This indulgent stuffed bread features a soft, buttery dough filled with a savory blend of cheese, garlic, and olives. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Resting Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Ingredients
- For the Dough:
- 400 ml (1 2/3 cups) warm water
- 200 ml (3/4 cup) warm milk
- 30 ml (2 tablespoons) vegetable oil
- 8 g (2 teaspoons) dried yeast
- 10 g (1 tablespoon) sugar
- 850 g (6 3/4 cups) flour
- 150 g (2/3 cup) soft butter
- For the Filling:
- 100 g (1 cup) cheese, shredded
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 150 g (1 cup) green olives, chopped
- 80 g (1/3 cup) cream cheese
- 60 g (1/4 cup) mayonnaise
- 3 g (1/2 teaspoon) black pepper
Directions
- Activate the Yeast:
- Mix warm water, warm milk, vegetable oil, yeast, and sugar in a bowl.
- Let sit for 10 minutes until the yeast is activated and frothy.
- Make the Dough:
- Gradually add flour to the yeast mixture and knead until a smooth, elastic dough forms.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 20 minutes.
- Incorporate Butter:
- Knead the soft butter into the dough until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a pan over medium heat, melt a small amount of butter and sauté the minced garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the chopped green olives, cream cheese, mayonnaise, shredded cheese, and black pepper. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes until the mixture is creamy and combined.
- Stuff the Bread:
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle.
- Spread the cheese and olive mixture evenly over the dough.
- Roll the dough into a log and slice into portions about 1–2 inches thick.
- Cook the Bread:
- Preheat a pan over medium heat and grease lightly.
- Place the stuffed bread slices in the pan and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve:
- Serve warm with a sprinkle of black pepper or your favorite dipping sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a marinara or garlic dipping sauce.
- Serve alongside soups or salads for a complete meal.
- Enjoy as a snack with coffee or tea.
Cooking Tips
- Use a rolling pin to ensure an even dough thickness for consistent baking or cooking.
- Ensure the pan is preheated to avoid sticking and to achieve even browning.
- Substitute green olives with black olives or sun-dried tomatoes for variety.
Nutritional Benefits
- Olives: Provide healthy fats and antioxidants.
- Cheese: Rich in calcium and protein.
- Garlic: Adds flavor and offers immune-boosting properties.
Dietary Information
- Contains dairy, gluten, and eggs.
- Customize with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Approx. 12 servings):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 7 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet or oven before serving.
- Freeze uncooked portions for up to 1 month and thaw before cooking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines soft, buttery bread with a rich and savory filling.
- Simple to prepare with basic pantry ingredients.
- Perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a make-ahead snack.
- Versatile and easy to customize with your favorite fillings.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Garlic and Olive Stuffed Bread is a flavorful and satisfying recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. The buttery dough and cheesy, garlicky filling create a delightful combination that’s sure to impress. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side, this stuffed bread will quickly become a favorite in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, but the texture may be denser. Mix with all-purpose flour for better results.
- Can I make this recipe vegan? Substitute butter with vegan margarine, and use dairy-free cheese and egg substitutes.
- How do I prevent the filling from leaking? Roll the dough tightly and seal the edges firmly.
- Can I bake the bread instead of pan-cooking? Yes, bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
- What other fillings can I use? Try sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or feta cheese for variety.
- How do I know when the bread is cooked through? The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
- Can I make the dough in advance? Yes, prepare the dough and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. Bring to room temperature before using.
- What type of cheese works best? Mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda are excellent for their melting properties.
- Can I freeze the stuffed bread? Yes, freeze before or after cooking. Reheat in a skillet or oven.
- How do I ensure even cooking? Cook over medium heat and flip the bread slices halfway through.
Enjoy this indulgent and flavorful stuffed bread for any occasion!