Name: Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 16 oz cream cheese (500g, softened); ⅓ cup sour cream; ½ tsp thyme (or 1 tsp Italian seasoning as an alternative); ½ tsp oregano; ½ tsp basil; ½ tsp rosemary; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp red pepper flakes (or chili flakes, adjust to taste); 2 cups cheddar cheese (or other cheese, freshly grated); 6 oz salami (180g, finely chopped); 9 oz roasted peppers (280g, drained and finely chopped); ¾ cup green olives (finely chopped); ⅓ cup green onion (finely minced, about 3 – 4 stalks); 7 oz sun-dried tomato strips with oil (220g, roughly chopped); ¼ cup flat-leaf parsley (finely chopped or chives); Rosemary sprigs (for decoration); Ritz, Triscuits, or other snack crackers

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 9 reviews

If you love irresistible appetizers that bring a burst of flavor to any gathering, the Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe is an absolute must-try. This creamy, savory delight combines the richness of cream cheese with the vibrant tastes of roasted peppers, salami, sun-dried tomatoes, and a well-balanced blend of herbs and spices. Perfectly textured and beautifully presented, it’s sure to become your go-to crowd-pleaser for parties, potlucks, or cozy nights in with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface filled with colorful ingredients separated in sections. Starting from the top left, there is a bright green layer of chopped scallions, next to it on the top right is a pale yellow shredded cheese layer. Below the cheese is a mix of finely chopped green olives with orange pimentos. To the bottom right, there is a mix of dried herbs and spices with a creamy white base underneath. The bottom center shows bright red diced tomatoes, and to the bottom left is a pinkish diced meat. The overall look is fresh and vibrant, with each ingredient clearly visible and contrasting in color, arranged around the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating contrasting textures and layering flavors—from the creamy base to the hearty, tangy additions that make every bite exciting.

16 oz cream cheese (softened): The creamy foundation that holds everything together with smooth richness.
⅓ cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and extra creaminess for a luscious texture.
½ tsp thyme: Offers earthy warmth; or swap for 1 tsp Italian seasoning to simplify.
½ tsp oregano: Provides classic Italian herbal notes unique to this appetizer.
½ tsp basil: Brings a fresh, slightly sweet aroma to balance the savory elements.
½ tsp rosemary: Adds woodsy depth and a hint of pine-like fragrance.
½ tsp black pepper: Gives subtle heat and a touch of sharpness.
1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses mouthwatering, robust flavor.
1 tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the log.
1 tsp red pepper (or chili flakes): For a gentle kick that wakes up the palette.
2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, sharp tanginess and melty texture.
9 oz roasted peppers (drained and finely chopped): Juicy sweetness and smoky undertones.
6 oz salami (finely chopped): Brings savory meatiness and Italian authenticity.
¾ cup green olives (finely chopped): Offers briny bite and complexity.
⅓ cup green onion (finely minced): Provides fresh, crisp onion flavor.
7 oz sun-dried tomato strips with oil (roughly chopped): Intense sweetness and richness enhanced by the oil.
¼ cup flat-leaf parsley (finely chopped): Brightens the dish with herbal freshness.
Rosemary sprigs (decoration): For a visually stunning, fragrant garnish.
Ritz, Triscuits, or other snack crackers: Perfect for scooping and pairing with the log.

How to Make Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Start by spraying a loaf pan with a non-stick oil spray to make sure your cheese log releases easily. Then line the pan with cling wrap, allowing extra overhang on the sides—it’ll make it so much easier to lift the log out later without any mess.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Add in the herbs (thyme, oregano, basil, rosemary), black pepper, garlic powder, salt, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to blend these aromatics thoroughly before folding in the cheddar cheese, roasted peppers, salami, green olives, green onion, sun-dried tomatoes, and parsley. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, keeping in mind the saltiness of your crackers when serving.

Step 3: Shape and Chill

Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing out the top and pressing firmly to eliminate air pockets. Using a smaller pan will result in a taller, more compact log if you want a bolder presentation. Cover tightly with the cling wrap overhang, then pop it into the fridge for at least four hours, or up to a week for best flavor melding and firm texture.

Step 4: Unmold and Garnish

When ready to serve, gently turn the loaf out onto a platter and peel off the cling wrap. Scatter the reserved sun-dried tomato pieces on top, drizzling the flavorful oil from the tomato container over the log for extra richness. Finally, decorate with bright parsley and a few rosemary sprigs to give your antipasto cream cheese log that festive, inviting look.

How to Serve Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe

The dish shows a white oval plate with a large mound of creamy cheese mixed with small pieces of red and green vegetables. On top, there is a thick layer of dark red sun-dried tomatoes and a few green herb sprigs for garnish. To the right, there is a small scoop of the cheese mixture placed on round crackers. In the background, round white flatbreads and small breadsticks rest on the white marbled surface. The cheese looks soft with a smooth texture and the overall image is bright and inviting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley and rosemary sprigs are the classic finishing touch, but you can also add a sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes for a little spice or a dash of cracked black pepper for contrast. These garnishes not only elevate the visual appeal but also contribute subtle aromas that awaken the senses.

Side Dishes

This Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe pairs wonderfully with an assortment of crackers, especially buttery Ritz or hearty Triscuits. You can also offer sliced baguette, crunchy breadsticks, or even crisp vegetable sticks like celery and cucumber to balance out the richness with fresh crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the log into rounds to create elegant finger foods or spreading it within pita pockets for a delightful handheld snack. Alternatively, place the entire log on a wooden board surrounded by cured meats, marinated artichokes, and pickled vegetables for a gorgeous antipasto platter that’s perfect for entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe tightly in cling wrap or place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to a week, during which the flavors continue to develop and intensify.

Freezing

While this recipe tastes best fresh or chilled, you can freeze the log if necessary. Wrap it securely in plastic and then in foil to protect against freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving and give it a good stir to restore its creamy texture.

Reheating

Because the antipasto cream cheese log is meant to be served chilled or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended. Instead, simply let it sit out for about 20 minutes after removing it from the fridge to soften and bring out the full depth of flavors.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! Cheddar is traditional here for its sharpness, but feel free to substitute with mozzarella for a milder flavor or even Pepper Jack for a spicier kick. Just ensure the cheese is freshly grated for the best texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

You can easily omit the salami and add plumper olives or even marinated artichoke hearts to keep the dish hearty and flavorful while accommodating a vegetarian diet.

How far in advance can I prepare this log?

This recipe actually gets better with time. You can make it up to a week in advance and keep it refrigerated. The flavors meld beautifully, making it even tastier when served a day or two later.

What’s the best way to slice and serve the log?

Use a sharp knife to slice the log into rounds or wedges to maintain its shape. Serving it slightly softened at room temperature makes spreading easier if using crackers or bread.

Can I add other antipasto ingredients to the log?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding chopped pepperoncini, capers, or even some chopped artichoke hearts to customize the flavor profile to your liking.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe is one of those special dishes that effortlessly combines simplicity with incredible flavor. Whether you’re entertaining friends or simply craving a comforting snack, this recipe promises to impress every time. Give it a try—you may just find a new favorite appetizer that everyone will be asking for again and again!