Name: Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast; 1½ teaspoons salt; 1½ cups warm water (about 110°F); 1 tablespoon sugar; ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for greasing; 3–4 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or chopped rosemary (optional); Flaky sea salt, for topping

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Introduction

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a wonderfully savory homemade favorite that’s perfect for sharing. Crispy on the edges and soft inside, this Italian classic is infused with fragrant garlic and topped with rich Parmesan cheese for a delightful treat.

A round focaccia bread is cut into six thick square pieces on a wooden board with parchment paper. The bread has a golden-brown, slightly crispy crust with small browned cheese spots on the surface. It is covered with chopped fresh green herbs scattered evenly, along with a sprinkling of grated cheese and coarse salt. The inside of the bread looks soft and airy with visible air pockets. In the background, there are small glass bowls with pale yellow grated cheese and green herbs on a white marbled texture surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast
1½ teaspoons salt
1½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
1 tablespoon sugar
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for greasing
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or chopped rosemary (optional)
Flaky sea salt, for topping

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, stir together the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add the flour and salt, mixing until a sticky dough forms. Knead with a mixer for 5–6 minutes or by hand for 8–10 minutes until smooth.
Step 2: Coat the dough with olive oil, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
Step 3: Grease a 9×13-inch pan. In a small pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil with the minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute), then set aside.
Step 4: Transfer the dough to the prepared pan. Gently press it to the corners. Let it rest for 10 minutes if needed, then stretch to fill the pan. Cover and let it rise for another 30–45 minutes.
Step 5: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Use your fingers to dimple the dough before brushing it with the garlic olive oil. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese, herbs (if using), and flaky sea salt on top. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
Step 6: Allow the focaccia to cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Slice and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add caramelized onions or sun-dried tomatoes on top before baking.
Using fresh rosemary instead of dried herbs gives a vibrant aroma and taste.
Try brushing the finished bread with a little more olive oil for a shiny, moist crust.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it longer, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat slices in a warm oven or toaster oven to restore crispness.

How to Serve

The image shows a round, sliced flatbread on a piece of parchment paper placed on a wooden board. The flatbread has a golden-brown crust with some darker brown spots and is topped with scattered green herbs, small white grains, and light brown toasted bits. Each slice reveals a slightly puffy, soft interior beneath the crisp exterior. There are three small bowls around it, one on a white marbled surface, filled with finely grated white cheese, another with a dark green mixture, and a jar with a dark liquid, along with a bulb of garlic and some fresh green leaves visible nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, but you’ll need to dissolve active dry yeast in warm water and let it activate for about 5-10 minutes before mixing with the other ingredients.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough should roughly double in size and feel light and airy when gently pressed with a finger.