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Crispy, chewy focaccia bread topped with tangy dill pickles, creamy garlic sauce, and melty mozzarella—this Dill Pickle Focaccia is a game-changer! Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course, it's a must-try for all pickle lovers. Perfectly golden with a soft interior and crunchy edges, this pickle-packed focaccia is unexpectedly delicious!
Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips
- For the Focaccia Dough:
- All-purpose flour (4 cups/500g) – Or bread flour for extra chewiness
- Instant yeast (1 packet/2¼ tsp) – Or active dry yeast, proofed in warm water
- Warm water (1½ cups) – 110°F for yeast activation
- Salt (2 tsp) – Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough
- Olive oil (2 tbsp) – For rich flavor and crisp texture
- Sugar (1 tsp) – Feeds the yeast and helps rise
- For the Garlic Dill Sauce:
- Sour cream (½ cup) – Or substitute with Greek yogurt for tanginess
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Or ½ tsp garlic powder
- Dried dill weed (1 tbsp) – Or 1½ tsp fresh dill, finely chopped
- Salt (½ tsp) – Balances the sauce flavors
- Black pepper (½ tsp) – Optional, for extra depth
- For the Toppings:
- Sliced dill pickles (1½ cups) – Use your favorite brand or homemade pickles!
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1½ cups) – For gooey, melty perfection
- Grated parmesan cheese (¼ cup) – Optional, for extra saltiness & umami
- Fresh dill (1 tbsp) – For garnish, or an extra sprinkle of dried dill after baking
Detailed Cooking Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Add warm water and olive oil, stirring until the dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes until soft and slightly sticky. Transfer to a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- 2. Prepare the Garlic Dill Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix sour cream, minced garlic, dried dill, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth, then refrigerate until ready to use. The flavors deepen as it sits!
- 3. Shape and Second Rise
- Grease a cast-iron skillet or 9×13 baking dish with olive oil. Transfer the risen dough into the dish and gently press it to the edges. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- 4. Assemble the Focaccia
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Dimple the dough with your fingers, creating small wells. Spread garlic dill sauce evenly over the dough. Arrange dill pickle slices on top, followed by mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- 5. Bake the Focaccia
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown, bubbly, and crisp on the edges. Let cool for 5 minutes, then sprinkle with fresh dill before slicing.
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Serving Suggestions
- As an Appetizer – Cut into smaller squares and serve with a side of ranch or extra garlic sauce
- Pair with Soup or Salad – Perfect alongside a classic Caesar salad or tomato soup
- Make a Sandwich – Slice it in half and fill with ham, turkey, or roasted veggies
- As a Main Dish – Serve with roasted vegetables or a charcuterie-style platter
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat in the Oven – Bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may soften the texture
- Freeze for Later – Wrap in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat directly in the oven at 375°F for 10-12 minutes
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If you love garlic, cheese, and pickles, this Dill Pickle Focaccia Bread is a must-try! With its golden crust, creamy sauce, and zesty pickle topping, it's a bold, unexpected flavor combo that just works. Whether you serve it as a starter, snack, or meal, this crispy, cheesy, and tangy focaccia will have everyone coming back for more!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use store-bought dough?
- Yes, pizza or focaccia dough works. Let come to room temp before using.
- → What kind of pickles work best?
- Dill pickle chips or sliced dill pickles. Avoid sweet pickles.
- → Can I make this ahead?
- Can make dough ahead but assemble and bake just before serving.
- → Why use a cast iron skillet?
- Creates crispy bottom crust. Can use baking pan if needed.
- → Can I freeze this?
- Best fresh. Can freeze baked focaccia but texture may change.