Name: Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread: Easy, Savory Comfort Awaits
Prep time: 90 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 145 min
Ingredients: 4 cups All-Purpose Flour (Provides structure for a soft, airy bread.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor; opt for kosher or sea salt for best results.); 2 teaspoons Instant Yeast (Responsible for leavening; ensure it's fresh for optimal rise.); 1/4 cup Olive Oil (Adds moisture and richness; extra virgin is recommended for robust flavor.); 1 1/2 cups Warm Water (Activate yeast; water should be around 110°F (45°C).); 4 cloves Garlic (Infuses the dough with fragrant flavor; fresh, minced garlic offers the best aroma.); 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Adds savory richness; can be swapped with any hard cheese for a different taste.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Herbs (Rosemary or Thyme) (Enhance aroma and taste; feel free to omit or substitute based on availability.); 1 teaspoon Flaky Sea Salt (Used for topping; optional but adds a delightful texture contrast.); 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley or Additional Herbs (Provides visual appeal; a lovely, optional addition before serving.)

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As I stirred the golden dough in my mixing bowl, a delightful aroma filled my kitchen, transporting me straight to the bustling streets of Italy. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread, an easy and incredibly savory treat that’s perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned chefs alike. With minimal kneading and simple ingredients, this focaccia marries the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan into a soft, airy bread that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Not only is it a comforting addition to any meal, but it’s also incredibly versatile—serve it alongside soups, use it for sandwiches, or enjoy it on its own with dips. Are you ready to bake up a slice of Italian heaven in your own kitchen?

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Why is Focaccia a Must-Bake?

Fluffy Texture: This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread will leave you with a light, airy interior that contrasts beautifully with its crispy golden crust.

Beginner-Friendly: Even if you’re new to baking, the simple steps make it easy to whip up this delightful bread without any fuss.

Savory Goodness: The combination of fragrant garlic and rich Parmesan creates an irresistible aroma, perfect for elevating any meal.

Versatile Uses: Enjoy it on its own, pair with your favorite soup, or use it to make sandwiches that will impress friends and family.

Quick and Easy: With fast prep and minimal kneading, you’ll have homemade bread ready in no time—perfect for last-minute gatherings or cozy dinners.

Try serving it with some olive oil for dipping or alongside a comforting bowl of soup to maximize its deliciousness! This bread is sure to become a favorite alongside dishes like Garlic Parmesan Baby Potatoes or Garlic Butter Chicken.

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Ingredients

• Discover how easy it is to create this savory delight!

For the Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for a soft, airy bread.
Salt – Enhances flavor; opt for kosher or sea salt for best results.
Instant Yeast – Responsible for leavening; ensure it’s fresh for optimal rise.
Olive Oil – Adds moisture and richness; extra virgin is recommended for robust flavor.
Warm Water – Activates yeast; water should be around 110°F (45°C) to ensure proper activation.

For the Flavor

Garlic – Infuses the dough with fragrant flavor; fresh, minced garlic offers the best aroma.
Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds savory richness; can be swapped with any hard cheese for a different taste.
Fresh Herbs (Rosemary or Thyme) – Enhance aroma and taste; feel free to omit or substitute based on what you have.
Flaky Sea Salt – Used for topping; optional but adds a delightful texture contrast.

For Garnish

Fresh Parsley or Additional Herbs – Provides visual appeal; a lovely, optional addition before serving.

Now that you’ve gathered all of the ingredients, you’re one step closer to baking delicious Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread that will fill your home with delightful aromas and warm hearts!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread

Step 1: Dough Preparation
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, and instant yeast, stirring until evenly mixed. Gradually add in olive oil and warm water, mixing until a sticky dough forms—about 2-3 minutes. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the dough rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours, until it has doubled in size and feels puffy to the touch.

Step 2: Prepare Pan
While the dough is rising, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with olive oil, ensuring the bottom and sides are well coated. Once the dough has risen, gently transfer it into the prepared baking dish, carefully stretching it to cover the edges while maintaining its height. Let the dough rest for another 30 minutes, allowing it to slightly puff up again.

Step 3: Make Garlic Oil
In a small saucepan, heat ¼ cup of olive oil over low heat. Add the minced garlic and a pinch of salt, cooking until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to allow the flavor to intensify, ensuring the garlic infuses the oil without bitterness.

Step 4: Dimple the Dough
After the dough has rested, use your fingers to create deep dimples all over its surface, about 1 inch apart. Drizzle the prepared garlic oil evenly over the dimples, ensuring every nook is filled with that delicious flavor. Next, sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, and flaky sea salt for that extra crunch.

Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) while you prepare the dough. Once preheated, place the Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown, the crust is crispy, and the cheese is bubbling. Keep an eye on it, as the color should be a lovely deep golden hue.

Step 6: Serve
Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Use a sharp knife to cut it into squares or strips. Serve warm, either on its own, alongside your favorite soup, or with dips like extra virgin olive oil, showcasing the savory delight of your homemade Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread.

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What to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread

Serve up a sensational meal by pairing your warm Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread with delightful accompaniments that elevate every bite.

