The Best Garlic Parmesan Focaccia You’ll Ever Bake Recipe

Introduction

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia is a golden, fluffy bread bursting with the savory flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil. This homemade Italian classic is perfect as a side for soups, salads, or pasta, or simply enjoyed on its own warm and fresh from the oven.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 3 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for brushing
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme, optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it stand for 5–10 minutes until the mixture is foamy, indicating the yeast is activated.
2. Step 2: Add the flour, salt, and 3 tablespoons of olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and slightly sticky.
3. Step 3: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Step 4: Transfer the dough to a greased baking pan and press it out evenly. Use your fingers to dimple the surface deeply, then drizzle lightly with more olive oil.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs evenly over the top of the dough.
6. Step 6: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and crisp around the edges.
7. Step 7: Remove from the oven, brush with additional olive oil if desired, and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving warm.

Tips & Variations

• Use warm water at about 110°F to activate the yeast properly; too hot or cold water will affect rising.
• Press your fingers deeply into the dough to create pockets that hold olive oil and flavor.
• Add minced garlic or herbs to the dough itself for extra aroma and taste.
• Try topping with sliced cherry tomatoes, olives, or caramelized onions for a veggie twist.
• For a cheesy variation, mix shredded mozzarella or cheddar with the Parmesan before baking.
• Brush lightly with olive oil before reheating to restore freshness and shine.

Storage

Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container or wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze slices in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating. Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to refresh the texture; avoid microwaving to prevent chewiness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast using the same amount. Simply mix it directly with the dry ingredients and skip the proofing step.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

Check that your yeast is fresh and your water is lukewarm, around 110°F. Too hot or expired yeast will prevent proper rising. Make sure the dough is kept in a warm, draft-free spot while rising.

The Best Garlic Parmesan Focaccia You’ll Ever Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 87 reviews

This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia is golden, fluffy, and full of garlicky, cheesy goodness. With a soft inside, crisp edges, and a rich olive oil flavor, it’s the perfect side for soups, salads, or pasta — or simply delicious on its own!

• Author: lea
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Dinners
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Dough Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for brushing

Toppings

• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme, optional)

Instructions

1. Activate Yeast: Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy to ensure the yeast is active and ready for dough formation.
2. Make Dough: Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture, then stir in 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic, which develops the gluten for structure.
3. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 45 minutes or until it has doubled in size, ensuring a light and airy texture.
4. Shape & Top: Spread the risen dough evenly onto a greased baking pan. Use your fingertips to dimple the surface, creating signature pockets that will hold olive oil and garlic flavor. Drizzle lightly with olive oil, then sprinkle minced garlic, grated Parmesan, and fresh herbs evenly over the top.
5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the focaccia for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are crisp, indicating that it is perfectly cooked through.
6. Serve: Remove from oven and optionally brush with extra olive oil for additional flavor and shine. Allow to cool slightly before slicing into squares or wedges and serve warm for the best taste and texture.

Notes

• For extra flavor, mix minced garlic into the dough before the first rise.
• Use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for the best taste and aroma.
• Let the bread cool slightly before slicing to maintain a soft, fluffy interior.
• Water temperature should be around 110°F to activate yeast without killing it.
• Do not skip dimpling the dough to create the characteristic focaccia texture and flavor pockets.
• Allow the dough to properly rise to avoid dense bread.

Keywords: Comfort Food, easy baking, focaccia, garlic bread, Homemade Bread, Italian recipes, Parmesan, quick bread recipe, savory bread