Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread is a savory delight that combines the rich, earthy taste of olives, the smoky flavor of crispy bacon, and gooey melted cheese, all baked into a soft, golden loaf. This bread is perfect for serving alongside soups and salads, making a great addition to any meal. It’s easy to make, versatile, and even freezes well for later use. Whether you’re preparing for a dinner party or looking to elevate your everyday bread, this recipe is a must-try!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 cup lukewarm water

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• ½ cup pitted green or Kalamata olives, roughly chopped

• 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)

• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (optional)

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center and add lukewarm water and olive oil. Mix to form a rough dough.

2. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if the dough is too sticky.

3. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

4. Mix in the Goodies: Punch down the dough, then knead in olives, bacon, cheese, and rosemary (if using). Ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

5. Shape and Second Rise: Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan, or form it into a rustic shape on a baking sheet. Let it rise for another 30 minutes.

6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

7. Egg Wash: Brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg to give it a golden, shiny crust.

8. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom and the crust is golden brown.

9. Cool: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Nutrients (per serving)

• Calories: Varies based on serving size

• Fat: 5g (approx.)

• Carbohydrates: 20g (approx.)

• Protein: 7g (approx.)

A Flavorful Combination of Ingredients

The ingredients for Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread are simple yet flavorful, and they come together to create a bread that is anything but ordinary. The base of the bread is made from all-purpose flour, yeast, and a few pantry staples. The addition of olives, bacon, and cheese gives it a hearty, savory flavor that makes it a standout side dish for any meal.

The olives bring a briny, tangy taste that cuts through the richness of the bacon and cheese, providing a balanced contrast. The bacon adds a smoky, savory depth, while the cheese creates a creamy texture that melts beautifully within the dough. Fresh rosemary, if added, offers a fragrant, herbal note that complements the other ingredients and elevates the flavor profile of the bread.

Easy to Make and Versatile

Making Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread is easier than you might think. The dough itself is simple to prepare and doesn’t require any special techniques. Once the ingredients are mixed and kneaded together, you simply let the dough rise, incorporate the fillings, and let it rise again before baking.

This bread is also versatile. While the recipe calls for green or Kalamata olives, you can experiment with different types to suit your taste. You can use mild, buttery green olives or opt for the more pungent black Kalamata olives. If you’re a fan of other Mediterranean ingredients, feel free to add sundried tomatoes, roasted garlic, or even some grated Parmesan cheese to the dough. The bread also works well with other meats, such as turkey bacon or pancetta, for a slightly different flavor.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread is the perfect accompaniment to a variety of meals. Its savory richness makes it an ideal side dish for soups, salads, or stews. Whether you’re serving it with a bowl of tomato soup or pairing it with a light salad, the combination of textures and flavors in this bread enhances any dish it accompanies.

The bread is also a great choice for gatherings and parties. Its rustic, homemade appeal is sure to impress guests, and its hearty flavor makes it a satisfying addition to any spread. It can be served alongside other appetizers, used to make delicious sandwiches, or simply enjoyed with a spread of butter.

Additionally, this bread works wonderfully for holiday meals, adding a special touch to your festive table. It pairs particularly well with roasted meats, vegetable dishes, or a charcuterie board, offering a flavorful alternative to traditional dinner rolls.

Make-Ahead Convenience

If you’re looking to save time in the kitchen, Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread is a great make-ahead option. You can prepare the dough in advance and allow it to rise, then refrigerate it overnight before baking. Alternatively, you can shape the bread and let it go through the first rise, then store it in the fridge and bake it the next day.

For even more convenience, this bread freezes beautifully. Once baked, simply allow the bread to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it and reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to bring back its fresh-baked aroma and flavor.

This make-ahead feature is especially helpful for busy days when you don’t have time to prepare fresh bread from scratch. Having a loaf of this savory bread in your freezer means you can enjoy a homemade treat with minimal effort, any time you need it.

Nutritional Benefits

While Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread is undoubtedly a rich and indulgent treat, it also offers some nutritional benefits. The bread provides a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fat, making it a satisfying addition to your meal. The olives contribute a small amount of healthy fats and antioxidants, while the bacon adds a boost of protein and flavor. The cheese provides calcium, and depending on the type used, it may also offer some additional vitamins.

Each serving of the bread contains around 190 calories, with approximately 5 grams of fat, 20 grams of carbohydrates, and 7 grams of protein. While it’s not a low-calorie food, its hearty nature means that a little goes a long way. It pairs perfectly with lighter, vegetable-based dishes, helping to round out your meal with a satisfying and flavorful bread option.

Conclusion

Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread is the perfect choice for anyone looking to elevate their bread game. With its combination of savory flavors, soft texture, and golden crust, it’s a delicious and versatile addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it as a side for dinner, enjoying it as a snack, or gifting it to friends and family, this bread is sure to impress.

Not only does it offer fantastic taste, but it’s also easy to make and even easier to adapt to your preferences. The option to freeze the bread adds convenience, making it a great make-ahead solution for busy weeks or special occasions. The next time you’re in the mood for something savory and satisfying, this Olive, Bacon, and Cheese Bread is an absolute must-try!