There’s a certain joy that wafts through the kitchen when the scent of freshly baked bread fills the air. The irresistible aroma of garlic mingling with savory Parmesan creates a cozy atmosphere that invites everyone to gather around the table. Recently, I rediscovered this simple yet delightful Garlic Parmesan Focaccia, and let me tell you, it has quickly become my go-to recipe for both casual dinners and special occasions.
What I love most about this bread is its versatility—served warm with a drizzle of olive oil, it pairs perfectly with pastas or can stand alone as a mouthwatering appetizer. Plus, the surprisingly easy process of making it from scratch makes it accessible for even the busiest weeknights. With a soft, airy interior and a golden crust, this focaccia is more than just a bread; it’s a love letter to homemade cooking that will leave your friends and family asking for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into the delightful journey of making this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia!
Why is Garlic Parmesan Focaccia a Must-Try?
Irresistible aroma: Imagine entering a kitchen filled with the mouthwatering smell of freshly baked focaccia, garlic, and cheese mingling together.
Quick and easy: With minimal effort, you can whip up this delicious bread in less than two hours, making it perfect for weeknight meals or unplanned gatherings.
Versatile pairing: This focaccia complements a variety of dishes, from rich pastas to vibrant salads, and can also shine as a standalone appetizer or snack.
Soft and fluffy: The tender, airy texture is truly comforting, making it impossible to resist tearing off a piece fresh from the oven.
Impressive and crowd-pleasing: Not only will your family rave about it, but this homemade focaccia will also wow your guests at any special occasion.
Ready to elevate your bread-baking game? Dive into this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia recipe and bring a touch of joy to your kitchen!
Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Ingredients
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture; substitute with bread flour for a chewier texture.
- Instant Yeast – Acts as the leavening agent for a fluffy rise without pre-proofing.
- Salt – Enhances the flavor; can be reduced for a lower sodium option.
- Warm Water – Activates yeast and hydrates the dough; ensure it’s around 110°F for the best results.
- Sugar – Feeds the yeast for a better rise; can be replaced with honey or agave.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds moisture and flavor; melted butter can also be used for a richer taste.
For the Toppings
- Garlic (minced) – Infuses the focaccia with garlicky deliciousness; try roasted garlic for a sweeter flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated) – Provides a savory flavor that elevates the dish; substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
- Dried Italian Herbs/Rosemary – Optional but adds aromatic depth; fresh herbs can substitute for stronger flavors.
- Flaky Sea Salt – Enhances overall flavor and adds a unique texture; kosher salt can be a substitute.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Focaccia
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Mix the Dough: In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until a sticky dough forms. Knead until smooth, about 5–6 minutes with a dough hook or 8–10 minutes by hand.
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First Rise: Coat the kneaded dough in extra virgin olive oil, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
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Prepare Garlic Oil: In a small pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil with the minced garlic for about 1 minute. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning, then set aside to cool.
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Stretch and Second Rise: Gently transfer the risen dough to a greased 9×13-inch pan and stretch it gently into the corners. If the dough resists, let it rest for 10 minutes before continuing. Cover and allow it to rise for 30–45 minutes.
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Add Toppings and Bake: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Using your fingers, dimple the surface of the dough, then brush it with the garlic oil. Sprinkle Parmesan, dried herbs, and flaky sea salt on top. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the focaccia is golden brown.
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Cool and Serve: After baking, allow the focaccia to cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice, enjoy warm, and consider drizzling with a little more olive oil for added flavor.
Optional: Serve with a side of balsamic vinegar for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Garlic Parmesan Focaccia
Perfect Kneading: Knead the dough well to develop gluten, ensuring your focaccia has a light, airy texture instead of being dense.
Watch the Garlic: When preparing the garlic oil, heat it gently to avoid burning the garlic. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor to your focaccia.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use freshly grated Parmesan and quality olive oil for the best flavors. While substitutes exist, nothing compares to fresh!
Avoid Sticky Dough: If the dough feels sticky while working with it, lightly coat your hands in olive oil instead of adding more flour. This maintains the dough’s texture.
Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the focaccia as it bakes. Oven temperatures can vary, so check for a golden-brown crust to know when it’s ready.
Versatile Toppings: Feel free to customize the focaccia by adding toppings like sun-dried tomatoes or olives. The garlic Parmesan focaccia is an excellent base for various flavors!
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Parmesan Focaccia
Room Temperature: Store your focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its delightful texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, preserving its savory goodness.
Reheating: To enjoy the focaccia warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10–15 minutes until heated through. This will help regain its lovely crustiness—perfect alongside your favorite dishes!
