Description
This festive Italian Cheese Loaf is a creamy, flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Combining cream cheese, cheddar, roasted peppers, salami, olives, green onion, and sun-dried tomatoes, this no-bake cheese loaf is packed with savory herbs and spices. Easy to prepare and visually appealing with a festive garnish of rosemary and parsley, it’s ideal for serving with crackers as a crowd-pleasing starter.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Loaf Mixture
- 500g (1 lb) cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1/2 tsp thyme
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp basil
- 1/2 tsp rosemary
- 1/2 tsp black pepper OR 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp red pepper/chilli flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups cheddar or other cheese, freshly grated
- 280g (9 oz) roasted peppers, drained and finely chopped
- 180g (6 oz) salami, finely chopped
- 3/4 cup green olives, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup green onion, finely minced (3-4 stalks)
Garnish
- 220g (7 oz) sun dried tomato strips with oil, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped (or chives)
- Rosemary sprigs (for decoration)
- Jatz or other crackers (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Spray a loaf pan with oil and line it with cling wrap, leaving enough overhang to cover the loaf later.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, herbs, spices, grated cheddar, roasted peppers, salami, olives, and green onion. Mix thoroughly and taste to adjust salt as needed, keeping in mind the saltiness of your crackers.
- Form the Loaf: Scrape the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Level the surface and press down firmly to remove any air pockets. Using a smaller pan will create a taller loaf.
- Chill: Cover the loaf with the cling wrap overhang and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, up to one week, to let the flavors meld and the loaf set firmly.
- Unmold the Loaf: Turn the chilled loaf out onto a serving platter and gently peel off the cling wrap.
- Garnish: Top the loaf with the sun dried tomato strips, pouring over their oil for added flavor. Garnish with chopped parsley and rosemary sprigs for a festive presentation.
- Serve: For best flavor, serve the cheese loaf closer to room temperature rather than straight from the fridge. Offer with Jatz or your preferred crackers. The soft texture allows easy scooping without knives.
Notes
- Softened cream cheese ensures easy mixing and a smooth texture.
- Sour cream adds creaminess and tanginess balancing the savory ingredients.
- Using a fresher cheddar or a flavorful cheese blend enhances depth of taste.
- Roasted peppers and salami contribute smoky and meaty notes that complement the herbs.
- Adjust seasoning carefully as some ingredients like salami and olives already contain salt.
- Chilling time is crucial for the loaf to firm up and flavors to develop fully.
- Serve chilled or slightly warmed to bring out the aromas and creamy consistency.
