Name: Focaccia Pizza Recipe
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade); 6 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided (use high-quality for best flavor); 2 tsp flaky sea salt or coarse sea salt; Fresh rosemary; Sliced red onions or shallots; Pitted olives; Cherry tomatoes; Fresh or roasted garlic; Diverse herbs; Shredded parmesan cheese; Sliced sweet or spicy peppers

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 9 reviews

If you are craving a rustic, golden-crisp bread that’s bursting with flavor and has a delightful texture, then this Focaccia Pizza Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish elegantly combines the airy softness of focaccia with the savory appeal of pizza, giving you a versatile and utterly satisfying treat. Whether you’re hosting friends, looking for an easy weeknight meal, or just want to experiment in the kitchen, this focaccia style pizza delivers all the charm and comfort in one gorgeous pan.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl with a light brown rim holds a single layer of pale beige dough that looks soft and slightly bubbly. To the right of the bowl, there is a small white ceramic jar with a spout filled with a greenish liquid, and below it, a tiny white ceramic bowl contains coarse salt. The items are placed on a white marbled surface with soft natural light showing clear textures and colors, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple but incredibly essential for a beautiful Focaccia Pizza Recipe. Each one plays a crucial role in bringing out the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and that irresistible golden color.

1 lb pizza dough: The foundation of your focaccia pizza, either homemade or store-bought, ensures a soft yet airy base.
6 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Divided use means some for the pan and some for drizzling, bringing richness and a crispy crust.
2 tsp flaky sea salt: Adds a delightful crunch and savory punch, enhancing the olive oil’s richness perfectly.

How to Make Focaccia Pizza Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Dough

Start with your pizza dough—homemade if you have time, but store-bought works wonderfully too. Let it rest at room temperature for 30-45 minutes; this resting period makes the dough more pliable and easier to stretch without springing back.

Step 2: Mold Dough to the Pan

Generously oil a 9×13 inch pan with 2 tablespoons of that beautiful extra virgin olive oil. Place your dough in the pan and gently stretch it out to the edges. Don’t worry if it shrinks back at first; let it rest another 10-15 minutes under a damp towel, then try again. This rest helps the dough relax and fill the pan perfectly.

Step 3: Create the Dimples

This is the signature move of focaccia—use your fingertips, like you’re playing a piano, to poke dimples deep into the dough. These dimples aren’t just pretty; they trap olive oil and toppings, creating bursts of flavor and that epic texture in every bite. Drizzle 4 tablespoons of olive oil over the dough while you dimple away.

Step 4: Add Toppings

For a classic spin, sprinkle flaky sea salt and fresh rosemary right into the dimples. But the joy of a Focaccia Pizza Recipe is in its flexibility—try sliced red onions, pitted olives, cherry tomatoes, or shredded parmesan cheese. You can get creative with colors and textures, making this focaccia your own masterpiece.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop your focaccia pizza in a preheated 450˚F oven for 22-25 minutes. I love to let it bake the full 25 for an extra-crisp crust, but it’s lovely at 22 minutes too if you prefer a softer bite. Once golden and irresistible, transfer it immediately to a wire rack to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time sets the structure so every slice holds up beautifully.

How to Serve Focaccia Pizza Recipe

The image shows a focaccia bread cut into square slices on a light brown parchment paper. Each piece of focaccia has a thick, golden-brown crust and a fluffy, light yellow interior with small air bubbles. On the top layer, there are small red cherry tomatoes, green jalapeño slices, and scattered sprigs of rosemary, giving a pop of red and green colors. In the middle, a woman's hand is lifting one square slice, showing the soft texture inside. The background below the parchment paper is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnish with fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano to amp up the aroma and freshness. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of grated parmesan right before serving adds an elegant touch and depth of flavor that makes every bite sing.

Side Dishes

Focaccia pizza pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or a bowl of roasted vegetables. You can also serve it alongside a hearty soup or a plate of olives and marinated artichokes for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.

Creative Ways to Present

To wow your guests, cut the focaccia into squares or fun shapes and serve it on a wooden board lined with parchment paper. Add bowls of dipping oils infused with garlic and chili flakes for a hands-on, interactive meal that invites everyone to savor every bite together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover focaccia pizza tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It keeps well at room temperature for up to 2 days if you plan to enjoy it soon, maintaining its freshness and texture.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Freeze individual slices in airtight freezer bags with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftover focaccia pizza in a warm oven at 350˚F for about 10 minutes to restore that crisp crust and fluffy interior, as opposed to microwaving, which can make it soggy. Enjoy it almost as fresh as when it first came out of the oven!

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this Focaccia Pizza Recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought dough works perfectly and saves time. Just be sure to let it rest at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before stretching for best results.

What can I use if I don’t have flaky sea salt?

You can substitute coarse sea salt or kosher salt, though flaky salt adds a nicer crunch and texture. Just sprinkle a little less if using finer salt to avoid over-salting.

Can I add tomato sauce like in traditional pizza?

While focaccia pizza is traditionally oil-based with toppings added directly, you can absolutely add a thin layer of tomato sauce if you like a saucier slice—just don’t overload it to keep the crust crisp.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes, using a gluten-free pizza dough alternative can work, but results vary depending on the brand. Look for one designed for focaccia or pizza to keep that perfect texture.

How do I get the crust extra crispy?

Make sure to use plenty of olive oil under and on top of the dough, and bake it at a high temperature like 450˚F for the full 25 minutes. Resting on a wire rack also prevents sogginess.

Final Thoughts

This Focaccia Pizza Recipe is a wonderfully simple yet impressive way to enjoy the best qualities of bread and pizza in one. It’s flexible, fun to make, and endlessly customizable, making it a real winner whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself. I can’t wait for you to bake it, savor each bite, and discover why this recipe is truly a kitchen favorite worth sharing.