What to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Focaccia?
There’s no denying that a slice of warm, fluffy bread can elevate any meal, creating a harmonious dining experience.
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Creamy Tomato Soup: This rich and hearty soup is perfect for dipping, with its tangy flavors beautifully balancing the savory garlic and Parmesan of the focaccia.
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Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of leafy greens and vibrant veggies brings a bright contrast, adding freshness that complements the warm, cheesy bread.
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Herb-Infused Olive Oil: Drizzling a bit of high-quality olive oil with your favorite herbs adds a rich flavor boost, perfect for dipping pieces of focaccia.
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Grilled Vegetables: Smoky, charred veggies provide a flavorful contrast to the soft bread, making for a sumptuous and wholesome meal.
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Roasted Chicken: The savory flavors of roasted chicken harmonize beautifully with the Italian-inspired focaccia, creating a comforting and satisfying dinner.
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Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks: For those who adore cheese, pairing this focaccia with additional cheesy bites enhances the overall garlic and cheese experience in a delightful way.
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Sangria or Italian Wine: Sipping on a light, fruity sangria or a glass of dry Italian wine rounds out your meal perfectly, elevating the flavors and creating a festive atmosphere.
Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Variations
The beauty of Garlic Parmesan Focaccia lies in its adaptability—feel free to get creative with these tempting ideas!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative for a delicious vegan twist.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or thyme directly into the dough for an aromatic flavor explosion.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a touch of diced jalapeños for a zesty, spicy version that ignites the palate.
- Olive Toppings: Enhance with sliced olives or tapenade before baking for an extra layer of complex flavors and texture.
- Sweet Addition: Incorporate caramelized onions or roasted garlic for a sweeter, richer flavor that contrasts beautifully with the savory.
- Seeded Crust: Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top before baking for a delightful crunch and added nutrition.
- Nutty Flavor: Stir in chia seeds or flaxseeds into the dough to boost fiber and give it a pleasant nutty undertone.
- Pizza Style: Top your focaccia with marinara sauce and mozzarella for a delicious and indulgent pizza-inspired treat!
With these variations, you can easily reinvent your focaccia experience, keeping every bite exciting and new!
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Parmesan Focaccia options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the initial steps and let it rise, then pop it into the refrigerator instead of leaving it out. Before baking, bring the dough back to room temperature for about 30 minutes. Additionally, the garlic oil can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious focaccia, simply stretch it in the pan, let it rise for the final 30-45 minutes, add your toppings, and bake. This way, you’ll have fresh, golden focaccia with minimal effort—just as delightful as if you made it in one go!
Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for the best texture?
Absolutely go for all-purpose flour! It gives the focaccia its ideal structure. If you’re after a chewier texture, bread flour can be a fantastic alternative. Just keep in mind that it might alter the final result a bit.
How long does homemade focaccia last at room temperature?
Your delicious Garlic Parmesan Focaccia can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s well-covered to prevent it from drying out!
Can I freeze Garlic Parmesan Focaccia?
Yes, definitely! To freeze, wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap, followed by foil. It preserves well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature, then reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10–15 minutes to restore its delightful crustiness.
What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
No worries! If your dough isn’t rising, it might be due to the yeast being inactive. Make sure the water is warm (around 110°F), which helps activate the yeast. If the yeast doesn’t foam after 5 minutes in warm water, consider starting over with fresh yeast. Also, ensure that your rising environment is warm and draft-free, as this can greatly affect the dough’s ability to rise.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
If you or someone you’re serving has dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative such as nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese. Additionally, ensure that the ingredients you use are free from allergens like gluten if necessary. This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, but always check your ingredient labels to accommodate those with allergies or dietary preferences!
Garlic Parmesan Focaccia: Your New Favorite Homemade Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until a sticky dough forms. Knead until smooth, about 5–6 minutes with a dough hook or 8–10 minutes by hand.
- Coat the kneaded dough in extra virgin olive oil, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- In a small pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil with the minced garlic for about 1 minute. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning, then set aside to cool.
- Gently transfer the risen dough to a greased 9×13-inch pan and stretch it gently into the corners. If the dough resists, let it rest for 10 minutes before continuing. Cover and allow it to rise for 30–45 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Using your fingers, dimple the surface of the dough, then brush it with the garlic oil. Sprinkle Parmesan, dried herbs, and flaky sea salt on top. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the focaccia is golden brown.
- After baking, allow the focaccia to cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice, enjoy warm, and consider drizzling with a little more olive oil for added flavor.