Savory Soup: A steaming bowl of tomato basil soup adds a comforting touch, perfect for dipping your focaccia into its rich flavors.
Crisp Salad: A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette introduces a zesty crunch, balancing the savory notes of the bread beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables offer a delightful contrast in texture and a colorful addition to your table, making for a wholesome meal.
Marinara Sauce: A side of robust marinara sauce is ideal for dipping, enhancing your focaccia experience with a taste of Italy that’s simply irresistible.
Cheesy Garlic Dip: Creamy garlic dip complements the focaccia’s flavors and adds a luxurious twist—perfect for a cozy gathering or snack.
Wine Pairing: A glass of Pinot Grigio refreshes the palate and enhances the savory notes of your focaccia, making every bite a celebration.

With these tasty pairings, your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread becomes the star attraction, turning any meal into a delightful feast!

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread and make it truly your own!

Whole Wheat Swap: Replace up to 50% of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition.
It’s a wholesome twist that still delivers a delightful texture while raising the nutritional profile.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative instead of Parmesan to keep the same flavor profile without the dairy.
Whether you choose almond-based or coconut-based, this variation caters to lactose-intolerant friends without sacrificing taste!
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or sage for an aromatic experience that elevates the classic taste.
Fresh or dried, these herbs can transform your focaccia into a fragrant Italian delight perfect for pairings!
Spicy Kick: Mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a touch of heat that complements the garlic beautifully.
This will give your focaccia a zing that makes it perfect for serving alongside bold soups or as a stand-alone snack.
Cheesy Variants: Swap out the Parmesan for other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or a creamy Mozzarella for a unique flavor.
Each cheese brings its own character, so don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorites and discover new combinations!
Veggie Twist: Top your dough with sautéed onions, bell peppers, or olives before baking for added flavor and texture.
The combination of sweet and savory adds depth, making your focaccia suitable for any gathering or family dinner.
Garlic & Lemon: For a bright and zesty lift, add lemon zest to your garlic oil before drizzling it over the dough.
It complements the garlic and cheese wonderfully, creating a refreshing burst of flavor with every bite!

This focaccia pairs beautifully with a drizzle of olive oil, and it makes a fabulous accompaniment to meals like Garlic Parmesan Pasta. You might even want to try it with a warm bowl of Garlic Butter Chicken. Happy baking!

Expert Tips for Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread

Check Yeast Freshness: Always check the expiration date on your instant yeast to ensure it works effectively for the best rise in your focaccia.
Mind the Garlic: Be careful not to brown the garlic when infusing it in oil. Overcooking it can lead to a bitter flavor that detracts from your delicious bread.
Avoid Over-Flattening: While stretching the dough into the pan, maintain some height; over-flattening can result in a dense texture rather than a light, airy focaccia.
Oven Monitoring: Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary. Look for a deep golden color on the crust to know it’s perfectly baked.
Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite toppings or substitute the Parmesan for another hard cheese. This flexibility can create unique flavor profiles for your garlic Parmesan focaccia bread!

Make Ahead Options

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness on busy weeknights! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first two steps in the instructions, then covering the container with plastic wrap and refrigerating it to slow the rising process. When you’re ready to bake, simply bring the dough back to room temperature for about 30 minutes before dimpling and topping with garlic oil and cheese. For extra convenience, you can also make the garlic oil and refrigerate it in a sealed container for up to 3 days. By prepping these components ahead, you’ll ensure perfectly delicious focaccia with minimal effort when it’s time to serve!

Storage Tips for Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread

Room Temperature: Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and texture.

Refrigerator: If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to a week; however, be aware that it may lose some of its original crispness.

Freezer: For extended storage, wrap slices of focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, sprinkling a little olive oil to restore crispness.

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Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe FAQs

How can I choose the best ingredients for my Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread?
Absolutely! The quality of your ingredients truly impacts your focaccia. Opt for fresh, high-quality all-purpose flour, good-quality extra virgin olive oil for richness, and fresh minced garlic for optimal flavor. As for cheese, stick with a good Parmesan that has a robust profile; if you want to swap it out, hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano work well too!

How do I store leftover Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread?
After your delightful focaccia is baked and cooled down, you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just remember, refrigerating may make it a tad less crispy, so plan to reheat for that perfect bite!

Can I freeze Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread?
Yes, you can! For freezing, wrap your focaccia tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring it’s sealed well to prevent freezer burn. Place it in a freezer bag, and it can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. A drizzle of olive oil will help bring back that wonderful crispness!

What can I do if my focaccia dough isn’t rising properly?
Very good question! First, ensure that your instant yeast is fresh. If it’s expired or even slightly old, it may lack potency. Also, check the warmth of your water; it should be around 110°F (45°C)—too hot can kill the yeast. For best results, keep your dough in a warm, draft-free spot while it rises. If your kitchen is cool, a warm oven (turned off) can provide a nice environment for rising.

Are there any dietary considerations for Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread?
Yes! If anyone in your household has allergies, be cautious of the ingredients used. The focaccia contains gluten from all-purpose flour, and the traditional recipe includes dairy from Parmesan cheese, which may not be suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals. You can make it gluten-free by substituting with a gluten-free flour blend and using a vegan cheese alternative for a dairy-free option. Enjoy the adjustments!