Name: Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast; 1½ teaspoons salt; 1½ cups warm water (about 110°F); 1 tablespoon sugar; ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for greasing; 3–4 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or chopped rosemary (optional); Flaky sea salt, for topping

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If you have a soft spot for warm, fluffy bread topped with a wonderful mix of garlic and cheesy goodness, then you are absolutely going to adore this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia. This recipe brings together a tender, pillowy focaccia crust layered with fragrant garlic, freshly grated Parmesan, and a sprinkle of sea salt that creates a perfect balance of flavors. The crust is golden and inviting, with every bite offering a delightful blend of textures and tastes that make it both comforting and impressively versatile. Whether you’re new to baking bread or looking for a crowd-pleasing side, this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia will quickly become one of your favorites to bake and share with loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a key role in achieving the perfect Garlic Parmesan Focaccia. The flour builds structure, the yeast helps it rise beautifully, and the olive oil adds richness and that unmistakable Italian flair.

4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect balance of protein for a soft but sturdy focaccia texture.
2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast: Kicks off the fermentation process, helping the dough rise light and airy.
1½ teaspoons salt: Enhances every flavor and controls yeast activity for a balanced dough.
1½ cups warm water (about 110°F): Activates the yeast and forms the dough’s hydrating base.
1 tablespoon sugar: Feeds the yeast to give you that lovely rise and subtle sweetness.
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for greasing: Adds moisture, flavor, and a silky crumb to your focaccia.
3–4 cloves garlic, minced: Provides that punch of fragrant, savory flavor that defines this dish.
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers a salty, nutty richness that melts beautifully atop the bread.
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or chopped rosemary (optional): Brings an herby, aromatic depth that perfectly complements the garlic and cheese.
Flaky sea salt, for topping: Offers a crunchy, briny finish to highlight all of the focaccia’s flavors.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Focaccia

Step 1: Mix the Dough

Start by stirring together warm water, sugar, and instant yeast in a bowl. Let this mix rest for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, signaling that the yeast is alive and kicking. Gradually add the flour and salt, stirring until a sticky dough begins to form. Then, knead either with a dough hook for 5 to 6 minutes or by hand for about 8 to 10 minutes. The result should be a smooth, slightly tacky dough that’s ready for rising.

Step 2: First Rise

Coat the dough with olive oil to prevent drying, then cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Place it in a warm spot and allow it to rise for 1 to 1.5 hours until it doubles in size. Watching the dough grow is always a little moment of magic that shows the yeast working its wonders.

Step 3: Prepare Garlic Oil

While the dough is rising, grease a 9-by-13-inch baking pan with a bit of olive oil. In a small pan, gently heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil with the minced garlic until the aroma becomes intoxicating and fragrant, about a minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Once ready, set this infused oil aside for brushing later on.

Step 4: Stretch and Second Rise

Transfer your risen dough to the prepared pan and gently press it into the corners. Don’t worry if the dough resists at first—a quick 10-minute rest followed by another gentle stretch will do the trick. Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 30 to 45 minutes. This second rest helps develop the focaccia’s characteristic airy texture.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Bake

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Use your fingertips to dimple the dough deeply and generously brush that luscious garlic oil all over the surface. Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan, your choice of Italian herbs or rosemary, and a pinch of flaky sea salt evenly on top. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the focaccia is golden brown and irresistible.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia to cool in the pan for about 5 to 10 minutes. Then transfer it gently to a wire rack to prevent sogginess on the bottom. Slice it up while still warm to enjoy every gooey, garlicky bite at its best.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Focaccia

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives just before serving adds a pop of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the focaccia. For an extra elegant touch, drizzle some high-quality balsamic glaze right before digging in.

Side Dishes

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, a bowl of robust tomato soup, or even alongside a charcuterie board. Its savory depth complements a range of dishes from light lunch fare to indulgent dinner spreads.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your focaccia into garlic parmesan croutons by cubing and toasting pieces until crunchy, perfect for salads or soups. Or slice it thinly and use as a base for open-faced sandwiches topped with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for an Italian-inspired appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover Garlic Parmesan Focaccia tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it soft. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to two days, making it great for next-day snacking.

Freezing

You can freeze focaccia wrapped securely in foil and plastic wrap for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat the focaccia in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 8 minutes until warmed through and the edges regain a little crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread chewy or soggy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh yeast instead of instant yeast?

Absolutely! If you have fresh yeast on hand, just use about twice the amount by weight compared to instant yeast. Dissolve it in warm water first and follow the same instructions for proofing the yeast.

What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

While Parmesan adds a signature nutty saltiness to the focaccia, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or even a mild Asiago cheese if you prefer. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well and complements savory flavors.

Can I add other toppings to this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia?

Definitely! Feel free to sprinkle sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, caramelized onions, or even some crushed red pepper flakes before baking. This recipe is flexible and welcomes your favorite savory additions.

Do I need to punch down the dough after the first rise?

For this focaccia, simply pressing the dough into the pan is enough. The gentle handling preserves the airy texture that makes focaccia so delightful. Just give it a little rest if it resists stretching.

How can I make the focaccia more fluffy and light?

Ensure your yeast is fresh and active, don’t add too much flour during kneading, and be patient with the rising times. The double rise and proper hydration make the bread incredibly soft and fluffy.

Final Thoughts

Making Garlic Parmesan Focaccia at home is like giving yourself a warm, delicious hug that fills your kitchen with incredible aromas. It’s approachable, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable to your tastes. Once you try this recipe, you’ll find it hard to go back to store-bought bread. So grab your ingredients, get your hands floury, and enjoy every step of creating a loaf that’s truly made with love.

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 22 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia recipe delivers a fluffy, flavorful Italian flatbread infused with aromatic garlic and topped with savory Parmesan cheese and herbs. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or accompaniment to your favorite meals, this focaccia boasts a golden crust with a tender crumb and a delightful garlicky aroma.

Instructions

Mix the Dough: In a bowl, stir together warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour and salt, then mix until a sticky dough forms. Knead with a dough hook for 5–6 minutes or by hand for 8–10 minutes until smooth.
First Rise: Coat the dough with olive oil, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
Prepare Garlic Oil: Grease a 9×13-inch pan. In a small pan, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil with minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Set aside.
Stretch and Second Rise: Transfer the dough to the pan. Gently press it into the corners. If it resists, let it rest for 10 minutes, then stretch again. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes.
Add Toppings and Bake: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Dimple the dough with your fingers, brush with garlic oil, sprinkle with Parmesan, herbs, and sea salt. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

Use warm water (about 110°F) to activate the yeast properly.
You can substitute dried Italian herbs with fresh rosemary for a more aromatic flavor.
Letting the dough rest while stretching makes shaping easier and prevents tearing.
Serve focaccia warm for the best taste and texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian