Baked Cheddar Cheese Olives
Cheddar-stuffed olives wrapped in a cheesy mixture, baked to golden perfection. This savory appetizer offers a delightful combination of tangy olives and rich cheese, perfect for parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Work together the shredded Cheddar cheese and oleo in a small bowl until well blended.
- Add flour and a dash of cayenne, mixing thoroughly.
- Wrap the cheese mixture around each large stuffed olive.
- Bake at 400°F for 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try substituting the sharp Cheddar cheese with pepper jack for added heat. If you're short on time, use pre-made cheese spreads instead of mixing your own. Ensure the olives are thoroughly drained to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the texture during baking. You can also experiment by adding herbs like thyme or oregano for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Baked Cheddar Cheese Olives make a fantastic appetizer at parties, especially when paired with a charcuterie board or served alongside Diane's Stuffed Cabbage. Consider serving them with a dipping sauce, such as a spicy aioli or a tangy mustard. They also pair well with cocktails or crisp white wines, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the olives on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Cheddar Cheese Olives contains roughly 237 calories, with 8g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (72% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of olives for this recipe?
Absolutely! While large stuffed olives work best for wrapping, you can use other varieties like green or kalamata olives. Just ensure they are large enough to hold the cheese mixture. Remember that different olives will impart unique flavors, so choose according to your preference.
Is there a gluten-free option for the flour in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just be aware that different flours may alter the texture slightly, so you might need to adjust the amounts based on the flour you choose.
How can I make these olives spicier?
For an extra kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the cheese mixture. You could also incorporate finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese blend. Adjusting the cheese type to include a spicier variety, like pepper jack, can also enhance the heat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).