Focaccia Pizza

Nothing beats the warm, crispy, and fluffy charm of Focaccia Pizza. This delightful Italian-inspired creation offers the perfect combination of soft, olive-oil-rich focaccia bread topped with vibrant ingredients, resulting in an irresistible meal that’s easy to prepare and share. Whether you want a simple weeknight dinner or a star dish for your next gathering, focaccia pizza recipes bring vibrant flavors and textures that will satisfy every craving – all without the hassle of traditional pizza dough.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The base uses focaccia dough which is simpler and faster to prepare than traditional pizza dough.
• Versatile Flavors: Customize toppings endlessly, from fresh herbs to gourmet cheeses and savory meats.
• Perfect Texture: Combines a pleasing crunch on the outside with a soft, airy inside that melts in your mouth.
• Ideal for Sharing: Cuts into rustic squares perfect for parties, family dinners, or casual get-togethers.
• Great for Leftovers: Holds up well when stored and reheated, making it a convenient option for busy days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting the perfect focaccia pizza starts with simple yet flavorful ingredients that work harmoniously together. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering that classic crisp exterior, tender crumb, and rich flavor.

• Flour: Use all-purpose or bread flour to create a chewy, elastic dough foundation.
• Yeast: Provides the rise and the airy texture essential for focaccia bread.
• Olive Oil: A key ingredient for moisture, flavor, and that signature crispy crust.
• Water: Lukewarm water helps activate yeast and blend the dough perfectly.
• Salt: Enhances all flavors and balances the dough’s taste.
• Fresh Herbs: Rosemary, thyme, or basil add fragrant aroma and color.
• Toppings: Think sun-dried tomatoes, olives, mozzarella, caramelized onions, or even prosciutto for an all-star finish.
• Sea Salt Flakes: Sprinkled on top before baking to add a delightful crunch and flavor burst.

Variations for Focaccia Pizza

One of the best parts about focaccia pizza is how easily it adapts to your preferences. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or craving a meaty feast, these variations will help you create your perfect version.

• Vegan Delight: Swap cheese for vegan mozzarella and load up on vegetables like roasted peppers and artichokes.
• Meaty Feast: Add toppings like spicy sausage, pepperoni, or crispy bacon for a savory punch.
• Herb and Garlic: Keep it simple with garlic, fresh rosemary, and a drizzle of olive oil for rustic elegance.
• Sweet and Savory: Try figs, goat cheese, and balsamic glaze for a surprising yet delicious combo.
• Cheesy Explosion: Mix mozzarella, parmesan, and provolone for a deeply satisfying cheesy topping.

How to Make Focaccia Pizza

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast, letting it bloom for about 5 minutes. Add flour, salt, and olive oil, and mix until a sticky dough forms. Knead for about 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let the dough rise to double in size, approximately 1 hour.

Step 2: Shape and Preheat

Lightly oil a baking sheet and gently press the risen dough into the pan, stretching it to fit. Don’t worry if it doesn’t reach the edges perfectly – the dough will continue to expand. Drizzle olive oil over the top and let it rest for another 20 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Step 3: Add Toppings

Before baking, gently press your choice of toppings into the dough. Popular options include sliced tomatoes, olives, fresh herbs, dollops of mozzarella, or caramelized onions. Sprinkle with sea salt flakes and an extra drizzle of olive oil to enhance the flavor and create a golden crust.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake the focaccia pizza for 18 to 22 minutes or until the crust turns golden and crispy at the edges, and the toppings are cooked through. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before slicing.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Cut into squares or slices and serve warm. For extra flair, finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze right before serving for a mouthwatering taste experience.

Pro Tips for Making Focaccia Pizza

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensures even yeast activation and dough rise.
• Don’t Overload Toppings: Keep toppings moderate to avoid soggy focaccia.
• Generous Olive Oil: Helps develop a crispy crust with rich flavor.
• Press Dimples Into Dough: Creates traditional focaccia texture and holds toppings beautifully.
• Let the Dough Rest Long Enough: Patience with rising times boosts flavor and airy texture.
• Bake on a Preheated Stone or Baking Sheet: Gives the bottom crust extra crispness.

How to Serve Focaccia Pizza

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley add a bright, fresh finish. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or balsamic reduction elevates flavor and presentation. Thinly shaved parmesan or a handful of arugula can provide delightful textural contrasts.

Side Dishes

Pair focaccia pizza with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a refreshing tomato and cucumber salad for a balanced meal. A bowl of soup like minestrone or a light broth complements the richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice focaccia pizza into bite-sized squares for party platters or serve as large rustic slices for family-style meals. Layer multiple focaccia pizzas with different toppings for a colorful and inviting spread. For a brunch twist, serve alongside scrambled eggs or charcuterie.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover focaccia pizza wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and moisture.

Freezing

Wrap cooled focaccia pizza slices individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat focaccia pizza in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the bread soggy.

FAQs

What is focaccia pizza?

Focaccia pizza is a type of pizza that uses focaccia bread as its base, offering a thicker, airy, and crispier crust compared to traditional pizza dough.

Can I use store-bought focaccia for focaccia pizza?

Yes, you can use store-bought focaccia as a shortcut, but adding fresh toppings and reheating it in the oven will enhance flavor and texture.

Is focaccia pizza gluten-free?

Traditional focaccia pizza contains gluten due to wheat flour, but there are gluten-free flour blends available to make a similar version for gluten-sensitive diets.

How long does focaccia pizza dough need to rise?

The dough usually requires about 1 hour for the first rise, plus another 20 minutes after shaping to develop its characteristic texture.

Can I make focaccia pizza without yeast?

Yeast is essential for traditional focaccia dough’s texture and flavor, but some quick bread versions use baking powder as a substitute, though the result will differ.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something crispy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying, focaccia pizza is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. So grab your ingredients, get your hands doughy, and dive into this delicious focaccia pizza journey – your taste buds will thank you!

Related Posts

• Hasselback Sweet Potatoes
• Pumpkin Beef Lasagna
• The Best Lasagna Recipe

Print