Cheeseburger Focaccia Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

Focaccia Base:

• 2 cups lukewarm water
• 1 (0.25 ounce) packet active-dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups bread flour

Cheeseburger Toppings:

• Olive oil, as needed
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1/2 pound ground beef
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
• 2 dill pickle spears, diced

Directions

Preparing the Focaccia:

1. Pour water into a large bowl, sprinkle the yeast and sugar on top, and stir briefly. Let sit for about 10 minutes until the yeast blooms and becomes foamy.
2. Add olive oil and salt, then incorporate both flours using a dough whisk or wooden spoon until no dry streaks remain.
3. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise for 45 minutes.
4. Perform a "stretch and fold" by wetting your hands slightly and lifting the top edges of the dough over itself. Repeat all around the dough. Cover and rest for 30 minutes. Repeat this stretch-and-fold process three more times, 30 minutes apart.
5. After the final fold, let the dough rest for another 30 minutes. It should double in size and feel smooth. The dough can be used immediately or chilled overnight.

Preparing the Toppings:

1. Lightly oil a 9x13-inch metal pan. Place the focaccia dough in the pan and gently stretch it into the corners. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
2. Preheat oven to 450F (230C).
3. Heat 1/2 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft, 3-4 minutes. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until almost fully browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.
4. Once the focaccia has risen, drizzle lightly with olive oil and use your fingers to dimple the surface. Spread shredded cheese evenly, dimple again, then scatter cooked beef and onions on top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the focaccia is golden and the cheese is bubbly. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cutting board. Cool another 10 minutes and sprinkle with diced pickles before slicing and serving.

Cook's Note

If you prefer weighing ingredients for precision:

• 500 g lukewarm water
• 1 (7 g) packet active-dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 30 g olive oil
• 15 g kosher salt
• 400 g all-purpose flour
• 250 g bread flour

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 433
• Total Fat: 17 g (21%)
• Saturated Fat: 7 g (33%)
• Cholesterol: 43 mg (14%)
• Sodium: 636 mg (28%)
• Total Carbohydrates: 50 g (18%)
• Dietary Fiber: 2 g (7%)
• Protein: 19 g (38%)
• Calcium: 186 mg (14%)
• Iron: 3 mg (15%)
• Potassium: 199 mg (4%)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Nutrient data may vary depending on ingredient brands.

The History of Cheeseburger Focaccia

The cheeseburger focaccia is a contemporary fusion dish that marries two iconic culinary traditions: the Italian focaccia and the American cheeseburger. Focaccia, a flat, oven-baked bread, has roots dating back to ancient Rome, where it was enjoyed as a simple, rustic bread often topped with herbs and olive oil. The modern concept of adding cheeseburger ingredients emerged in the late 20th century in the United States, inspired by the growing popularity of gourmet burgers and artisanal bread. This hybrid creation quickly became a favorite for home cooks and restaurants seeking a creative twist on classic comfort food.

Regional Characteristics

While the base focaccia originates from Liguria, a coastal region of Italy, the cheeseburger version is distinctly American in its toppings. In the United States, different regions may adapt the dish according to local taste: in the Midwest, for example, Cheddar and pickles are commonly used, whereas on the East Coast, one might find variations with mozzarella and caramelized onions. The key regional characteristic is the blending of Italian baking techniques with classic American burger flavors, resulting in a dish that is soft, savory, and richly layered.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Cheeseburger focaccia differs from traditional cheeseburgers in its presentation and texture. Instead of a sandwich bun, the ground beef, cheese, and toppings are baked on a fluffy, olive-oil-rich focaccia bread, creating a combination of bread and toppings in one unified dish. Unlike pizza, which typically features a thinner crust and a tomato-based sauce, this focaccia uses a thicker, more pillowy bread and omits tomato sauce entirely. The stretch-and-fold technique used in focaccia preparation gives it a unique chew and airy structure, distinguishing it from standard burger sandwiches or flatbreads.

Where Its Typically Served

Cheeseburger focaccia is often enjoyed as a main course at casual dining restaurants, bistros, or at home as a hearty family meal. It can also appear at food festivals, bakeries, or American-style gastropubs, where inventive takes on classic comfort foods are popular. Its large, shareable size makes it ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or game-day snacks, offering a convenient way to serve a crowd without preparing individual burgers.

Interesting Facts

• The dish combines two culturally significant foods: Italian bread and the quintessential American cheeseburger.
• Using the stretch-and-fold technique instead of traditional kneading allows the dough to develop a light, airy texture without extensive handling.
• Some chefs experiment with unconventional toppings, such as smoked gouda, jalapeos, or caramelized onions, further bridging international culinary styles.
• Cheeseburger focaccia can be made in advance, refrigerated, and baked fresh, making it a convenient option for meal prepping or entertaining.
• The addition of pickles on top, rather than inside, enhances the visual appeal while providing a tangy crunch to complement the rich flavors of beef and cheese.

FAQ about Cheeseburger Focaccia Recipe