Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread: A Fluffy, Flavorful Italian Classic

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There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked focaccia bread wafting through your kitchen—especially when it’s infused with garlic, Parmesan, and a touch of herbs. This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread recipe is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. With its golden crust, airy interior, and irresistible toppings, it’s the perfect side for soups, salads, or just enjoying on its own. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe

Irresistible Garlic-Parmesan Flavor:

This focaccia is loaded with minced garlic and freshly grated Parmesan, creating a savory, umami-packed bite in every slice. The optional herbs add an extra layer of aromatic goodness.

Perfectly Chewy and Crisp Texture:

The dough bakes up with a golden, slightly crisp crust and a soft, airy interior—just like the focaccia you’d find in an Italian bakery.

Easy to Customize:

Focaccia is a blank canvas! Add sundried tomatoes, olives, or even caramelized onions to make it your own.

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread

Variations

Rosemary and Sea Salt Focaccia:

Skip the Parmesan and garlic, and instead top the dough with fresh rosemary and extra flaky sea salt for a classic version.

Sun-Dried Tomato and Olive Focaccia:

Fold chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Kalamata olives into the dough before the second rise for a Mediterranean twist.

Cheesy Pull-Apart Focaccia:

Add shredded mozzarella between layers of dimpled dough before baking for a gooey, cheesy center.

How to Prepare Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread

Step 1:

In a bowl, stir together warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy—this ensures your yeast is active.

Step 2:

Add flour and salt, then mix until a sticky dough forms. Knead by mixer for 5–6 minutes or by hand for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3:

Coat the dough in olive oil, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.

Step 4:

Grease a 9×13-inch pan. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil with minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute), then set aside.

Step 5:

Transfer the dough to the pan, gently pressing it toward the corners. Let it rest for 10 minutes if needed, then finish stretching. Cover and let it rise again for 30–45 minutes.

Step 6:

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Dimple the dough with your fingers, brush with garlic oil, and sprinkle Parmesan, herbs, and sea salt on top.

Step 7:

Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown. Cool for 5–10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and serve warm!

Tips and Tricks

Use a stand mixer for easier kneading:

A dough hook attachment saves time and effort, ensuring the dough is perfectly kneaded without sticky hands.

Let the dough rise in a warm spot:

Place it near a preheating oven or in a slightly warmed (then turned off) microwave to speed up rising.

Don’t skip the dimpling:

Pressing your fingers into the dough creates those classic focaccia pockets that hold the garlic oil and toppings.

How to Serve

Pair with a hearty soup:

Serve alongside tomato basil soup or minestrone for a comforting meal.

Use for sandwiches:

Slice horizontally and fill with prosciutto, mozzarella, and arugula for an Italian-inspired sandwich.

Enjoy as an appetizer:

Cut into small squares and serve with olive oil and balsamic glaze for dipping.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Freeze for later:

Wrap cooled focaccia tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warm.

Store at room temperature:

Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Refresh in the oven for 5 minutes before serving.

Make the dough ahead:

Prepare the dough, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

FAQ

There you have it—a foolproof Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it fresh from the oven, this bread is pure comfort in every bite. Happy baking!

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