Name: Matt’s Olive Cheese Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
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, for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 12 reviews

If you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer that delivers a perfect balance of salty, savory, and just the right amount of heat, then look no further than Matt’s Olive Cheese Bread Recipe. Featuring two types of olives and a melty blend of cheeses, this recipe takes your average garlic bread to new heights. It’s quick to prepare, bakes in just 15 minutes, and the crispy, golden crust combined with the flavorful topping makes it utterly addictive. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual dinner, this bread will disappear fast once it hits the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

In a white bowl, there is a creamy white layer of yogurt or cheese base swirled with a bright orange-red chili oil sauce creating a marbled effect in the center. A white spoon with a wooden handle rests inside the bowl, partly covered in the creamy mixture. Surrounding the bowl on a white marbled surface are fresh green parsley leaves, a small bowl of mixed green and black olives, a wooden bowl filled with shredded cheese, a gray bowl with more white shredded cheese, a head of garlic, and slices of crusty rustic bread with a golden brown crust. The scene is bright and fresh, showing a mix of textures and colors that highlight the food ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for Matt’s Olive Cheese Bread Recipe are simple but thoughtfully chosen, each one playing a critical role in achieving that irresistible flavor and texture. From the creamy butter and tangy mayonnaise to the kick of Calabrian chili paste, these essentials come together to create a bread bursting with personality and flair.

Ciabatta loaf (14 ounces): The perfect crusty base with a soft inside that soaks up all the flavors.
Salted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds rich creaminess and helps meld the flavors.
Mayonnaise (¼ cup): Contributes moisture and a subtle tang for depth.
Calabrian chili paste (1 to 2 tablespoons): Injects a beautiful spicy heat, adjustable to your taste.
Garlic cloves, minced (2): The classic bold flavor that makes garlic bread irresistible.
Mozzarella cheese, shredded (1 cup): Melts into gooey deliciousness that blankets the bread.
Kosher salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances all flavors perfectly.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and depth.
Pitted Castelvetrano olives (⅓ cup, roughly chopped): Brings buttery, fresh notes with a mild brininess.
Pitted Kalamata olives (⅓ cup, roughly chopped): Offers a bold, fruity saltiness that balances the dish.
Parmesan cheese, freshly grated (¼ cup): Adds a nutty, sharp finish on top.
Fresh parsley, finely chopped (1 tablespoon): For a fresh, vibrant garnish that lifts the flavors.

How to Make Matt’s Olive Cheese Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Bread

Preheat your oven to a toasty 400ºF and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Slice your ciabatta loaf lengthwise, placing the halves cut side up—it’s essential to have that crisp, exposed bread surface ready to soak up all the flavorful toppings.

Step 2: Make the Flavorful Butter Spread

In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened salted butter, mayonnaise, Calabrian chili paste (adjust the heat to your liking), minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Use a rubber spatula or wooden spoon to blend these ingredients until smooth and well integrated. This luscious mixture will be the foundation of the bread’s irresistible flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Bread

Generously spread the butter mixture evenly over both halves of the ciabatta, making sure you reach all the edges for maximum flavor in every bite. Layer on the shredded mozzarella cheese for that gooey, melty goodness. Scatter the chopped Castelvetrano and Kalamata olives evenly over the cheese, then grate fresh Parmesan cheese on top to add a sharp, savory final touch.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the prepared bread halves onto your lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and just beginning to turn golden brown. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect balance between a crispy crust and tender, cheesy topping.

Step 5: Slice and Garnish

Remove the bread from the oven and carefully transfer it onto a cutting board. Slice each half crosswise into six pieces, giving you a total of 12 perfectly sized servings. Sprinkle with finely chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor, then serve immediately while it’s hot and melty.

How to Serve Matt’s Olive Cheese Bread Recipe

A white plate holds eight square slices of toasted bread pizza arranged in a casual pile. Each slice has a golden-brown crust with a textured, slightly rough surface. The pizza is topped with an orange spread base, a layer of melted white cheese that covers most of the bread evenly, and scattered black and green olive pieces that add color contrast. Small green herb leaves are sprinkled on top and around the plate, enhancing freshness. In the background, there is a small white bowl with mixed olives and another white bowl containing shredded cheese, all placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley is all you need to brighten up this rich and indulgent bread. For an extra touch, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a few extra olives on top can elevate the presentation and flavor wonderfully. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano also complement the olive and cheese flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This olive cheese bread pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad, a bowl of tangy tomato soup, or even a charcuterie board loaded with cured meats, cheeses, and pickles. It’s versatile enough to complement a casual meal or stand out as the star appetizer at a dinner party.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Matt’s Olive Cheese Bread Recipe on a wooden board surrounded by bowls of dipping olive oil infused with herbs or balsamic vinegar. You can also add slices with toothpicks as finger food for cocktail parties, or turn leftovers into an exciting base for bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes and basil.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To maintain the crust’s crunchiness, avoid refrigeration if possible.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the baked bread tightly in foil and place it inside a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature before reheating to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftover bread in a preheated oven at 350ºF for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese starts to melt again. This helps restore the crispy edges and melty topping better than the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely! While ciabatta is ideal for its texture and crumb, you can use any crusty bread like baguette or sourdough. Just make sure it’s sliced lengthwise to hold the toppings well.

How spicy is this bread with Calabrian chili paste?

The spice level is adjustable — 1 tablespoon gives a mild kick, while 2 tablespoons deliver a brighter heat. You can also omit the chili paste if you prefer no spice at all.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use vegan butter, dairy-free mayonnaise, and your favorite plant-based cheese alternatives to enjoy this recipe while keeping it dairy-free.

What olives work best in this recipe?

Castelvetrano and Kalamata olives offer a fantastic balance of buttery smoothness and tangy richness. However, feel free to experiment with other olives you love or have on hand.

Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?

You can prepare the butter mixture and chop the olives a few hours ahead, but it’s best to assemble and bake the bread just before serving to keep it fresh and crispy.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Matt’s Olive Cheese Bread Recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a warm, inviting treat for any occasion. It’s quick, flavorful, and guaranteed to satisfy salty, cheesy cravings all at once. I can’t wait for you to try this at home and see how quickly it becomes a favorite among your family and friends!