Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe
This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a savory and easy-to-make Italian classic that combines fluffy, golden-baked bread with a flavorful topping of garlic-infused olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, this focaccia requires minimal hands-on time and yields a deliciously aromatic bread with a crisp crust and tender interior.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ¾ cups warm water (about 110°F)
For the Garlic Parmesan Topping:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
To Finish:
- Additional olive oil for greasing
- Flaky sea salt for sprinkling
- Fresh parsley or herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and instant yeast. Stir in the olive oil and warm water. Mix until a sticky dough forms. No need to knead—just cover with plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Pan: Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or sheet pan with olive oil. Transfer the dough to the pan and gently stretch it to the edges. Let it rest for another 30 minutes while you prepare the topping.
- Make the Garlic Oil: In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over low heat. Add the minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Cook just until fragrant—do not brown the garlic. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Dimple the Dough: Use your fingers to press deep dimples into the dough all over. Drizzle the garlic oil evenly over the surface. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and a pinch of flaky sea salt on top.
- Bake the Focaccia: Bake in a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve and Enjoy: Cut into squares or strips and serve warm. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it disappears.
Notes
- No kneading is required; the dough is sticky and will rise properly without it.
- Ensure the garlic is cooked just until fragrant to avoid a bitter, burnt taste.
- Fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme add great flavor but are optional.
- Use flaky sea salt for the best texture and flavor finish.
- For extra softness, brush the focaccia with a little more olive oil after baking.
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Focaccia, easy focaccia bread, Italian bread recipe, savory focaccia, homemade bread, garlic bread, Parmesan focaccia
