Description
Looking for an appetizer that wows the crowd? The Italian Antipasto Cream Cheese Log blends the richness of cream cheese with savory Italian flavors like roasted peppers, salami, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes. With its creamy texture and vibrant garnish, it’s the perfect centerpiece for any gathering, from holiday feasts to casual dinners.
Ingredients
- Cream Cheese: 16 oz, softened
- Sour Cream: ⅓ cup
- Thyme, Oregano, Basil, Rosemary: ½ tsp each, dried or fresh
- Black Pepper: ½ tsp
- Garlic Powder: 1 tsp
- Kosher Salt: 1 tsp
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1 tsp (adjust to taste)
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, freshly grated
- Roasted Peppers: 9 oz, drained and chopped
- Salami: 6 oz, finely chopped
- Green Olives: ¾ cup, chopped
- Green Onion: ⅓ cup, minced
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Oil: 7 oz, chopped
- Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped
- Rosemary Sprigs: For garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan
- Lightly spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with oil.
- Line the pan with plastic wrap, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- Combine Ingredients
- In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, thyme, oregano, basil, rosemary, black pepper, garlic powder, kosher salt, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir in grated cheddar cheese, roasted peppers, salami, olives, green onion, and half the sun-dried tomatoes.
- Taste and Adjust
- Sample the mixture and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Pack the Mixture
- Press the mixture firmly into the prepared loaf pan, removing air pockets.
- Smooth the top with a spatula, then fold the plastic wrap over to cover.
- Chill to Set
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
- Unmold and Garnish
- Invert the loaf pan onto a serving platter and remove the plastic wrap.
- Top with the remaining sun-dried tomatoes, drizzle with their oil, and garnish with parsley and rosemary sprigs.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Let the log sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving. Pair with crackers, crostini, or veggies for dipping.
Notes
- Use softened cream cheese for easier mixing.
- Grate cheddar cheese fresh for better texture and flavor.
- Customize the heat by adjusting red pepper flakes.
- Chill thoroughly to help the log hold its shape.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian