Delight Your Taste Buds: Cheesy Baked Olive Dip
Are you ready to elevate your appetizer game? Look no further than our Cheesy Baked Olive Dip. Bursting with the briny goodness of green and black olives, melded with creamy cheeses and savory spices, this dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a flavorful snack, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Join us as we dive into the world of cheesy indulgence and learn how to create this irresistible dish step by step.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup green olives, roughly chopped
- 1 cup black olives, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated, divided
- Green onions, optional, finely chopped
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- Crackers, for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or cast-iron skillet with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped green olives, black olives, mayonnaise, cream cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, and half of the grated cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish or skillet, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining grated cheddar cheese over the top of the dip.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with finely chopped green onions, if desired, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm with crackers for dipping.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For added flavor, you can mix in other ingredients such as chopped sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences. You can add more garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
- Substitute the sharp cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the dip mixture in a food processor before baking.
- Experiment with different types of olives for unique flavor combinations. Kalamata olives or stuffed green olives would be delicious alternatives.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- To make this dip keto-friendly, you can use full-fat cream cheese and mayonnaise. Serve with keto-friendly dippers such as celery sticks or cucumber slices.
- Omit the crackers and serve with low-carb options such as pork rinds or bell pepper slices.
In conclusion, our Cheesy Baked Olive Dip is a surefire way to impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds. With its rich, creamy texture and bold flavors, this dip is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy night in, or simply craving a delicious snack, this recipe is a winner. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to dip into cheesy perfection!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
- Can I use marinated olives instead of plain olives?
- Absolutely! Marinated olives will add an extra layer of flavor to the dip. Just be mindful of any additional saltiness from the marinade and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
- Can I make this dip ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the dip up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
- While you can technically freeze leftovers, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for up to a few days.
- What can I serve with this dip?
- This dip pairs perfectly with an array of dippers, including crackers, breadsticks, tortilla chips, or vegetable crudites. Choose your favorites and enjoy!
- Can I customize the cheese blend?
- Certainly! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to create your own unique flavor profile. Monterey Jack, Gouda, or feta would all be delicious additions or substitutions.
- Is this dip suitable for vegetarians?
- Yes, this dip is vegetarian-friendly. Just be sure to check the labels on your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary preferences and restrictions.