Description
Italian Focaccia Pizza
Ingredients:
1 large focaccia bread
1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried basil
Olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Prepare the Bread:
Place the focaccia bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Spread Sauce:
Evenly spread marinara or pizza sauce over the surface of the focaccia.
4. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top of the sauce.
5. Season:
Sprinkle dried oregano and basil over the cheese. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil if desired.
6. Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve:
Slice into squares and serve hot.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect focaccia pizza every time. First, ensure your focaccia is at room temperature. If using a baking stone, place it in the oven during preheating for a crispier base. When spreading the sauce, leave a small border (about 1/2 inch) around the edges to create a “crust.” For the cheese, use a combination of low-moisture shredded mozzarella and fresh mozzarella pearls for superior texture and flavor. Bake on the middle rack, and for the last 2 minutes, switch to the broil setting to achieve a beautifully golden, spotted cheese top.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish can be served as a shareable appetizer, cut into small squares, or as a main course with sides. For a complete meal, pair with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. It also makes an excellent party food; set up a topping bar with bowls of prosciutto, fresh basil leaves, roasted red peppers, and chili flakes so guests can customize their slices. Serve alongside marinara or garlic aioli for dipping.
How-to Summary
In short: Preheat oven to 200°C. Place focaccia on a lined tray, spread sauce, add cheese, and season with herbs. Bake for 10-12 minutes until cheese is bubbly. Slice and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade focaccia?
Absolutely! A fresh, homemade focaccia will yield an exceptional base. Just ensure it is fully cooled before adding toppings to prevent sogginess.
How do I prevent a soggy crust?
Do not overload with sauce. A thin, even layer is key. You can also lightly toast the plain focaccia in the oven for 3-4 minutes before adding toppings.
What are the best cheese alternatives?
For a dairy-free version, use high-quality vegan mozzarella. For a different flavor profile, try a blend of fontina and parmesan.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can assemble the pizza up to 2 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. Bake just before serving for the best texture.
How should I store leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using too much sauce, which makes the bread soggy.
- Baking on a cold baking sheet; ensure it’s preheated with the oven if not using parchment.
- Overcrowding with heavy toppings, which can weigh down the bread and lead to uneven cooking.
- Cutting the pizza immediately after baking, which can cause the cheese to slide off. Let it rest for 2-3 minutes.
- Using only dried herbs. While fine, adding fresh basil or oregano after baking dramatically boosts flavor.
Conclusion
Focaccia pizza is the ultimate fusion of two beloved classics, offering a deliciously chewy base with minimal effort. Its simplicity is its strength, providing a perfect canvas for endless customization. By following this enhanced guide, avoiding common pitfalls, and exploring the serving suggestions, you can transform a simple loaf of bread into an impressive and satisfying meal that will delight any crowd.