Name: Crispy and Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast; 1¾ cups warm water; 2 teaspoons sugar; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; ¼ cup olive oil; 4 garlic cloves, minced; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

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Introduction

This Crispy and Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a delightful homemade treat that combines a golden crust with rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

A round focaccia bread with a golden brown crust and a soft, fluffy inside, topped with chopped herbs and coarse salt, sliced into several pieces with one piece slightly pulled out to show the airy texture inside. The bread rests directly on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
1¾ cups warm water
2 teaspoons sugar
2 teaspoons kosher salt
¼ cup olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy to proof the yeast.
Step 2: Add the flour, kosher salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours until doubled in size.
Step 3: Mince the garlic and grate the Parmesan cheese while the dough is rising. Once risen, lightly oil a baking pan and transfer the dough into it.
Step 4: Use your fingertips to create dimples all over the surface of the dough. Evenly sprinkle the minced garlic and grated Parmesan on top.
Step 5: Let the dough rise again for 20–30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Step 6: Bake the focaccia for 20–25 minutes until it turns golden brown and crispy on the edges. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, sprinkle fresh rosemary or thyme along with the garlic and Parmesan before baking.
You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese for a different cheesy twist.
If you prefer a softer crust, cover the focaccia with a clean towel immediately after baking to retain moisture.

Storage

Store leftover focaccia wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes to restore crispiness.

How to Serve

A round, golden flatbread is shown with a thick crust covered in melted cheese, small green herb bits, and a light sprinkle of white salt-like grains. It is cut into triangular slices revealing a soft, fluffy inside with a few air pockets. The flatbread sits on a wooden board over a white marbled surface. The crust looks crispy and the cheese on top has a bubbly, slightly browned texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Reduce the proofing time as instant yeast activates faster, and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

How do I make focaccia more flavorful?

Adding fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano enhances the flavor. You can also drizzle extra olive oil over the dough before baking and sprinkle sea salt on top for added taste and texture.