Cheesy Olive Bread Sticks are a rich and savory appetizer featuring crispy French bread topped with a creamy, cheesy olive mixture. With gooey mozzarella, sharp Parmesan, and the briny bite of green and black olives, this warm and melty bread is perfect for sharing at parties, gatherings, or as a flavorful side dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold and Savory – The combination of olives, cheese, and garlic creates an irresistible flavor.
- Perfect for Entertaining – Easy to prepare and ideal for parties or casual gatherings.
- Crispy and Cheesy – A crunchy bread base with a bubbly, melty cheese topping.
- Customizable – Adjust the spice level or swap ingredients for your preferences.
- Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- French bread (sliced in half lengthwise)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Shredded Parmesan cheese
- Mayonnaise
- Unsalted butter (softened)
- Green olives (sliced)
- Black olives (sliced)
- Green onions (chopped)
- Garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Make the Cheese Mixture:
- In a bowl, mix together mozzarella, Parmesan, mayonnaise, softened butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes until well combined.
- Fold in the sliced green olives, black olives, and chopped green onions.
Assemble the Bread:
- Spread the cheese and olive mixture evenly over the cut sides of the French bread.
Bake the Bread:
- Place the bread halves on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
- Slice into breadsticks and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 10-12 breadsticks
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Total Time: 25-28 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick – Increase the red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Extra Cheesy – Mix in cheddar, gouda, or provolone for a richer cheese blend.
- Mediterranean Twist – Add sun-dried tomatoes and a sprinkle of feta cheese.
- Herb Infusion – Add fresh basil, thyme, or oregano for a more fragrant topping.
- Garlic Lovers – Spread roasted garlic over the bread before adding the cheese mixture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until crisp and bubbly.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the cheese mixture may become watery when thawed.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes! Baguettes, ciabatta, or sourdough all work well for this recipe.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and assemble the bread, then refrigerate until ready to bake.
Can I use black olives only?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder olive flavor, use just black olives.
How can I make this bread crispier?
Bake directly on the oven rack for extra crispiness.
What dips pair well with this bread?
Serve with marinara sauce, garlic butter, or a creamy ranch dip.
Can I make this without mayonnaise?
Yes, substitute with sour cream or cream cheese for a different texture.
What pairs well with these cheesy breadsticks?
They go great with soups, salads, pasta dishes, or as a snack on their own.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes! Crispy bacon or crumbled sausage makes a great addition.
How do I prevent the bread from getting too soggy?
Don’t overload the bread with too much cheese mixture—spread an even layer.
Can I grill this bread instead of baking it?
Yes, grill over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted.
Conclusion
Cheesy Olive Bread Sticks are a delicious, crowd-pleasing appetizer with a bold and briny olive flavor, gooey melted cheese, and a crispy bread base. Whether served at a party or as a side dish for dinner, these breadsticks are an easy, flavorful treat that everyone will love. Serve warm and enjoy!
