Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread: A Deliciously Easy Recipe to Try Today

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a delightful treat that has a special place in my heart and kitchen. This Italian classic is not just a side dish; it’s a culinary experience that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. The rich aroma of garlic mingling with the nutty flavor of Parmesan cheese creates an irresistible combination that beckons you to take a bite. Historically, focaccia has roots in ancient Roman cuisine, where it was often enjoyed as a flatbread. Today, it has evolved into a beloved staple in many households, and for good reason. People adore this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread for its soft, pillowy texture and the satisfying crunch of its golden crust. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it a perfect addition to family dinners or gatherings with friends. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to impress!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
• ¼ cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling

Preparing the Dough

1. **Mix the Dry Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar. I like to whisk these together to ensure they are evenly distributed. This step is crucial because it helps the yeast activate properly. 2. **Add the Wet Ingredients**: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the warm water and ¼ cup of olive oil. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t worry if it looks a bit messy; that’s perfectly normal! 3. **Knead the Dough**: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed, but be careful not to add too much. 4. **First Rise**: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. I usually turn on my oven for a minute, then turn it off and place the bowl inside to create a warm environment.

Preparing the Garlic Oil

5. **Make the Garlic Oil**: While the dough is rising, prepare the garlic oil. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the minced garlic and about ¼ cup of olive oil. Gently heat the oil until the garlic is fragrant and just starting to turn golden, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. Once done, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

Shaping the Focaccia

6. **Prepare the Baking Pan**: Once the dough has risen, generously oil a 9×13-inch baking pan with olive oil. This will help create a crispy crust. 7. **Shape the Dough**: Gently punch down the risen dough to release the air. Transfer it to the prepared baking pan and stretch it out to fit the pan. If the dough resists stretching, let it rest for a few minutes before trying again. 8. **Create Dents**: Using your fingers, make deep dimples all over the surface of the dough. This is a fun step and helps to hold the garlic oil and toppings later. 9. **Add Garlic Oil**: Drizzle the prepared garlic oil over the surface of the dough, making sure to get some of the garlic pieces in there too. Use a brush or your fingers to spread it evenly across the surface. 10. **Sprinkle with Rosemary and Cheese**: Evenly sprinkle the chopped rosemary and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the dough. The aroma of the rosemary combined with the garlic is simply irresistible! 11. **Second Rise**: Cover the pan with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until it puffs up slightly.

Baking the Focaccia

12. **Preheat the Oven**: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving that perfect golden crust. 13. **Add Flaky Salt**: Just before baking, sprinkle a generous amount of flaky sea salt over the top of the focaccia. This will enhance the flavor and give it that classic focaccia touch. 14. **Bake the Focaccia**: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The smell will fill your kitchen, and you’ll be tempted to sneak a piece! 15. **Cool the Bread**: Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important to prevent

Conclusion:

In summary, this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves the irresistible combination of garlic and cheese. The soft, pillowy texture paired with the rich flavors of garlic and the nutty taste of Parmesan creates a delightful experience that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you serve it as a side dish to your favorite pasta, use it to soak up delicious sauces, or enjoy it on its own with a drizzle of olive oil, this focaccia is sure to impress. Feel free to get creative with your serving suggestions! You can add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist, or even incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or olives for an extra burst of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different cheeses—like mozzarella or feta—to give it your own unique spin. I encourage you to give this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how it turned out for you! Don’t forget to snap a picture and tag me on social media; I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking! Print