Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite Recipe

There’s nothing quite as comforting as the aroma of freshly baked bread, and when it comes to flavor-packed, crowd-pleasing options, Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite is in a league of its own. Imagine a golden, crisp-edged bread with a pillowy-soft interior, studded with fragrant garlic, nutty Parmesan, and a kiss of herbs. This focaccia is not just a side, but the star of any meal – whether you serve it as a snack, an appetizer, or alongside your favorite entrée. One bite, and you’ll see why friends and family beg for this savory showstopper at every gathering!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be delighted by how straightforward the ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite really are. Each one plays an important role, from creating the bread’s signature chewy crumb to packing in all those addictive, garlicky layers of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need, and why each is so essential:

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the focaccia, ensuring a soft, airy texture that’s sturdy enough to hold its toppings.
• Instant yeast: A speedy leavener that helps the dough rise and become beautifully pillowy.
• Salt: Not just for flavor – it also strengthens the dough and enhances every savory bite.
• Warm water: Activates the yeast and brings the dough together with the perfect consistency.
• Sugar: Just a spoonful to feed the yeast and add a subtle hint of sweetness that balances out the savoriness.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness to the dough, creates that irresistible golden crust, and infuses classic Italian flavor.
• Garlic cloves: The star aromatics – fresh and minced for bold, mouthwatering results.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into golden, nutty pools atop the warm bread for that signature cheesy burst.
• Dried Italian herbs or rosemary (optional): For an herbal boost; just a touch brings earthy complexity to each slice.
• Flaky sea salt: Sprinkled on top for crunch and a final pop of flavor that makes each corner irresistible.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite

Step 1: Mix the Dough

Let’s start with the base! In a large bowl, stir together the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Give it 5 minutes – you’ll soon see a bubbly, foamy surface, which means your yeast is active and ready to go. Add your flour and salt, then mix until a sticky dough forms. This is where the magic happens: knead the dough (either by hand for 8–10 minutes or in a mixer for 5–6 minutes) until it’s smooth, stretchy, and a little tacky. Don’t rush this part – it’s what makes your Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite so airy and satisfying.

Step 2: First Rise

Drizzle your dough with olive oil and turn it gently to coat. This gives you flavor and keeps the dough from drying out. Cover the bowl and let it rest in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours. By the end, the dough should be doubled in size – puffy, soft, and ready to soak up even more deliciousness.

Step 3: Prepare Garlic Oil

While the dough is doing its thing, get out a small pan. Pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and add your minced garlic. Heat gently for just about a minute – you’re aiming for fragrant, not browned. This quick step infuses the oil with deep garlic flavor that will shine through every bite of your focaccia.

Step 4: Stretch and Second Rise

Grease a 9×13-inch pan with olive oil, then transfer your dough into the pan. Gently press and stretch it toward the edges – if it resists, let it relax for 10 minutes and try again. This helps develop those iconic focaccia bubbles! Once it’s filling the pan, cover it and let rise again for 30–45 minutes. This second rise gives Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite that signature light, puffed-up texture.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is the most fun part – poke deep dimples all over the dough with your fingertips, which will hold onto all that gorgeous garlic oil. Brush generously with the garlic oil, then scatter Parmesan cheese, your chosen herbs, and plenty of flaky sea salt right over the top. Pop the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and the edges are crisp and caramelized.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once your focaccia emerges fragrant and golden, let it sit for about 5–10 minutes in the pan. This helps it finish baking and makes it easier to remove. Transfer to a wire rack so the bottom stays crispy, then slice or tear into pieces. Serve warm so every cheesy, garlicky bite is totally irresistible!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite

Garnishes

Up the wow-factor by finishing with a little extra freshly grated Parmesan, a final drizzle of quality olive oil, or a light sprinkle of chopped herbs. Each addition amplifies both the look and aroma, making every piece of Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite even more inviting.

Side Dishes

Pair this focaccia with hearty soups, crisp salads, or a vibrant pasta dish. It’s especially dreamy dunked in tomato soup or served with a classic caprese salad. Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite is also right at home alongside roasted chicken, grilled veggies, or a cheese board.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice into strips for dipping, cube for a rustic bread salad, or use as a sturdy base for open-faced sandwiches. Try making smaller, individual rounds for party snacks or picnics. However you present it, Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite always brings people together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The flavors deepen and the texture stays soft, so Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite is just as crave-worthy the next day.

Freezing

This focaccia freezes like a dream! Slice it into portions, wrap each piece snugly in plastic wrap, and place in a freezer bag. It’ll keep well for up to three months. That way, you always have Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite at your fingertips for last-minute guests or midnight cravings.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven magic, reheat slices in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crisp at the edges. Avoid the microwave, which can make it soggy, and instead use the oven or a toaster oven for the best results.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Absolutely! Just proof active dry yeast in warm water with the sugar until foamy – it might take a few extra minutes, but it works perfectly in this recipe.

Is it possible to add other toppings to the focaccia?

Definitely! Thinly sliced onions, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even a little mozzarella are lovely additions. Just keep toppings light so they don’t weigh down the dough.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The top should be deeply golden and the edges should pull slightly from the pan. For extra assurance, tap the bread – it should sound hollow. If you’re unsure, a quick peek underneath should show a crisp, golden bottom.

What if my dough by resists stretching in the pan?

This is totally normal! Cover the dough and let it relax for 10 minutes, then try again. Resting helps loosen the gluten so it’s easier to stretch out without springing back.

Can I make Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite vegan?

You can! Swap the Parmesan for a vegan cheese or sprinkle with nutritional yeast, and make sure your sugar is vegan. The result is still deliciously garlicky and totally satisfying.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special dinner, or simply to treat yourself, Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread – A Savory Homemade Favorite will quickly become your go-to for its big flavors and simple joy. Give it a try and watch every bite disappear – I promise, this is a recipe you’ll return to again and again!

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