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
- 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.
- Gently incorporate sliced black olives and green olives into the creamy mixture, ensuring even distribution throughout the dip.
- Prepare a 9×9 inch (23×23 centimeters) baking dish by lightly greasing the surface to prevent sticking.
- Carefully transfer the olive-studded cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the dip, creating a generous and appealing cheese layer.
- 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.
- 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.
- Remove from the oven and let the dip rest for 2-3 minutes to slightly cool and set.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant color and herbal aroma.
- 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