Hey y'all! If you're on the lookout for a crowd-pleasing, eye-catching party starter, this Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe - Holiday Appetizer is about to be your new go-to! Packed with creamy cheese, tangy olives, smoky peppers, and savory Italian meats, this log is a showstopper for holidays, potlucks, or game nights. Not only does it come together quickly, but it's also totally make-ahead friendly. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe - Holiday Appetizer
- Super easy and comes together in just 20 minutes—minimal prep, maximum flavor!
- Loaded with flavor from Italian meats, crisp veggies, and zesty seasonings.
- Stays fresh for days in the fridge, making it a perfect make-ahead holiday appetizer.
- Customizable with your favorite antipasto ingredients for endless options.
- Looks stunning on any appetizer platter, guaranteed to impress your guests!
Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe - Holiday Appetizer Ingredients
- 2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup Genoa salami, finely diced
- ¼ cup pepperoni, finely diced
- ⅓ cup roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
- ¼ cup green olives, chopped
- ¼ cup black olives, chopped
- ¼ cup marinated artichoke hearts, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
How to Make Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe - Holiday Appetizer
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese. Use a hand mixer or sturdy spatula to beat until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Add the Flavorful Fillings
Add diced salami, pepperoni, roasted red peppers, green and black olives, artichoke hearts, parsley, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and mozzarella to the cream cheese. Mix until thoroughly combined and evenly distributed.
Step 3: Shape into a Log
Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap or wax paper on your work surface. Scoop the cream cheese mixture into the center and shape it into a tight, even log (about 8 inches long). Wrap snugly and gently roll to perfect the shape.
Step 4: Chill
Refrigerate the wrapped log for at least 2 hours, or until firm. This helps the flavors meld and makes slicing much easier.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
Unwrap the chilled log. Brush lightly with olive oil for sheen and, if desired, roll it briefly in extra chopped parsley or finely diced roasted red pepper for a festive finish. Place on a serving platter with crackers, crostini, or veggie sticks—and watch it disappear!
Notes for the Perfect Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe - Holiday Appetizer
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for super smooth blending.
- You can prep this log up to 2 days ahead—just keep it wrapped tightly in the fridge.
- For more antipasto inspiration, check out Serious Eats' antipasto guide.
Variations on Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe - Holiday Appetizer
- Vegetarian: Skip the meats and double up on grilled veggies, sun-dried tomatoes, and capers.
- Spicy: Add chopped pepperoncini or Calabrian chilis for a fiery kick.
- Herbaceous: Substitute basil and chives for parsley and add a squeeze of lemon zest for extra freshness.
Required Equipment for Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe - Holiday Appetizer
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or sturdy spatula
- Plastic wrap or wax paper
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Serving platter
Storage Instructions & Shelf Life
Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best texture, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving. Learn more about safe storage here.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Serve your Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe - Holiday Appetizer with crunchy crostini, buttery crackers, or fresh sliced baguette.
- Pair with a crisp Italian white wine like Pinot Grigio, or a sparkling Prosecco.
- Complement with a platter of fresh grape tomatoes, cucumber slices, or even grilled vegetables for a veggie-forward spread.
Pro Tips for the Ultimate Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe - Holiday Appetizer
- Chill the log thoroughly before serving—this makes it easier to slice and helps the flavors meld well.
- Use a sharp, warmed knife for clean slices every time (run your knife under hot water and wipe dry).
- For a fully gluten-free option, serve alongside nut-based crackers or sliced cucumbers; learn more about gluten-free entertaining.
FAQ: Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe - Holiday Appetizer
- Can I make this Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe - Holiday Appetizer ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare and refrigerate it up to 2 days in advance for easy, stress-free hosting.
- Can I freeze the cream cheese log for later?
- While you can freeze it, the texture may become a bit grainy after thawing—it's best enjoyed fresh from the fridge.
- What other meats can I use?
- Feel free to swap in chopped prosciutto, capicola, or even turkey for a unique twist!
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: Serves 12 as an appetizer
Ingredients
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup diced salami
- ⅓ cup chopped green olives
- ⅓ cup roasted red peppers, chopped
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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1In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with chopped salami, green olives, roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic.
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2Mix all ingredients thoroughly until evenly combined. Add black pepper to taste.
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3Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Transfer the cheese mixture onto the wrap and shape into a log about 8 inches long.
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4Wrap the log tightly in the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to blend and log to firm.
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5Before serving, unwrap the cheese log and place on a platter. Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired. Serve with crackers or toasted baguette slices.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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