Cheesy Baked Olive Dip

This Cheesy Baked Olive Dip is a fantastic choice for any gathering! With its creamy texture and bold olive flavor, it’s sure to be a hit with your friends and family. This versatile appetizer can easily be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for parties, game nights, or casual get-togethers. Plus, it requires just 30 minutes from prep to table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dip is perfect for last-minute cravings or unexpected guests.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The rich flavors of cream cheese and olives create a delightful combination that everyone will enjoy.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it up to five days in advance and simply bake when you’re ready to serve.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with sliced bread, crackers, or fresh veggies for a variety of serving options.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite cheeses or olives to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish (9×9)
• Measuring cups
• Spatula
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all the ingredients easily without spilling.
• Baking dish: A 9×9 baking dish is perfect for even cooking and browning of the dip.
• Spatula: Use a spatula for folding ingredients gently, ensuring the olives are evenly distributed.

Ingredients

To create this flavorful Cheesy Baked Olive Dip, you will need:

• 8 oz. full fat sour cream, room temperature
• 8 oz. full fat cream cheese, room temperature
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz. shredded mozzarella, divided
• 2 oz. shredded Parmesan, divided
• 1 (6 oz.) can pitted medium black olives, halved or sliced
• 1 (6 oz.) can pitted green olives, halved or sliced
• Kosher salt
• fresh cracked pepper

How to Make Cheesy Baked Olive Dip

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Mix the Base Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, add:
1. Sour cream,
2. Cream cheese,
3. Minced garlic,
4. Half of the shredded mozzarella,
5. Half of the shredded Parmesan,
6. A few hearty pinches of kosher salt,
7. A pinch of fresh cracked pepper.

Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Fold in the Olives

Gently fold in the halved or sliced black and green olives until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the olive mixture to a greased 9×9 baking dish or a medium-sized cast iron skillet. Spread it out in an even layer.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top of the dip.

Step 6: Bake and Broil

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes. For a golden top, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes until the cheese is dark golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once done, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with sliced French baguette or your favorite dipping snacks. Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Baked Olive Dip!

How to Serve Cheesy Baked Olive Dip

Cheesy Baked Olive Dip is a versatile appetizer that can be enjoyed in many ways. This creamy delight pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it perfect for any gathering.

With Bread

• Sliced French Baguette – A classic choice, the crusty exterior and soft interior of a baguette complement the dip’s creaminess.
• Pita Chips – These crispy chips add a different texture and are great for scooping up the dip.
• Breadsticks – Serve warm and fresh, breadsticks provide a fun way to enjoy the dip.

With Vegetables

• Carrot Sticks – Crunchy and slightly sweet, carrot sticks are perfect for dipping while adding a healthy touch.
• Celery Sticks – The refreshing crunch of celery makes it an excellent companion for the rich flavors of the olive dip.
• Bell Pepper Strips – Colorful and sweet, bell pepper strips add a vibrant look and flavor contrast.

As Part of a Cheese Board

• Cheese Platter – Include various cheeses alongside the dip to create a delightful cheese board experience.
• Olives Variety – Add different types of olives to enhance the briny flavors of the dip and offer more options for guests.

How to Perfect Cheesy Baked Olive Dip

Creating the perfect Cheesy Baked Olive Dip is easy with these simple tips. Follow these suggestions for an even tastier result.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This helps in mixing everything smoothly, resulting in a creamier texture.
• Experiment with Cheese Varieties – Try using different cheese combinations like feta or gouda for unique flavors.
• Add Fresh Herbs – Incorporating herbs like basil or oregano can elevate the taste profile significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste – Don’t hesitate to taste your mixture before baking; adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Broil Carefully – Keep an eye on the broiler stage to prevent burning; you want that golden-brown finish without overcooking.
• Let It Rest Before Serving – Allowing the dip to sit for about 5 minutes after baking helps it set and enhances flavor melding.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Baked Olive Dip

Pairing side dishes with your Cheesy Baked Olive Dip can make your appetizer table even more appealing. Here are some great options.

1. Fresh Salad – A crisp garden salad adds freshness and balances out the richness of the dip.
2. Stuffed Mushrooms – These savory bites complement the cheesy flavors beautifully and make for an elegant addition.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted vegetables bring a warm, comforting aspect that pairs well with the dip.
4. Antipasto Skewers – Skewers filled with marinated veggies, mozzarella, and olives create an inviting platter alongside your dip.
5. Savory Scones – Cheese scones or herbed scones provide a delightful twist that’s perfect for dipping.
6. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a hearty option for those who love comfort food.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Cheesy Baked Olive Dip, there are a few common mistakes to steer clear of to ensure your dip turns out perfectly.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold sour cream and cream cheese can lead to a lumpy dip. Always let these ingredients come to room temperature before mixing.
• Overbaking: Baking the dip for too long can dry it out. Keep an eye on it and remove it when the top is golden brown.
• Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season adequately can result in a bland dip. Don’t forget those hearty pinches of salt and pepper!
• Not Mixing Well: If you don’t mix the cheeses and olives thoroughly, some bites may be overpoweringly salty or bland. Ensure everything is evenly combined.
• Ignoring Garnishes: Skipping the fresh parsley garnish misses out on boosting flavor and presentation. A little greenery goes a long way!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Cheesy Baked Olive Dip

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Cheesy Baked Olive Dip

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about the Cheesy Baked Olive Dip.

Can I make Cheesy Baked Olive Dip ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it up to 5 days in advance. Just store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

What types of olives work best in this dip?

Both black and green olives add unique flavors. Feel free to experiment with your favorite types!

Can I customize the Cheesy Baked Olive Dip?

Absolutely! Add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes for extra flavor.

How do I serve Cheesy Baked Olive Dip?

Serve warm with sliced French baguette, crackers, or veggie sticks for dipping!

Final Thoughts

The Cheesy Baked Olive Dip is a delightful appetizer that combines creamy textures with bold olive flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients while being perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Give it a try and enjoy this crowd-pleasing delight!