Garlic Parmesan Focaccia – Quick, Savory & Soft Inside | Foolproof Homemade Bread Recipe

🎉 Introduction

There’s something irresistible about the aroma of freshly baked focaccia bread — golden, crisp on the edges, yet soft and airy inside, infused with the rich flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs. This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia recipe is the ultimate quick bread for those who crave a savory, feast-worthy side dish without complicated techniques.

Perfect for pairing with soups, salads, pasta dishes, or simply dipping in olive oil, this recipe combines simple pantry ingredients with a foolproof method that delivers a professional bakery-style loaf right from your kitchen. The best part? It’s easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough to serve at any gathering.

🧰 Equipment Needed

Before diving into baking, gather these essential kitchen tools:

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Wooden spoon or dough whisk
• Plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel
• 9×13-inch baking pan or sheet pan
• Pastry brush (for oiling)
• Sharp chef’s knife (for garlic)
• Small bowl (for mixing toppings)

🛒 Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Garlic Parmesan Focaccia:

Fruits & Vegetables:

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian herbs or dried rosemary

Culinary Aids & Spices:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• Flaky sea salt for topping (to taste)

Oils & Vinegars:

• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for greasing)

Dairy Products:

• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Liquids:

• 1½ cups warm water (around 110°F / 45°C)

👩‍🍳 Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar.
• Pour in the warm water and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
• Mix using a wooden spoon until a shaggy, sticky dough forms.
• Knead gently in the bowl for about 2-3 minutes until the dough becomes smoother but still soft.

Step 2: First Rise

• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
• Let the dough rise at room temperature for 45-60 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Pan

• Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with olive oil.
• Once risen, transfer the dough to the prepared pan.
• Using your fingers, gently stretch and press the dough to fill the entire pan.
• Cover again loosely and let it rest for another 20 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Topping

• In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, Italian herbs or dried rosemary, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
• Stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Dimple and Top the Dough

• After the second rise, use your fingertips to press deep dimples across the surface of the dough.
• Spoon the garlic-herb mixture evenly over the top.
• Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese and finish with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are crispy.
• Optional: For a more golden top, broil on high for an extra 1-2 minutes—keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

• Remove from the oven and let the focaccia cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes.
• Transfer to a cutting board, slice into squares or strips, and serve warm.

🍽️ Servings & Timing

• Servings: 8-10 pieces
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Rise Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (total)
• Bake Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

🧊 Storage & Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap slices in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating Instructions:
  • Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes until warmed through.
  • Toaster Oven: Toast slices until crispy on the edges.
  • Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes for a crunchy exterior.

🥄 Variations

Here are some tasty ways to personalize your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia:

• Cheese Lover’s Focaccia: Add a layer of shredded mozzarella or provolone before baking.
• Olive & Herb Focaccia: Scatter sliced black or green olives on top before baking.
• Spicy Chili Flake Version: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Twist: Add finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the topping mixture.
• Fresh Basil Topping: Garnish with chopped fresh basil after baking for an herby freshness.
• Whole Wheat Option: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.

❓ 10 FAQs

1. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, but dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar and let it proof for 5-10 minutes before adding to the flour mixture.

2. How do I get larger air pockets in the focaccia?

Handle the dough gently and avoid overworking it after the first rise to maintain air bubbles.

3. Can I make this dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dough and refrigerate overnight for a cold fermentation. Bring to room temperature before baking.

4. Can I skip the Parmesan cheese?

Yes, but the Parmesan adds a savory depth. You can substitute with other cheeses like asiago or grana padano.

5. Can I make focaccia without a baking pan?

Yes, you can use a sheet pan lined with parchment paper, but the bread may spread out more and be thinner.

6. Can I make this gluten-free?

Use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for yeast breads.

7. What’s the best way to serve focaccia?

Serve it as a side with pasta dishes, soups, salads, or enjoy it as a sandwich base.

8. How can I make the focaccia more crispy?

Add a little extra olive oil in the pan and bake on a lower rack to ensure a crisp bottom crust.

9. Can I add fresh garlic on top instead of minced?

Yes, thinly slice fresh garlic cloves and press them into the dough dimples before baking.

10. How long does focaccia stay fresh?

It’s best enjoyed the same day but stays fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature or 5 days refrigerated.

🏁 Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia is a true showstopper—crispy edges, fluffy interior, and bursting with rich garlic and herb flavors. It’s quick, beginner-friendly, and delivers bakery-quality results with minimal effort. Perfect for casual weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or festive feasts, this focaccia recipe will earn a permanent spot in your bread-baking rotation.

With endless variations and a foolproof method, you’ll never need to buy store-bought focaccia again. Get ready to impress everyone with your homemade, golden, savory creation!

