Stuffed focaccia is a culinary masterpiece that combines the rustic charm of Italian bread with the excitement of flavorful fillings. Unlike plain focaccia, this version is hearty, layered, and packed with savory surprises. When you bite into it, the crisp crust gives way to a warm, soft interior that melts in your mouth.
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Focaccia has ancient roots, tracing back to Roman times, where it was a simple bread seasoned with olive oil and salt. Over centuries, it evolved into numerous variations, including stuffed versions filled with meats, cheese, and vegetables. Today, recipes like stuffed focaccia sandwiches, cheese stuffed focaccia, and stuffed focaccia pizza have gained popularity among food lovers everywhere.
This guide will teach you everything about stuffed focaccia, from types and health facts to creative fillings and a step-by-step recipe you can master at home. By the end, you’ll understand why this bread is the ultimate comfort food.
For more creative bread inspirations and international recipes, check out amazing ideas on Maja’s Recipes.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Understanding Focaccia and Its Types
Can You Stuff Focaccia?
Absolutely! Focaccia is not only a bread but also a blank canvas for creativity. You can stuff it with meats, vegetables, cheese, or even sweet ingredients. Stuffing enhances its flavor and turns it from a side dish into a complete meal. The dough’s elasticity makes it perfect for sealing in fillings without leaking.
The Two Main Types of Focaccia Explained
There are two primary styles:
- Focaccia Genovese – thin, soft, and perfect for snacking or slicing into sandwiches.
- Focaccia Barese – thicker, often topped with tomatoes or olives, and can handle heavier fillings.
Whether you prefer a sandwich-like bread or a deep, pizza-style loaf, focaccia can deliver.
Popular Variants: Sandwich, Cheese, and Pizza Focaccia
People also search for stuffed focaccia sandwich ideas or stuffed focaccia pizza. These versions pack layers of cheese, meats, and sauces, creating a hybrid between bread and a meal. Check out this eggplant pesto sandwich recipe for filling inspiration.
Health Perspective on Focaccia
How Unhealthy Is Focaccia Bread? Truth vs. Myths
Some believe focaccia is unhealthy because it’s carb-heavy. While it’s true bread contains carbs, when made with quality olive oil and wholesome ingredients, it’s far from harmful. Stuffed focaccia can even be nutritious when filled with vegetables and lean proteins.
Tips to Make a Healthier Stuffed Focaccia
- Use whole grain flour instead of refined white flour.
- Opt for heart-healthy fillings like grilled veggies and lean meats.
- Reduce the amount of cheese if you’re watching calories.
Nutritional Breakdown Table
| Component | Approx. per Slice (100g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Carbs | 35g |
| Protein | 7g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 2g |
With smart ingredient choices, focaccia can fit into a balanced diet.
Printhow to make Stuffed Focaccia – Soft, Cheesy & Bursting with Flavor
This Stuffed Focaccia is a golden, fluffy bread layered with creamy ackee, smoky andouille sausage, and charred peppers, topped with cheddar and breadcrumbs for the ultimate savory bite.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 1 9×13 focaccia (8 servings) 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Jamaican Fusion
- Diet: Low Lactose
Ingredients
- For the dough:
- 415 g (3 1/3 cups) bread flour
- 10 g (2 1/2 tsps) brown sugar
- 10 g (2 1/2 tsps) salt
- 60 g (1/4 cup) olive oil
- 6 g (2 tsps) instant yeast
- 260 g (1 1/4 cup) water
- For the filling:
- Parboiled ackee (or canned), as needed
- Cooked and sliced andouille sausage, as needed
- Charred onions and red peppers, as needed
- For the topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- Parsley, as needed
- Smoked paprika, as needed
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer, add water and yeast first, followed by flour and remaining dough ingredients. Mix using the paddle attachment (or dough hook) for 10–15 minutes on medium speed until smooth and elastic.
- Transfer dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover loosely, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
- Deflate dough gently and cut it in half.
