Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread : Savory & Easy

If you’re looking for a simple and mouthwatering recipe, this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Imagine pulling a warm, golden loaf from the oven, the aroma of garlic and cheese filling the air—it’s pure comfort food! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or just when you want to treat yourself to something special. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that even novice bakers can feel like pros.

What makes this focaccia bread truly special is its fluffy texture and savory flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful bread that pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or as an appetizer on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easily Accessible Ingredients: All you need are pantry staples—no fancy items here!
• Quick Prep Time: Spend just 15 minutes getting everything ready before letting it rise.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy garlic goodness.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Enjoy it as a side dish or make it the star of your meal.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dough ahead of time, so it’s ready when you are!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is all about using wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need:

For the Dough

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 ¾ cups warm water (about 110°F)

For the Topping

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
• Additional olive oil for greasing
• Flaky sea salt for sprinkling
• Fresh parsley or herbs for garnish (optional)

Variations

This recipe offers plenty of room for your creativity! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Herb-Infused Delight: Add more herbs like basil or oregano to enhance the flavor profile.
• Cheesy Twist: Mix in different cheeses like mozzarella or asiago for a gooey surprise.
• Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes if you love a bit of heat.
• Veggie Boost: Top with sun-dried tomatoes or olives for added texture and flavor.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread : Savory & Easy

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and instant yeast. Stir in the olive oil and warm water until a sticky dough forms. This step is crucial because it ensures that the yeast activates properly. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size. Patience is key here; this rising time gives your focaccia its delightful texture!

Step 2: Get Ready to Bake

Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Transfer your risen dough into the pan and gently stretch it to fill the edges. Allow it to rest for another 30 minutes while preparing the topping. This second rise helps develop those airy pockets we all love in focaccia.

Step 3: Infuse with Flavor

In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over low heat and add minced garlic along with a pinch of salt. Cook just until fragrant—be careful not to brown the garlic as it can become bitter. Remove from heat and set aside so that every bite bursts with garlicky goodness.

Step 4: Dimple and Drizzle

Use your fingers to press deep dimples into the dough all over; this creates those signature holes that hold onto toppings beautifully! Drizzle your prepared garlic oil evenly across the surface, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs if using, and flaky sea salt on top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on top. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible! Let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing—this allows flavors to settle.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Cut into squares or strips and serve warm. Trust me—you’ll be amazed at how quickly this delicious Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread disappears from your table!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread : Savory & Easy

Making focaccia bread is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can achieve bakery-quality results right in your kitchen!

• Use high-quality olive oil: A good quality olive oil not only enhances the flavor of the bread but also contributes to its texture. It helps create a crispy crust while keeping the interior soft and fluffy.
• Don’t rush the rising process: Allowing the dough to rise until it’s doubled in size is crucial. This fermentation period develops the flavors and creates that light, airy texture we all love in focaccia.
• Experiment with toppings: While this recipe features garlic and Parmesan, feel free to get creative! Try adding olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even seasonal veggies for a unique twist each time you bake.
• Preheat your oven thoroughly: Ensuring your oven is fully preheated before baking will give your focaccia that perfect golden crust. An adequately heated oven also helps with even cooking throughout.
• Store leftovers properly: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), wrap them in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. You can also freeze pieces for longer storage—just reheat them in the oven before serving!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread : Savory & Easy

Serving your homemade Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread can be just as fun as baking it! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual family meal, there are plenty of ways to present this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped fresh parsley, basil, or thyme sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the bread.
• Balsamic glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the focaccia not only adds visual appeal but also a tangy sweetness that balances the savory notes perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed in a simple vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the focaccia and provide a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots can add more depth to your meal. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory focaccia.
• Olive Tapenade: Serving a small bowl of olive tapenade alongside your focaccia provides a flavorful dip that enhances each bite with briny goodness.
• Soup: Pairing your focaccia with a warm bowl of soup—like tomato basil or minestrone—creates a comforting combination that’s perfect for chilly evenings.

Enjoy every moment spent baking and sharing this delicious Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread! It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or as part of your family meals. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is perfect for meal prep! It’s easy to make in advance and can be stored or frozen for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep your delicious bread fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the focaccia to cool completely.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the focaccia into individual pieces before freezing.
• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual pieces for about 20-30 seconds, but this may soften the crust.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread.

Can I use other types of cheese in this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread?

Absolutely! While Parmesan gives a wonderful flavor, you can substitute it with mozzarella, cheddar, or any cheese you enjoy. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will alter the taste slightly.

How do I make my Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread more herby?

You can easily amp up the herb flavor by adding extra dried herbs like oregano or basil into the dough. Additionally, increase the amount of fresh herbs on top before baking for even more aromatic goodness!

What is the best way to serve Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread?

This focaccia is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. Serve it alongside soups, salads, or as a sandwich base!

Is Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This delicious bread keeps well and can be made ahead of time. Store leftovers or freeze portions for easy meals later on.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll give this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread a try! Its inviting aroma and delightful crunch will make your kitchen feel like a warm Italian bakery. Enjoy making this recipe and sharing it with friends and family—there’s nothing quite like fresh bread enjoyed together. Happy baking!