix the Toppings:
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, mayonnaise or cream cheese (if you want it extra creamy), sliced black and green olives, chopped parsley, and sliced green onions. Stir everything together, then season with salt and pepper to your taste.
3. Add Olive Oil and Spread the Mixture:
Lightly brush the cut sides of your bread with olive oil. This helps the bread get nicely toasted in the oven. Then evenly spread your cheese and olive mixture over the bread halves.
4. Bake and Serve:
Place the topped bread halves on a baking sheet and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the bread edges are toasted. Take it out of the oven and sprinkle some extra chopped parsley on top if you like. Slice into pieces and serve warm.
Can I Use Frozen Bread for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen bread if thawed completely first. Let it defrost at room temperature or overnight in the fridge to ensure it bakes evenly and crisps up nicely.
Can I Substitute the Olives?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of olives, try adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even artichoke hearts for a different but delicious flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil. Keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to bring back the crispiness.
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the bread with the cheese and olive mixture, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. Add a couple extra minutes to baking time if it’s chilled.
