Name: Matt’s Olive Cheese Bread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-490078H6M33S
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 (14 ounce) ciabatta loaf, sliced in half lengthwise; 2 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature; ¼ cup mayonnaise; 1 to 2 tablespoons calabrian chili paste, depending on your spice preference; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded mozzarella cheese; ⅓ cup pitted Castelvetrano olives, roughly chopped; ⅓ cup pitted Kalamata olives, roughly chopped; ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley

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If you have a craving for something utterly delicious, comforting, and packed with bold flavors, you are going to love Matt’s Olive Cheese Bread Recipe. This sensational dish features a golden, crusty ciabatta loaf loaded with a creamy, spicy butter spread, a gooey blend of mozzarella and parmesan, and the wonderful punch of both castelvetrano and kalamata olives. Every bite is a delightful harmony of savory, spicy, and tangy, making it the perfect treat for sharing or sneaking bites all to yourself!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl sits in the center with two layers of soft, creamy white cheese swirled with a vibrant orange-red sauce, creating a marbled pattern with some black pepper sprinkled on top. A white spatula with a wooden handle rests inside the bowl. To the left, there are two pieces of crusty bread with a golden-brown crust and a light, airy inside. Above the bowl, there is a small white bowl filled with green and dark purple olives. To the right, fresh green parsley leaves spread partly out of the frame. Below, two bowls are placed side by side; one holds shredded mozzarella cheese in a white bowl, and the other contains finely grated pale yellow cheese in a light brown bowl. A bulb of garlic with white papery skin sits near the grated cheese bowls. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of Matt’s Olive Cheese Bread Recipe is in its simplicity and the star-quality of every ingredient. Each one plays a critical role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Ciabatta loaf: This crusty bread with an airy crumb soaks up the rich toppings perfectly without getting soggy.
Salted butter: Adds creamy richness and helps carry flavors between the bread and toppings.
Mayonnaise: Keeps the topping moist and smooth while adding a subtle tangy note.
Calabrian chili paste: Brings a slow-building heat and smoky depth to the spread; adjust to your spice love.
Garlic: Minced fresh for an aromatic and piquant boost.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully into a gorgeous, gooey layer.
Castelvetrano olives: Mild and buttery green olives that add a bright, fresh olive note.
Kalamata olives: Dark, briny olives that contribute a lovely contrast and savoriness.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for a salty, nutty finish that browns beautifully in the oven.
Parsley: Finely chopped and sprinkled on top for a fresh, herbaceous lift and pop of color.

How to Make Matt’s Olive Cheese Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Bread and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400ºF and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice the ciabatta loaf in half lengthwise and place the halves cut side-up on the baking sheet. This simple step ensures a crispy base that holds all those tasty toppings beautifully without becoming soggy or floppy.

Step 2: Mix the Flavor-Packed Spread

In a small bowl, combine the softened salted butter, mayonnaise, calabrian chili paste, minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything together using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon until you have a smooth, evenly combined spread. This mixture is the heart and soul of Matt’s Olive Cheese Bread Recipe, packing creamy, spicy, and aromatic notes into every bite.

Step 3: Build the Bread

Generously spread the butter mixture evenly across each ciabatta half, making sure to go right up to the edges so every corner is flavored. Next, sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the spread. Follow this with an even distribution of the chopped castelvetrano and kalamata olives, providing a dynamic briny contrast. Finally, grate fresh parmesan cheese over the top for that irresistible golden finish.

Step 4: Bake to Melty Perfection

Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on the cheese—it should melt fully and start turning a beautiful golden-brown. This melting and browning is what transforms the dish from good to unforgettable, creating a crisp-topped, gooey, olive-studded masterpiece.

Step 5: Slice and Garnish

After baking, transfer the bread to a cutting board and slice each half crosswise into six pieces, giving you 12 perfect servings. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top for a fresh touch of color and herbaceous brightness. Serve immediately so everyone can enjoy the bread warm, with melty cheese and bursting olive goodness.

How to Serve Matt’s Olive Cheese Bread Recipe

The image shows eight square pieces of focaccia bread pizza on a white plate with ridged edges. Each piece has a golden toasted crust base topped with an orange spread layer, melted white cheese, sliced black and green olives, and chopped green herbs scattered on top. The pieces are arranged closely but not perfectly aligned on the plate. Around the plate are some fresh green herbs scattered on a white marbled surface, with a small white bowl filled with mixed black and green olives on the upper left and a small white bowl with shredded cheese at the lower right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is a simple but stunning garnish that adds a fresh herbal brightness against the rich cheese and olives. For an added touch, a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can elevate the flavors even further.

Side Dishes

This olive cheese bread shines alongside salads with fresh greens and a sharp vinaigrette, or alongside a bowl of tomato soup for a cozy meal. It also pairs beautifully with an antipasto platter featuring cured meats, marinated vegetables, and more olives to echo the bread’s flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice up Matt’s Olive Cheese Bread Recipe as finger food for a party platter or as part of a mezze spread. You can also serve it with small bowls of extra olives and spreads for dipping. Feeling fancy? Tear it into chunks and serve alongside a creamy dip like tzatziki or a roasted red pepper hummus.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which might be tough!), wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator. The bread will keep well for 2 to 3 days but is best enjoyed warm and fresh to keep the cheese melty and the bread crispy.

Freezing

You can freeze Matt’s Olive Cheese Bread Recipe before baking by wrapping the prepared halves tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, bake straight from frozen, adding extra baking time until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Reheating

Reheat leftover or frozen bread slices in a preheated oven at 350ºF for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese has softened. Avoid the microwave—it can make the bread chewy and less appetizing.

FAQs

Can I use different types of olives in Matt’s Olive Cheese Bread Recipe?

Absolutely! While castelvetrano and kalamata olives give the recipe its signature flavor balance, feel free to experiment with green, black, or even stuffed olives to tailor it to your taste.

Is the calabrian chili paste very spicy?

Calabrian chili paste has a moderate heat level with a smoky, fruity flavor. You can adjust the amount from 1 to 2 tablespoons depending on how spicy you like your bread.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You sure can. Swap the ciabatta with your favorite gluten-free bread that can hold toppings well. Keep in mind texture differences but the flavor combination will remain just as delightful.

What kind of cheese works best in this recipe?

Fresh shredded mozzarella provides a lovely melt, while parmesan adds a savory, nutty edge. You can also try provolone or fontina as substitutes if desired.

Can I prepare the topping mixture in advance?

Yes! You can mix the butter, mayonnaise, chili paste, garlic, salt, and pepper up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. Bring it to room temperature before spreading on the bread for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

Matt’s Olive Cheese Bread Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together bold, fresh ingredients in a simple, fuss-free way. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a casual dinner, or just craving a snack that’s both indulgent and comforting, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. So go ahead and give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how such straightforward ingredients come together to create something so spectacular!