Breakfast

Breakfast Focaccia

Name: Breakfast Focaccia
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 1 h 28 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 6 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided; 467 g (about 3 3/4 cups) all-purpose flour; 2 tsp. kosher salt; 1 1/4-oz. packet instant yeast; 440 mL (about 1 3/4 cups plus 1 Tbsp.) lukewarm water; 1 lb. ground breakfast sausage; 4 oz. cheddar, finely shredded, divided; 3 oz. cherry tomatoes, halved lengthwise; 1 rosemary sprig, leaves plucked, coarsely chopped; 6 large eggs; Flaky sea salt; Freshly ground black pepper

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Breakfast Focaccia is a delightful twist on traditional bread that brings together the heartiness of breakfast flavors in a warm, pillowy dough. The combination of savory sausage, gooey cheddar cheese, and fresh tomatoes all topped with perfectly baked eggs makes this dish not only satisfying but also visually appealing. Imagine serving this warm, inviting bread at your next brunch gathering and watching your friends and family fall in love with every bite!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 28 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 28 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 450
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 600mg

Why Make This Breakfast Focaccia

This Breakfast Focaccia is the perfect balance of comforting and hearty. It combines traditional breakfast ingredients into a flavorful bread that can serve as a main dish or a side. The fluffy focaccia envelops the savory elements, making it a great option for brunches, breakfasts, or even casual dinners. Plus, it’s simple enough for even novice cooks to master. You’ll love how the aroma of fresh herbs and baked eggs fills your kitchen, immediately making everyone feel at home.

How to Make Breakfast Focaccia

Making Breakfast Focaccia is straightforward and enjoyable, perfect for a lazy weekend morning or a hearty meal prep. Follow along with the steps below to achieve a beautifully risen focaccia topped with all your favorite breakfast ingredients.

Ingredients:

6 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
467 g (about 3 3/4 cups) all-purpose flour
2 tsp. kosher salt
1 1/4-oz. packet instant yeast
440 mL (about 1 3/4 cups plus 1 Tbsp.) lukewarm water
1 lb. ground breakfast sausage
4 oz. cheddar, finely shredded, divided
3 oz. cherry tomatoes, halved lengthwise
1 rosemary sprig, leaves plucked, coarsely chopped
6 large eggs
Flaky sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Coat a large bowl with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. In another bowl, combine the flour, kosher salt, and instant yeast by whisking them together. Pour the lukewarm water into the flour mixture and mix until a wet dough forms. Transfer this dough to the oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and allow it to rise for about 1 hour.

Step 2: Sautéing

In a skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the ground breakfast sausage and cook until it is browned, which should take about 10 to 12 minutes. Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate, reserving the oil left in the pan.

Step 3: Greasing and Preheating

Preheat your oven to 450°F. Grease a 13 by 9-inch baking pan with the remaining olive oil, making sure to include the reserved sausage oil for added flavor.

Step 4: Layering

Transfer half of the risen dough to the prepared pan, spreading it out to cover the bottom. Top with half of the cooked sausage and half of the shredded cheddar. Gently place the remaining dough on top, spreading it as needed. Now add the rest of the sausage, cheddar, halved cherry tomatoes, and rosemary leaves.

Step 5: Creating Wells for Eggs

Using your fingers, create 6 indentations in the dough. Crack an egg into each indentation, then season with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper for an extra flavor boost.

Step 6: Baking

Bake in the preheated oven for about 23 to 28 minutes, or until the focaccia is puffed and golden brown. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes once removed from the oven, then serve warm to enjoy the delightful medley of flavors.

How to Serve Breakfast Focaccia

Slice the Breakfast Focaccia into squares or rectangles and serve it warm. It makes a fantastic centerpiece for brunch along with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad. You could also present it as a make-ahead breakfast option that can be quickly reheated in the morning. Don’t hesitate to pair it with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a delightful start to your day!

How to Store Breakfast Focaccia

To keep your Breakfast Focaccia fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.

Expert Tips for Perfect Breakfast Focaccia

Timing: Ensure the water used for the dough is lukewarm, as this helps activate the yeast effectively.
Don’t Rush the Rise: Allow the dough ample time to rise; this creates a light and fluffy texture.
Oven Position: Bake in the center of the oven for even cooking.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil for varied flavors.
Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix up the cheese. Mozzarella or feta work wonderfully too!

Delicious Variations

Vegetarian Option: Swap out the sausage for sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers.
Cheesy Delight: Add a blend of cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for an extra kick.
Savory Herbs: Incorporate garlic powder or Italian seasoning into the dough for added flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, bread flour will give you a chewier texture which can be delightful.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that has xanthan gum in it for the best results.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the dough a day before, let it rise, and then assemble and bake it fresh in the morning.
What can I serve with Breakfast Focaccia?
It pairs well with freshly squeezed orange juice or a simple green side salad for a balanced meal.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The focaccia should be golden brown and puffed up. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Conclusion

This Breakfast Focaccia is not just a meal; it’s a delicious experience that can bring warmth and joy to any table. With its fluffy layers and savory toppings, it’s a dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. Try this recipe out for your next family breakfast or brunch gathering, and enjoy the heartfelt delight that is shared over good food. Happy baking!