Name: Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups warm water (about 110°F); 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast; 1 tablespoon sugar; 5 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon salt; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup olive oil (for drizzling); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary); 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt

Jump to Recipe

If you have a craving for a rustic, flavorful bread that radiates warm, herby goodness, then this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is about to become your new go-to comfort food. With its soft, airy crumb, perfectly golden crust, and a delightful punch of garlic and Parmesan cheese that’s nestled into each delicious dimple, this bread is an irresistible crowd-pleaser. It combines the fresh aroma of rosemary with the rich savoriness of Parmesan, making every bite a celebration of texture and taste. Trust me, once you try this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again, whether as a snack, an accompaniment, or even starring in your favorite sandwich.

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is easier than you might think. Each one plays a crucial role in building the bread’s tender texture, fragrant aroma, and vibrant flavor. From the comforting warmth of yeast to the nutty richness of Parmesan and the fresh herbal notes of rosemary, here’s everything you’ll want on hand before you start baking.

2 cups warm water (about 110°F): The perfect temperature to activate the yeast without killing it.
1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast: Your bread’s magical rising agent that gives it that light, airy texture.
1 tablespoon sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle hint of sweetness.
5 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base for your dough that creates the perfect chew.
1 tablespoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the dough.
1/4 cup olive oil (plus more for drizzling): Keeps the bread moist while adding a smooth richness and that signature Mediterranean touch.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Packs the focaccia with bold, aromatic flavor.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into pockets of savory goodness in every bite.
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried): Adds a fresh, piney brightness that complements the garlic beautifully.
1 teaspoon coarse sea salt: Sprinkled on top for crunchy bursts of flavor and visual appeal.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by combining warm water, yeast, and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Let this mixture sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy on top. This step is crucial because it tells you that your yeast is alive and ready to give your focaccia its light, fluffy texture.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Once your yeast mixture is frothy, add the flour, salt, and 1/4 cup of olive oil. Stir everything together until it forms a sticky dough. Don’t worry if it feels a bit tacky—it should be on the softer side to ensure a tender loaf.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn your dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5 to 7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Alternatively, if you have a stand mixer with a dough hook, let it work its magic for about 5 minutes. Kneading develops gluten, giving your focaccia its characteristic chewy yet airy crumb.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Place your kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and set it somewhere warm. Let it rise until it doubles in size, usually about 1 to 2 hours. This rise is where the yeast bubbles form, creating all those lovely air pockets in your bread.

Step 5: Prepare the Dough for Baking

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease a 13×18-inch baking sheet generously with olive oil. Punch down the risen dough to release excess air, then stretch and press it out onto your baking tray. Use your fingertips to create those signature dimples all over the surface, which trap olive oil and toppings perfectly.

Step 6: Add Flavors and Bake

Drizzle olive oil over the dough, then sprinkle the minced garlic, grated Parmesan, chopped rosemary, and coarse sea salt on top. Let the dough rest for another 20 to 30 minutes to puff slightly while the oven heats up. Bake it for 20 to 25 minutes until it turns gloriously golden brown. Let it cool just a bit before slicing to enjoy the full Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread experience.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread

Garnishes

While the focaccia is already bursting with flavor, finishing it with fresh garnishes can elevate the experience. Try scattering some extra fresh rosemary or a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving for a beautiful aromatic boost. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on warm slices also makes the flavor pop irresistibly.

Side Dishes

This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a stellar companion to salads, soups, and stews. Its richness pairs beautifully with a bowl of minestrone or alongside a fresh, tangy Caprese salad. It’s also fantastic when served with savory dips like olive tapenade or a roasted red pepper spread for a simple yet impressive appetizer.

Creative Ways to Present

Give your focaccia a culinary twist by slicing it horizontally and layering it with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a rustic Italian sandwich. Or use chunks as croutons in hearty salads or creamy soups. For a party, cut it into small squares and serve alongside a charcuterie board, making the Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread the star of your spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain its softness while preventing it from drying out.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this focaccia later, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months without losing its delightful texture or flavor.

Reheating

To revive your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the bread for about 10 minutes. This will bring back the crispiness of the crust and the tender chew inside, making it taste freshly baked again.

FAQs

Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh in this recipe?

Absolutely! If fresh rosemary isn’t available, dried rosemary works well too—just use about one teaspoon, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

What if I don’t have a baking sheet that large enough for the dough?

You can divide the dough into two smaller pans or use a rimmed baking sheet that holds the same amount. The focaccia may be a bit thicker but will still bake beautifully.

Is it possible to make this focaccia bread gluten-free?

This recipe relies on the gluten in all-purpose flour to develop structure and chew. For gluten-free options, you’ll want to experiment with specialized gluten-free bread flour blends, but the texture will be different.

Can I add other toppings besides garlic and Parmesan?

Definitely! Roasted cherry tomatoes, olives, caramelized onions, or even sliced sun-dried tomatoes all make excellent toppings that complement the garlic and Parmesan flavors.

How do I know when the focaccia bread is fully baked?

It should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. The internal temperature should reach about 190°F (88°C) for perfect doneness.

Final Thoughts

Baking this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is one of those kitchen adventures that rewards you with a warm, fragrant loaf that’s just bursting with flavor and texture. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or savoring it yourself with a drizzle of olive oil, this bread offers comfort and joy in every bite. Don’t hesitate to try the recipe—you might just discover your new favorite way to bring homemade bread magic to your table!

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 12 reviews

Author: Marina
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Yield: 12 servings (slices) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a deliciously fluffy and flavorful Italian bread, infused with fragrant garlic, fresh rosemary, and topped with savory Parmesan cheese. Perfect as a side dish or for sandwiches, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients and yields a golden, crispy crust with a soft interior.

Instructions

Activate Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
Make the Dough: Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and 1/4 cup olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a sticky dough starts to form.
Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for about 5 minutes.
First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and allow it to rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 13×18-inch baking sheet with olive oil.
Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet. Using your fingers, stretch and press the dough to fit the pan, then create dimples all over the surface with your fingertips.
Add Toppings: Drizzle the dough generously with olive oil. Sprinkle the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh rosemary, and coarse sea salt evenly over the top.
Second Rise: Let the prepared dough rest for an additional 20-30 minutes while the oven finishes preheating.
Bake: Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.
Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the focaccia to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

For best results, use fresh active dry yeast and ensure your water is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
You can substitute fresh rosemary with dried rosemary, but fresh will provide better flavor.
Feel free to add other toppings like olives, cherry tomatoes, or caramelized onions for variation.
Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
Using a stand mixer with a dough hook saves effort during kneading but hand kneading provides better control over dough consistency.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian