Olive Cheese Bread Recipe

Name: Olive Cheese Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 10
Ingredients: 1 loaf French bread, sliced in half lengthwise; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce; 1-1/2 tablespoons sriracha sauce; 8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded; 1 cup drained sliced black olives; 1 cup drained sliced pimento-stuffed green olives; 2 green onions, sliced; chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

1 loaf French bread, halved horizontally
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
1 cup drained sliced black olives
1 cup drained sliced pimento-stuffed green olives
2 green onions, sliced
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350F (180C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Using a spoon, scoop out a small portion from the cut side of each bread half to create a shallow well. Arrange the bread halves on the prepared baking sheet.
In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, softened butter, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha sauce. Mix well until smooth.
Fold in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese, sliced black olives, sliced pimento-stuffed green olives, and sliced green onions. Stir until the mixture is evenly combined.
Spread the olive and cheese mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread halves, making sure the filling is well distributed.
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and begins to brown.
Remove from the oven and let the bread cool for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to firm up slightly.
Optionally, sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish.
Slice each bread half into 2-inch portions and serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	412
Total Fat	29g
Saturated Fat	12g
Cholesterol	49mg
Sodium	850mg
Total Carbohydrate	29g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Total Sugars	5g
Protein	11g
Vitamin C	2mg
Calcium	218mg
Iron	3mg
Potassium	106mg

Recipe Author: Pat Bernitt

History of Olive Cheese Bread

Olive Cheese Bread, a delightful combination of cheesy goodness and briny olives, has roots in American cuisine, particularly as a popular appetizer or side dish. Its origins are somewhat elusive, but its believed to have been created in the 1980s, a period marked by an explosion of fusion dishes. As Americans started experimenting with more diverse flavors, they began adding Mediterranean ingredients like olives to traditional bread-based appetizers. The dishs easy preparation and rich flavor profile quickly made it a crowd favorite, especially in social settings.

Regional Variations

While Olive Cheese Bread is loved across the United States, its particularly popular in the South and on the West Coast. Some regional variations include the addition of herbs like basil or oregano, while others feature different types of cheese, such as cheddar or a blend of Monterey Jack and mozzarella. In certain areas, you might find it served with additional toppings like diced tomatoes or even bacon, which enhances the flavor with a savory richness.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

At first glance, Olive Cheese Bread may seem similar to other cheesy bread recipes, but its distinctive use of olives and a spicy-sweet chili sauce sets it apart. Unlike the more common garlic bread, which relies on butter and garlic for flavor, Olive Cheese Bread incorporates the tangy, briny bite of olives along with the smooth, creamy texture of mayonnaise and butter. The addition of Thai sweet chili sauce and sriracha creates a balanced heat, making this dish more dynamic and flavorful than traditional cheesy bread varieties.

Where Its Usually Served

Olive Cheese Bread is often served as an appetizer or a side dish at parties, gatherings, or family dinners. Its hearty yet shareable nature makes it perfect for buffets or potlucks. Youll also find it on the menu at casual American restaurants, especially those specializing in comfort foods or Mediterranean-inspired fare. Due to its unique flavor combination, its a great choice for those looking to impress guests with something a little different yet universally appealing.

Fun Facts About Olive Cheese Bread

Olive Cheese Bread is sometimes called crack bread due to its addictive flavor.
In addition to being a popular appetizer, it can also serve as a fun and filling snack for game day or movie nights.
The recipe has a surprisingly long shelf life when stored properly, making it a great make-ahead dish for busy weekends.
Though olives are a key ingredient, this dish can be easily customized by using different types of olives, such as Kalamata or green olives.

Conclusion

Olive Cheese Bread is an innovative and flavorful dish that beautifully blends cheesy richness with the tang of olives and a touch of heat. Its simple yet satisfying nature makes it a favorite at casual gatherings, and with its regional adaptations, you can try different versions to suit your taste. Whether youre serving it as an appetizer or a side dish, Olive Cheese Bread is guaranteed to be a hit with friends and family alike.

FAQ about Olive Cheese Bread Recipe

Olive Cheese Bread is best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven for a few minutes to bring back its crispy texture.

Yes, you can prepare the olive cheese mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, spread the mixture onto the bread and bake as instructed. Alternatively, you can assemble the bread and refrigerate it before baking. Just ensure that it is baked within 24 hours for the best results.

Yes, you can substitute some ingredients. For example, you can use a different type of cheese, like cheddar or gouda, instead of Monterey Jack. If you don't have Thai sweet chili sauce, you can use a mixture of honey and chili sauce as a substitute. If you're sensitive to spice, you can reduce or eliminate the sriracha sauce.

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as long as you use vegetarian-friendly mayonnaise and check that the cheeses are made without animal rennet. However, it is not vegan because it contains mayonnaise, butter, and cheese.

While Olive Cheese Bread is best enjoyed warm or at room temperature to get the full flavor and texture, it can be eaten cold. If you have leftovers, simply reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore the melted cheese and crispy bread.

Olive Cheese Bread makes a great appetizer or side dish. You can serve it with a fresh salad, soup, or even as part of a charcuterie board. It pairs well with both red and white wines, making it a versatile choice for gatherings.

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free bread instead of regular French bread. Be sure to check the labels of all other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free, such as mayonnaise and sauces.

Bake Olive Cheese Bread in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the cheese has melted and started to brown. If you prefer a crispier texture, you can bake it for a few extra minutes, but be careful not to burn the bread.