- Assemble the focaccia: Oil a 9×13 rimmed sheet pan. Take one half of the dough and stretch it to fit the bottom of the pan, letting it rest if needed to relax the gluten.
- Spread the filling ingredients (ackee, andouille sausage, charred onions, and red peppers) evenly over the dough.
- Stretch the second half of the dough slightly larger than the pan and place it over the filling. Press to remove air bubbles and seal the edges. Poke the dough all over with your fingers. Cover and let rise again for 40–60 minutes until puffy.
- Prepare the topping: Mix cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle evenly over the dough.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the focaccia in the oven and immediately reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown, checking around the 15-minute mark.
- Cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- If your kitchen is cool, allow extra proofing time for the dough to double in size.
- Resting the dough in between stretching helps prevent tearing.
- You can customize the filling with other vegetables or cheeses.
- Use a sharp knife to slice clean portions once cooled slightly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 18mg
Ingredients and Preparation
Essential Ingredients for the Dough and Filling
You’ll need:
- 415g bread flour
- 10g brown sugar
- 10g salt
- 60g olive oil
- 6g instant yeast
- 260g water
- Parboiled ackee, sausage, charred onions, and red peppers for filling
- Cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper for topping
Choosing Quality Ingredients
Use high-quality bread flour for elasticity, and extra virgin olive oil for a richer taste. Fresh vegetables and good-quality cheese make a huge difference.
Recommended Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer with paddle or dough hook
- Sheet pan (9×13)
- Oil spray
- Oven thermometer for precise baking
Step-by-Step Stuffed Focaccia Recipe
Preparing the Dough: Techniques for Perfect Texture
- Add water and yeast to your mixing bowl.
- Add flour, sugar, salt, and olive oil.
- Mix for 10–15 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Oil the bowl, return the dough, cover, and let it double in size (30–60 minutes depending on room temperature).
Assembling, Filling, and Baking Like a Pro
- Oil the baking pan.
- Divide dough in half, stretch one half to fill the pan.
- Add fillings: ackee, sausage, onions, and peppers.
- Stretch the second half, cover, and seal edges.
- Let rest for 40–60 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 425°F, sprinkle with topping, then bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes.
- Cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Table of Baking Times & Temperatures
| Stage | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat | 425°F | – |
| Baking | 375°F | 20–25m |
| Cooling | – | 10–15m |
For more baking insights, discover creamy salmon pasta recipes here to pair with your focaccia.
Creative Ideas for Filling Focaccia
What to Fill Focaccia With? From Classic to Gourmet
- Cheese: Mozzarella, cheddar, or goat cheese
- Meats: Andouille sausage, prosciutto, or chicken
- Veggies: Peppers, spinach, caramelized onions
Creative Focaccia Ideas
Combine cheese with herbs, or sausage with veggies. For a twist, try seafood or sweet fillings like Nutella for dessert focaccia.
Combining Flavors for Ultimate Taste
Pair smoky sausage with creamy cheese, or roasted peppers with feta. The combinations are endless.
Storage, Serving & Safety Tips
Does Focaccia with Cheese Need to Be Refrigerated?
Yes, cheese-filled focaccia should be refrigerated if not eaten within a day. Store in an airtight container, and reheat at 350°F for 5 minutes to restore its texture.
Serving Suggestions for Maximum Flavor
Serve warm, drizzled with olive oil, or alongside soups and salads.
How to Store and Reheat Stuffed Focaccia
Wrap in foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Freeze for longer storage and reheat straight from the freezer.
FAQs
Can you stuff focaccia?
Yes, you can stuff focaccia with cheese, meats, and veggies, making it a hearty meal.
What are the two types of focaccia?
Focaccia Genovese (thin) and Focaccia Barese (thicker) are the main types.
How unhealthy is focaccia bread?
When made with quality ingredients, it can be part of a balanced diet.
What to fill focaccia with?
Fill it with cheese, sausage, veggies, or creative combinations.