Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe

Oh, I just have to tell you about this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe that has quickly become one of my all-time favorites. It’s the kind of bread that fills your kitchen with the most incredible aroma—and once you pull it fresh from the oven, you’ll find it’s perfectly golden, soft inside, with that gorgeous garlicky Parmesan crust that’s just irresistible. I love this recipe because it’s so straightforward, but it feels like a real treat that could elevate any meal or stand beautifully on its own as a snack.

Whether you’re planning to serve it at a family dinner, use it as a base for sandwiches, or just want something comforting during the week, this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe works like a charm. It’s versatile, and you don’t need fancy ingredients to pull it off. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together so well because each one plays a special role, from the warm water waking up the yeast to that hit of Parmesan cheese adding depth and richness. You don’t need anything exotic; really, just a handful of basics that you might already have sitting around.

• All-purpose flour: Using unbleached flour gives the bread a better texture and more natural flavor.
• Dry active yeast: This is what helps the bread rise beautifully; be sure your yeast is fresh for best results.
• Sugar: Just a touch to feed the yeast and aid in browning.
• Salt: Enhances flavor and controls the yeast during rising.
• Dry minced garlic: Gives that unmistakable garlic punch without the moisture that could mess with dough consistency.
• Warm water: Make sure it’s lukewarm to wake the yeast without killing it.
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps create that tender crumb and crispy crust.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly shredded is best for that nutty, salty finish.
• Dried parsley: Just a sprinkle for color and a subtle herbal note.

Variations

I love switching things up depending on the mood or what I have on hand, and you should definitely feel free to do the same! This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe is a fantastic blank canvas for flavor experiments.

• Herb Lovers’ Variation: I sometimes add fresh rosemary or thyme along with the parsley—it makes the bread smell like a dream and complements the garlic beautifully.
• Spicy Twist: Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes on top before baking gives it a nice little kick that my family goes crazy for.
• Vegan Option: Swap Parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese to keep it plant-based without losing the cheesy flavor.
• Olive Swap: Try a flavored olive oil, like lemon or basil olive oil, for an extra layer of aroma and taste.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe

Step 1: Mix and Proof Your Dough

Start by stirring together your flour, dry active yeast, sugar, salt, and that wonderful dry minced garlic in a big bowl. Then pour in your warm water and olive oil, mixing until everything is incorporated and the dough feels shaggy but coming together. Cover it up with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it sit somewhere warm—this is key! I like to put mine near the oven or on top of the fridge—and wait for about 30 to 45 minutes until the dough doubles in size. It’s like magic watching it puff up!

Step 2: Shape and Season

Once your dough has risen, generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil. Tip the dough out and use your fingertips to press it evenly to the edges—you want those characteristic dimples all over! This isn’t just for looks; those dimples help trap olive oil and toppings, giving delicious pockets of flavor. Drizzle more olive oil over the surface, sprinkle the Parmesan, dried parsley, and a little extra salt, then cover it again and let it rest while you preheat the oven.

Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). When it’s ready, uncover the dough and pop it in for about 30 minutes. You’ll want to look for a golden crust that smells intoxicating—you’ll know it’s done when the top is crisp and slightly browned. Let it cool for about 10 minutes so it sets up nicely before slicing and serving. This cooling step is key to avoid bread that’s too gummy!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe

Garnishes

I often sprinkle a little extra parmesan right as it comes out of the oven and a handful of fresh chopped herbs like basil, rosemary, or even a little fresh cracked black pepper. It adds a fresh, vibrant touch and makes the bread feel just a bit fancier—even on a casual night.

Side Dishes

I love pairing this focaccia with a rich tomato soup or a big fresh salad. Sometimes, when I’m feeling indulgent, I serve it alongside pasta dishes like spaghetti Bolognese or a creamy Alfredo—the garlic and cheese notes in the bread complement those sauces so well!

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I’ve sliced the focaccia into little squares and served them with dipping bowls of olive oil mixed with balsamic vinegar or herb-infused oils. It’s always a crowd-pleaser! I also like weaving in colored herbs or garlic butter brushing for holiday versions—it looks stunning and tastes just as good.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftovers wrapped tightly in foil or in an airtight container at room temperature. It usually stays fresh for about 2 days, but if you plan to keep it longer, popping it in the fridge helps—just be sure to warm it slightly before eating to bring back softness.

Freezing

This focaccia freezes beautifully! Once fully cooled, I slice it and wrap pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When I want a treat, I just thaw the slices at room temp and warm them up in the oven or toaster oven for that fresh-baked feeling.

Reheating

I like to reheat slices in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes—it crisps the crust back up without drying out the inside. Avoid microwaving if you can; it tends to make focaccia chewy rather than delightfully soft and tender.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe turns out every single time—it’s one of those comforting homemade breads that fills the home with warmth and delicious smells. I used to struggle getting focaccia just right, but this recipe and these tips made it so approachable and reliable. Trust me, once you bake this for your family or friends, you’ll be handing out slices like a pro baker and wondering why you didn’t start sooner!

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe

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• Author: Jessica
• Prep Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 pieces
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread recipe offers a deliciously soft and airy homemade bread infused with fragrant garlic, sprinkled with savory Parmesan cheese, and aromatic parsley. Perfect as a side for any meal or for making flavorful sandwiches, this focaccia combines simple ingredients with easy preparation and baking for a satisfying Italian-inspired treat.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 3 cups unbleached all purpose flour
• 2 1/4 teaspoons dry active yeast (1 package)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt, plus more for topping
• 1 tablespoon dry minced garlic

Wet Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for topping

Toppings

• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

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Instructions

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, dry active yeast, sugar, salt, and dry minced garlic. Stir the mixture well to evenly distribute all the dry components.
2. Add Wet Ingredients and Form Dough: Pour the warm water and olive oil into the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until a smooth dough forms that incorporates all the ingredients.
3. Let Dough Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap, then place in a warm spot. Let the dough rise for 30-45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size, indicating proper fermentation.
4. Shape Dough in Baking Dish: Oil a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil. Transfer the risen dough into the dish and spread it out evenly, pushing it to the edges. Using your fingertips, create dimples all over the dough surface for characteristic focaccia texture.
5. Add Toppings: Drizzle about one tablespoon of olive oil over the dough. Sprinkle evenly with Parmesan cheese, dried parsley, and additional salt to taste. Cover the dish and return it to the warm area for a short rest.
6. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the dough rests.
7. Bake the Focaccia: Remove the cover and bake the dough in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and cooked through.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the focaccia to rest and cool in the baking dish for 10 minutes before slicing into approximately 12 pieces for serving.

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Notes

• Use warm water not exceeding 110°F (43°C) to activate the yeast without killing it.
• Allowing the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free environment ensures the best rise.
• Dimpling the dough helps create the classic focaccia texture, holding the olive oil and toppings well.
• Feel free to customize the toppings with herbs like rosemary or add sliced olives for variation.
• Serve slightly warm to enjoy the soft, flavorful texture at its best.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece (1/12th of recipe)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 1.5 g
• Sodium: 280 mg
• Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 26 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg