Baked Olive Dip Recipe

The Perfect Baked Olive Dip Recipe: Zesty, Creamy Goodness

Tangy olives craft this baked dip into a mouthwatering appetizer that captures everyone’s attention.

Creamy cheese melts into a luscious base, creating an irresistible texture that begs for continuous sampling.

Mediterranean-inspired flavors dance across your palate with each delectable scoop.

The combination of salty and smooth ingredients promises an unforgettable culinary experience.

Unexpected depth emerges from simple, high-quality components blended with care and passion.

Comfort meets sophistication in this crowd-pleasing starter that disappears faster than you can prepare it.

Cheesy Baked Olive Dip: The Ultimate Party Snack

  • Indulge in Cheesy Decadence: Packed with mozzarella and Parmesan, this dip delivers a rich, luxurious cheese experience that melts in your mouth with incredible smoothness.
  • Quick and Effortless Entertaining: Whips up in under 40 minutes with simple ingredients, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or spontaneous appetizer cravings.
  • Flavor-Packed Mediterranean Twist: Black and green olives add a tangy, briny kick that elevates the creamy cheese base, creating a sophisticated flavor profile that surprises and delights guests.
  • Versatile Party Pleaser: Serves 8 people, pairs beautifully with French baguette slices, and works as a crowd-pleasing appetizer for game nights, potlucks, or casual dinner parties.

Key Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Olive Dip

Dairy Base:
  • Sour Cream: Creamy and tangy base that adds richness and smooth texture to the dip.
  • Cream Cheese: Provides a rich, velvety consistency and helps bind the ingredients together.
  • Mozzarella, Parmesan Cheese: Melty cheeses that create a golden, stretchy, and flavorful topping.
Olive and Seasonings:
  • Black Olives, Green Olives: Briny and salty mix that adds bold Mediterranean flavor and interesting texture.
  • Garlic: Aromatic and sharp ingredient that enhances the overall taste profile.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate the dips flavor.
Garnish and Serving:
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright green herb that adds a fresh, clean finish to the dip.
  • French Baguette: Classic bread for dipping, offering a crisp and perfect vehicle for the cheesy olive mixture.

How to Make the Best Cheesy Baked Olive Dip

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and get ready for a delicious adventure.

Step 2: Create a Creamy Base

In a mixing bowl, blend together:
  • Sour cream
  • Cream cheese
  • Garlic
  • Mozzarella
  • Parmesan
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Mix until the ingredients become silky smooth.

Step 3: Add Olive Goodness

Gently fold in sliced black and green olives, creating a colorful and tasty mixture.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish

Transfer the olive-packed mixture into a greased 9×9 baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top for an extra cheesy layer.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the dip is hot and bubbling with excitement.

Step 6: Create a Golden Crust

Switch the oven to broil and cook for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully as the cheese turns a beautiful golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and serve alongside sliced French baguette. Get ready to wow your guests with this irresistible cheesy olive dip!

Tips for Perfecting Your Cheesy Baked Olive Dip

  • Choose Fresh Ingredients: Select high-quality olives and recently purchased cheeses for maximum flavor and creamy texture.
  • Drain Olives Thoroughly: Pat olives dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture from making the dip watery.
  • Room Temperature Advantage: Let cream cheese and sour cream sit out for 15 minutes before mixing to ensure smoother blending.
  • Customize Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheese combinations like sharp cheddar or fontina for unique flavor profiles.
  • Serve Immediately: Enjoy the dip hot and fresh from the oven for the best melted cheese experience and optimal texture.

How to Keep Your Cheesy Olive Dip Fresh for Later

  • Refrigeration: Transfer leftover dip to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent moisture loss and maintain freshness.
  • Reheating in Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and place the dip in an oven-safe dish. Warm for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Top with extra cheese for a crispy finish if desired.
  • Microwave Option: Reheat small portions in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the dip to separate or become rubbery.

