Mozzarella Loaf
A flavorful Italian-inspired bread loaf filled with melted mozzarella and olives, topped with oregano. Perfect as an appetizer or sharing dish, it offers warm, cheesy goodness with savory hints from the olives and herbs, making it ideal for casual gatherings or cozy family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Cut Italian bread crosswise into 1-inch slices without cutting through the bottom crust.
- Cut mozzarella cheese into 1/4-inch slices.
- Place cheese slices and sliced olives between the bread slices.
- Place the loaf on a cookie sheet and bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is hot.
- Sprinkle the loaf with oregano.
- Use a knife to divide the loaf into slices and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes in addition to the olives. You can substitute provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses if you prefer. To achieve a crispier crust, wrap the loaf in aluminum foil for the first 10 minutes, then uncover for the remaining time. This dish pairs beautifully with Garlic Toast For Pasta Dishes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the mozzarella loaf as a main dish or as an appetizer for gatherings. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, such as Fresh Italian Pasta Salad, or alongside a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of sautéed spinach or a light vegetable medley.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the loaf in foil and bake at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for about 30 seconds, but this may result in a softer texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mozzarella Loaf contains roughly 436 calories, with 30g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (98% of the Daily Value), iron (63% of the Daily Value), and protein (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 996mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the loaf by assembling it a few hours in advance and keeping it covered in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, just preheat the oven and follow the baking instructions. This makes it a convenient option for parties or busy nights.
What can I use if I don't have mozzarella cheese?
If mozzarella is not available, you can substitute with other melty cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda. Each will bring its own unique flavor to the loaf. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well to achieve that gooey texture we love.
Can I add more ingredients to the loaf?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the loaf with additional fillings like cooked sausage, pepperoni, or various veggies like spinach or artichokes. Just be cautious not to overstuff, as this can make it difficult to slice and serve.
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).