Easy Olive Cheese Bread Appetizer is a simple and tasty snack that everyone will love. It features soft, warm bread loaded with melty cheese and salty olives that give just the right amount of flavor. The combination is perfect for sharing at a party or enjoying as a quick bite.
I always like making this appetizer when friends come over because it doesn’t take long to prepare, and the smell while it’s baking is amazing. The olives add a nice twist that makes the cheese bread feel a little special, but it’s still super easy to put together—even if you’re not an expert baker like me.
My favorite way to serve this bread is fresh from the oven, sliced into small pieces so everyone can grab a bite. It goes great with a simple salad or some fresh veggies on the side. Trust me, you’ll find yourself going back for just one more piece—it’s that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Use French or Italian bread for a crusty outside and soft inside. If you want a lighter option, try a baguette or ciabatta. Avoid sandwich bread as it won’t hold up as well.
Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and gives a creamy texture. You can swap with provolone or Monterey Jack if preferred. For a sharper taste, add some cheddar.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty and nutty flavor. Use Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano as alternatives. A little goes a long way in boosting flavor.
Olives: Black and green olives bring contrasting flavors—salty, briny, and slightly tangy. If you’re not a fan, substitute with roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes.
Garlic & Herbs: Fresh garlic and Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, thyme) brighten up the bread. If fresh parsley isn’t handy, dried parsley or fresh basil work nicely too.
How Can You Get the Cheese Bread Perfectly Melty and Golden?
Melting cheese evenly and getting golden edges are what make this bread so good! Here’s my simple approach:
- Spread softened butter mixed with garlic and herbs to add flavor and help golden the bread.
- Layer cheese evenly on the bread to cover the surface—don’t pile it up in one spot.
- Top with olives and herbs after the cheese so you get even baking and an eye-catching look.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes until cheese bubbles and edges turn golden.
- Watch closely at the end to avoid burning but let it get that crusty golden touch.
Once out of the oven, let the bread cool for a couple of minutes so the cheese sets slightly—this helps with easier slicing and less mess. Enjoy warm slices right away!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for holding the bread flat and catching any melted cheese that drips.
- Butter knife or small spatula – great for spreading the garlic butter evenly over the bread.
- Sharp knife – helps you cut the bread into neat appetizer-sized pieces.
- Mixing bowl – handy for combining the butter with garlic and Italian seasoning.
- Oven mitts – keep your hands safe when handling the hot baking sheet.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap mozzarella for cheddar and add cooked bacon for a smoky, cheesy touch great for game day.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Use feta cheese and kalamata olives for a stronger, Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
- Mix in fresh chopped herbs like basil or oregano for a fresh, vibrant taste.
How to Make Easy Olive Cheese Bread Appetizer?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread and Topping:
- 1 loaf of French bread or Italian bread, cut in half lengthwise
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mixed dried basil, oregano, thyme)
For the Cheese and Olive Layers:
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup black olives, sliced
- ½ cup green olives, chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (scallions)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 12-15 minutes to bake. In under 30 minutes total, you’ll have a warm, cheesy, olive-packed appetizer ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread Base:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the loaf of French or Italian bread in half lengthwise and place both halves on a baking sheet with the cut side facing up.
2. Make and Spread Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the minced garlic and dried Italian seasoning. Spread this garlic butter evenly over the cut sides of the bread. This will add flavor and help crisp the bread during baking.
3. Add Cheese and Olive Toppings:
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over both bread halves. Then, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the mozzarella. Distribute the sliced black olives and chopped green olives evenly over the cheese layers. Top with chopped green onions and fresh parsley. If you like a little heat, sprinkle on the crushed red pepper flakes. Season everything lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Bake and Serve:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese melts completely and bubbles, and the edges of the bread turn a nice golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing the bread into appetizer-sized pieces. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Bread for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen bread, but be sure to fully thaw it first at room temperature. This helps the bread bake evenly and prevents sogginess when adding the toppings.
Can I Substitute Other Cheeses?
Absolutely! Mozzarella works best for melting, but provolone, cheddar, or Monterey Jack are great alternatives. Feel free to mix in some feta for a tangy twist.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover olive cheese bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to refresh the crispiness.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the bread with all toppings, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, simply bake as directed, adding a couple extra minutes if the bread is cold.
