Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Recipe

If there’s a more inviting aroma than freshly baked Garlic Parmesan Focaccia wafting from your kitchen, I haven’t found it yet! This pillowy, golden bread has a crisped edge, is absolutely loaded with garlicky flavor, and boasts a shower of savory Parmesan that crackles delightfully under your teeth. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious beginner, this focaccia is pure comfort—easy enough for weeknight dinners, impressive enough for gatherings, and practically begging to be dipped, topped, or devoured warm from the pan.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Garlic Parmesan Focaccia so special is its simplicity—the ingredients come together in a way that’s so much bigger than the sum of their parts. Each item in this lineup has a deliciously important role to play, contributing flavor, texture, or pure wow factor to every bite.

• All-purpose flour: Gives the focaccia its soft, fluffy crumb and chewy bite—don’t substitute here!
• Instant yeast: The magic ingredient for a beautiful rise without complicated steps or lengthy waits.
• Salt: Essential for enhancing all those other flavors; don’t skimp on it.
• Sugar: Feeds the yeast and balances the gentle tang of Parmesan and garlic.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Richness, aroma, and a classic Italian flavor profile—plus it creates those irresistible crispy edges.
• Garlic, minced: The star of the show—three cloves will infuse every slice with bold, punchy flavor.
• Italian herbs or dried rosemary: These add earthiness and depth, with rosemary giving a woodsy, pine-scented lift.
• Water: Hydrates the dough, making it beautifully supple and airy once baked.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into a deeply savory, slightly nutty crust—try to grate it fresh if you can.
• Flaky sea salt: The finishing touch that elevates every mouthful with little bursts of flavor.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Focaccia

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by grabbing a large bowl and combining the flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar. Stir them well to evenly distribute the yeast and salt—this little step makes sure every bite of your focaccia is seasoned perfectly from the inside out.

Step 2: Incorporate the Flavor Makers

Now it’s time to stir in the olive oil, minced garlic, and your herbs of choice. The olive oil lends richness and flavor, while the garlic and herbs infuse the dough with layers of aroma that will remind you of your favorite Italian bakery.

Step 3: Add Water and Knead

Gradually pour in the water, mixing as you go, until you have a shaggy dough. Get your hands in there and knead until the mixture becomes smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes by hand (or let a stand mixer with a dough hook work its magic for 3 minutes). Don’t rush this step—it’s what will give your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia that satisfying chew.

Step 4: Let It Rise

Cover your dough with a damp cloth and set it somewhere warm. In about an hour, it should double in size—this is when the yeast works its magic, transforming your dough into a fluffy, airy masterpiece.

Step 5: Dimple and Top

Grease your baking dish or sheet with olive oil, then punch down the risen dough and gently press it into the pan. Use your fingertips to create signature focaccia dimples all over the surface—these little wells will catch the olive oil and Parmesan, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite.

Step 6: Finish and Bake

Drizzle the top with more olive oil, scatter over the grated Parmesan cheese, and sprinkle generously with flaky sea salt. Bake in your preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top is beautifully golden and your kitchen smells absolutely unforgettable.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Let your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia cool for a few minutes out of the oven (tough as that might be!), then slice it up and serve. Every piece should have a bit of crispy edge, fluffy center, and plenty of savory topping.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Focaccia

Garnishes

Add a flourish of freshly chopped parsley, a crack of black pepper, or even another dusting of Parmesan just before serving. These little extras accentuate the flavor and make your focaccia look extra tempting on the table.

Side Dishes

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia is perfect alongside a big green salad, a bowl of hearty soup, or a classic Italian pasta. It’s ideal for soaking up tomato sauces or pairing with your favorite antipasto platter for an effortless appetizer.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your focaccia into a sophisticated appetizer by slicing it into squares and topping with roasted vegetables, whipped ricotta, or thinly shaved prosciutto. Or use it as a rustic sandwich bread—just slice in half and layer with grilled chicken, fresh greens, and a drizzle of balsamic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Garlic Parmesan Focaccia in an airtight container or well-sealed bag at room temperature for up to two days. It stays surprisingly soft, but if you prefer, you can refrigerate it to extend freshness a bit longer—just be sure to warm it before serving.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap individual slices or wedges tightly in plastic wrap and place in a zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready for a taste of that homemade goodness, thaw at room temperature or reheat straight from frozen.

Reheating

For best results, pop your leftover focaccia in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8 to 10 minutes—it revives the crispy edges and makes the Parmesan melt all over again. Microwaving works in a pinch, but the toaster oven is your best bet for restoring that irresistible texture.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Absolutely! Just dissolve the active dry yeast in the warm water along with the sugar and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy, then proceed as usual with the recipe. Your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia will rise beautifully.

What’s the best way to get those classic focaccia dimples?

Use your fingertips to firmly press into the dough all over the surface after spreading it in the pan. Don’t be shy—the deeper your dimples, the more olive oil and Parmesan they’ll hold!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute a good quality 1-for-1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour and keep an eye on the hydration, as some blends might absorb more water. The results will still deliver lovely, chewy Garlic Parmesan Focaccia.

Can I add toppings besides Parmesan?

Definitely—this recipe is a fantastic canvas. Try sliced olives, sun-dried tomatoes, caramelized onions, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for a little heat. The Parmesan pairs well with all sorts of flavors.

How do I know when my focaccia is done baking?

Look for a deep golden color on top and make sure the bread pulls ever so slightly from the pan edges. If you tap the surface, it should sound slightly hollow. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on it after the 20-minute mark.

Final Thoughts

There’s genuine joy in baking—and sharing—something as wonderful as Garlic Parmesan Focaccia. I can’t recommend this recipe highly enough; it’s simple, satisfying, and crazy delicious. Give it a try and let the scent of homemade bread bring everyone running to your kitchen!

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