Name: Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons sugar; 2 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C); 1/4 cup olive oil (plus extra for drizzling); 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional); Salt, to taste; Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; Extra grated Parmesan for garnish

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If you’re daydreaming of warm, rustic Italian bread with a garlicky aroma wafting through your kitchen, this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe is about to become your signature bake. With its golden, crispy crust and tender, pillowy interior, every bite bursts with the rich flavors of olive oil, savory Parmesan, and fresh garlic. Whether you’re a seasoned bread maker or just getting started, this recipe is approachable, full of flavor, and destined to impress—perfect for an easy weeknight side or a show-stopping party platter.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe lies in its handful of humble, high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a role—from structure and flavor to that irresistible golden crust—and together, they create a bread you’ll want to make again and again.

All-purpose flour: Provides the perfect base for soft, chewy focaccia with a delicate crumb—don’t substitute for bread flour here!
Salt: Essential for deep flavor in the dough and seasoning on top—don’t be shy, but taste as you go.
Sugar: Just a little helps the yeast activate and adds that subtle sweetness in every bite.
Active dry yeast: This gives the bread the rise and airy texture focaccia is known for—always check the expiration on your packet for best results.
Warm water: At about 110°F, it wakes up the yeast and starts the dough off right—too hot or cold and your rise will suffer.
Olive oil: Both in the dough and for drizzling, it lends a rich flavor and helps achieve that golden, crusty exterior.
Fresh rosemary (optional): A classic Italian herb with piney notes that pairs beautifully with garlic and cheese.
Garlic: Minced fresh for punchy, aromatic flavor—don’t be afraid to add a little more if you’re a garlic lover.
Grated Parmesan cheese: The star ingredient that adds nutty saltiness and helps crisp up the top.
Olive oil (again!): This second addition gives the topping its richness and helps the flavors infuse the bread.
Dried oregano (optional): Adds a subtle Mediterranean note and extra depth to the finishing drizzle.
Salt, to taste: Sprinkled on top before baking for that final burst of flavor.
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste: A little pepper brightens up all the rich flavors.
Extra grated Parmesan: For an irresistible cheesy garnish once the focaccia comes out of the oven.

How to Make

Step 1: Mix the Dough

Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in your flour, salt, sugar, and active dry yeast. Give it a quick stir to combine everything evenly—you want all those flavors working together from the start. Slowly stream in the warm water and 1/4 cup of olive oil, stirring as you go, until the dough comes together. If it feels a little shaggy at first, don’t worry; it’ll smooth out as you knead.

Step 2: Knead Until Smooth and Elastic

Turn your dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it by hand for about 5 to 7 minutes. This is a great time to get in touch with your inner Italian nonna! The dough should become smooth, elastic, and spring back when pressed. Resist the urge to add too much extra flour—stick with it, and soon you’ll have the perfect focaccia base.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Transfer your lovely dough to a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This slow, gentle rise is what gives your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe that beautiful airy texture, so be patient and let it do its thing.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, give it a gentle punch to release excess air, then put it in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or sheet pan. Use your fingers—no need for a rolling pin here!—to gently press and stretch the dough to fill the pan. Little dimples and uneven spots are traditional and actually help create that classic texture.

Step 5: Add the Topping and Second Rise

In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, grated Parmesan, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, oregano (if using), salt, and pepper. Drizzle this gorgeous, aromatic mixture over the dough, then use your fingers to press it in and make more dimples. Cover again and let sit for 15 to 20 minutes so the dough puffs up slightly. This lets the flavors soak right into the bread, infusing every bite.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while your focaccia rises. Once it’s ready, slide the pan into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the top turns a glorious golden brown and the edges are deliciously crispy. You’ll know it’s done when your whole kitchen smells like an Italian bakery.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Once out of the oven, drizzle a little extra olive oil over the top and shower your focaccia with a final sprinkle of grated Parmesan. Let it cool just enough for easy slicing and serve warm—or enjoy at room temperature for a hearty, flavorful snack that’s impossible to resist.

How to Serve

The finishing touches can elevate your focaccia from everyday to extraordinary. I love to toss on a handful of extra chopped fresh rosemary, a generous grating of Parmesan, and a few turns of black pepper right after baking. Even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt makes this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe truly pop, both in flavor and looks.

Side Dishes

This focaccia happily shares the stage with almost any meal. Dip slices into a simple olive oil and balsamic vinegar mix, serve alongside a robust minestrone soup, or pair with fresh tomato salad. It’s equally happy cozying up to creamy pasta dishes, grilled vegetables, or antipasto platters for a complete Mediterranean-inspired spread.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, try cutting your focaccia bread into smaller squares and serving on a rustic wooden board alongside Italian meats, cheeses, and marinated olives. For an appetizer twist, create little focaccia “sandwiches” stuffed with roasted veggies or fresh mozzarella and basil. And if you’re feeling playful, turn slices into chic bread “sticks” for dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers from your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe tightly wrapped in foil or an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The bread stays soft and flavorful, and a quick toast revives its irresistible crust.

Freezing

Focaccia is perfect for freezing! Let the bread cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil or place in a freezer-safe bag. It keeps beautifully in the freezer for up to three months, ready to transform any meal in minutes.

Reheating

To bring your focaccia back to life, simply pop slices into a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5–10 minutes, or until warmed through and the edges turn crispy again. For extra freshness, drizzle with a touch of olive oil before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Absolutely! Instant yeast works just as well in the Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe. You can skip the activation step; just mix it in with your dry ingredients and follow the instructions as written. Your rise time may be a little shorter, so keep an eye on the dough.

What’s the best way to ensure my focaccia is crispy on top and soft inside?

The key is a well-oiled pan, lots of olive oil drizzled over the top before baking, and not overbaking. Bake just until golden brown for that signature crunchy crust while the inside stays beautifully tender.

Can I add other toppings or herbs?

Definitely! This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe loves a sprinkle of fresh or dried herbs like thyme, basil, or even chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Add thinly sliced onions, olives, or extra cheese to make it your own.

Is this recipe OK to make ahead for a party?

Yes! You can prepare and bake the focaccia a day in advance. Store it at room temperature and reheat in the oven before serving for that just-baked flavor and texture—all your guests will swoon.

How thick should I make the dough in the pan?

Spread the dough about 3/4- to 1-inch thick for classic focaccia. This gives you a sturdy, bready slice that’s still light and airy inside. If you like it thinner or thicker, just adjust your pan and watch your bake time accordingly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a bread that’s comforting, quick to pull together, and bursting with flavor, this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe is your answer. Give it a try and discover just how easy and rewarding homemade bread can be—your kitchen (and your taste buds) will thank you!