Adam

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia – Quick, Savory & Soft Inside | Foolproof Homemade Bread Recipe

There’s something irresistible about the aroma of freshly baked focaccia bread — golden, crisp on the edges, yet soft and airy inside, infused with the rich flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs. This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia recipe is the ultimate quick bread for those who crave a savory, feast-worthy side dish without complicated techniques. Perfect for pairing with soups, salads, pasta dishes, or simply dipping in olive oil, this recipe combines simple pantry ingredients with a foolproof method that delivers a professional bakery-style loaf right from your kitchen. The best part? It’s easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough to serve at any gathering.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Rest & Bake Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 5 minutes mins

Servings: 10 pieces

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Garlic Parmesan Focaccia:

Fruits & Vegetables:

• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian herbs or dried rosemary

Culinary Aids & Spices:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast 1 packet
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• Flaky sea salt for topping to taste

Oils & Vinegars:

• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil plus more for greasing

Dairy Products:

• ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated

Liquids:

• 1½ cups warm water around 110°F / 45°C

Equipment

• Before diving into baking, gather these essential kitchen tools:
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Wooden spoon or dough whisk
• Plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel
• 9×13-inch baking pan or sheet pan
• Pastry brush (for oiling)
• Sharp chef’s knife (for garlic)
• Small bowl (for mixing toppings)

Method

 

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar.
2. Pour in the warm water and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
3. Mix using a wooden spoon until a shaggy, sticky dough forms.
4. Knead gently in the bowl for about 2-3 minutes until the dough becomes smoother but still soft.

Step 2: First Rise

1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
2. Let the dough rise at room temperature for 45-60 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Pan

1. Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with olive oil.
2. Once risen, transfer the dough to the prepared pan.
3. Using your fingers, gently stretch and press the dough to fill the entire pan.
4. Cover again loosely and let it rest for another 20 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, Italian herbs or dried rosemary, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
2. Stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Dimple and Top the Dough

1. After the second rise, use your fingertips to press deep dimples across the surface of the dough.
2. Spoon the garlic-herb mixture evenly over the top.
3. Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese and finish with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are crispy.
3. Optional: For a more golden top, broil on high for an extra 1-2 minutes—keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

1. Remove from the oven and let the focaccia cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes.
2. Transfer to a cutting board, slice into squares or strips, and serve warm.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Room Temperature: Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing: Wrap slices in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions:

Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes until warmed through.

Toaster Oven: Toast slices until crispy on the edges.

Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes for a crunchy exterior.

🥄 Variations
Here are some tasty ways to personalize your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia:

Cheese Lover’s Focaccia: Add a layer of shredded mozzarella or provolone before baking.

Olive & Herb Focaccia: Scatter sliced black or green olives on top before baking.

Spicy Chili Flake Version: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Sun-Dried Tomato Twist: Add finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the topping mixture.

Fresh Basil Topping: Garnish with chopped fresh basil after baking for an herby freshness.

Whole Wheat Option: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.

❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, but dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar and let it proof for 5-10 minutes before adding to the flour mixture.

2. How do I get larger air pockets in the focaccia?
Handle the dough gently and avoid overworking it after the first rise to maintain air bubbles.

3. Can I make this dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dough and refrigerate overnight for a cold fermentation. Bring to room temperature before baking.

4. Can I skip the Parmesan cheese?
Yes, but the Parmesan adds a savory depth. You can substitute with other cheeses like asiago or grana padano.

5. Can I make focaccia without a baking pan?
Yes, you can use a sheet pan lined with parchment paper, but the bread may spread out more and be thinner.

6. Can I make this gluten-free?
Use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for yeast breads.

7. What’s the best way to serve focaccia?
Serve it as a side with pasta dishes, soups, salads, or enjoy it as a sandwich base.

8. How can I make the focaccia more crispy?
Add a little extra olive oil in the pan and bake on a lower rack to ensure a crisp bottom crust.

9. Can I add fresh garlic on top instead of minced?
Yes, thinly slice fresh garlic cloves and press them into the dough dimples before baking.

10. How long does focaccia stay fresh?
It’s best enjoyed the same day but stays fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature or 5 days refrigerated.

🏁 Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia is a true showstopper—crispy edges, fluffy interior, and bursting with rich garlic and herb flavors. It’s quick, beginner-friendly, and delivers bakery-quality results with minimal effort. Perfect for casual weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or festive feasts, this focaccia recipe will earn a permanent spot in your bread-baking rotation.

With endless variations and a foolproof method, you’ll never need to buy store-bought focaccia again. Get ready to impress everyone with your homemade, golden, savory creation!