Dinner

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread Recipe

Byluca Carter January 15, 2026January 15, 2026

Introduction

Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is a delightful homemade treat that combines the rich flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs in a soft, airy bread. Perfect as a snack or a side, this savory focaccia is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

The image shows a round focaccia bread with four triangular pieces cut and slightly separated. The focaccia has a golden-brown crust on top with small dimples filled with oil and sprinkled green herbs, such as parsley, along with coarse salt flakes and black pepper. The inside looks soft, light, and fluffy, with a creamy white color. It rests on a rustic wooden board placed on a white marbled surface. Around the board are small bowls with green sauce, grated cheese, and thyme sprigs. The photo was 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 warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour and salt, then mix 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 minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Set aside the garlic oil.
Step 4: Transfer the dough to the prepared pan. Gently press it to the corners. If the dough resists, let it rest for 10 minutes then finish stretching. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
Step 5: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Use your fingers to dimple the dough. Brush the surface with the garlic oil, then sprinkle evenly with Parmesan cheese, herbs (if using), and flaky sea salt.

Step 6: Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the focaccia is golden brown. Cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For added flavor, try using fresh rosemary instead of dried herbs.
If you prefer a softer crust, brush the focaccia with a little extra olive oil immediately after baking.

You can add olives or sun-dried tomatoes on top before baking for a tasty variation.

Storage

Store focaccia bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat by warming in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes to restore crispness.

How to Serve

The image shows a round, thick flatbread cut into four large pieces, placed on a wooden board. The flatbread has a golden brown top with melted cheese that looks creamy and slightly bubbly. It is sprinkled with chopped green herbs, likely parsley or chives, adding a fresh green touch. The bread surface has a soft, slightly fluffy texture with small browned spots. Around the board, there are small bowls with grated cheese and green herbs, all set on a white marbled surface. 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, you can use active dry yeast. Just dissolve it in the warm water with sugar and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy before adding the flour.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough should roughly double in size and feel puffy. You can gently press it with your finger; if the indentation remains, the dough is ready for the next step.