Serve Your Dip with These Crispy Snacks

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: A zesty Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio cuts through the rich, creamy texture of the olive dip, balancing its intense cheesy flavor with bright, refreshing notes.
  • Match with Mediterranean Appetizers: Serve alongside hummus, tzatziki, or marinated artichokes to create a Mediterranean-inspired spread that complements the olive dip's bold Mediterranean flavors.
  • Serve with Crunchy Bread Options: Beyond the French baguette, try toasted pita chips, rosemary focaccia, or garlic crostini to provide different textures and enhance the dip's cheesy, olive-packed profile.
  • Complement with Light Salad: Add a simple Greek salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and feta to balance the dip's richness and provide a fresh, crisp counterpoint to the warm, cheesy appetizer.

Creative Twists on Cheesy Baked Olive Dip

  • Mediterranean Herb Fusion: Replace garlic with a blend of fresh rosemary, thyme, and oregano for an aromatic Mediterranean-inspired version that elevates the dip's flavor profile.
  • Spicy Jalapeño Kick: Add diced jalapeños and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to introduce a zesty heat that complements the creamy cheese and olive combination.
  • Roasted Vegetable Boost: Mix in roasted red peppers and caramelized onions to create a more complex and hearty dip that offers additional depth and texture.
  • Greek-Style Olive Extravaganza: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese and kalamata olives for an authentic Greek-inspired variation that brings tangy and rich Mediterranean flavors to the classic recipe.
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Baked Olive Dip Recipe

Baked Olive Dip Recipe


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4.9 from 34 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Mediterranean olives mingle with melted cheese in this irresistible dip that brings Mediterranean warmth to any gathering. Creamy, tangy, and packed with robust flavors, the recipe promises a crowd-pleasing appetizer you’ll want to share again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) full fat cream cheese, room temperature
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) full fat sour cream, room temperature
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) shredded mozzarella, divided
  • 1 (6 ounces/170 grams) can pitted medium black olives, halved or sliced
  • 1 (6 ounces/170 grams) can pitted green olives, halved or sliced

Cheese Ingredients:

  • 2 ounces (57 grams) shredded Parmesan, divided

Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Kosher salt
  • Fresh cracked pepper

Instructions

  1. Thoroughly combine sour cream, cream cheese, minced garlic, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, kosher salt, and ground black pepper in a large mixing bowl until achieving a uniform, silky consistency.
  2. Gently incorporate sliced black olives and green olives into the creamy mixture, ensuring even distribution throughout the dip.
  3. Prepare a 9×9 inch (23×23 centimeters) baking dish by lightly greasing the surface to prevent sticking.
  4. Carefully transfer the olive-studded cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the dip, creating a generous and appealing cheese layer.
  6. Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes until the dip is thoroughly heated and exhibits a slight bubbling around the edges.
  7. Switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to achieve a golden-brown, crispy cheese topping without burning.
  8. Remove from the oven and let the dip rest for 2-3 minutes to slightly cool and set.
  9. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant color and herbal aroma.
  10. Serve immediately alongside sliced French baguette for dipping, ensuring guests enjoy the warm, cheesy, and olive-rich appetizer.

Notes

  • Leftover dip stays fresh in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
  • Swap green and black olives with kalamata or stuffed olives for a unique Mediterranean twist.
  • Serve this creamy, tangy dip warm alongside crackers, pita chips, or toasted bread slices.
  • For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the cheese mixture.
  • Prep time is quick, taking only 10 minutes before baking, making it perfect for spontaneous gatherings.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 570 kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 950mg
  • Fat: 54g
  • Saturated Fat: 30g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg
Mary Ellen

Mary Ellen

Founder, Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Artisanal Bread Making
  • Exquisite Pastry Craftsmanship
  • Creative Dessert Presentation
  • Flavor Profile Development
  • Menu Concept Innovation.

Education

Savannah Technical College

  • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts
  • Focus: A specialized program focusing on baking and pastry fundamentals, including bread making, cake decorating, and advanced pastry techniques. Developed creative presentation skills and an understanding of ingredient functions through lab-based practice.

Mary Ellen is the heart and soul of thatsmyhome.com. As the founder, pastry chef, and recipe developer, she refined her skills at Savannah Technical College with an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts. 

Mary blends classic techniques with modern twists to make artisanal breads, beautifully crafted pastries, and desserts full of unique flavor. Her passion is evident in every recipe, and she enjoys sharing her expertise through hands-on pastry workshops and insightful articles in local culinary magazines.

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