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This Crispy, Cheese-Stuffed Focaccia From Northern Italy Is a Chef Favorite

Sandy Verma | July 15, 2026 10:24 AM CST

When people think of Italian focaccia, they often imagine a thick, fluffy bread topped with olive oil and herbs. But Focaccia di Recco, a specialty from the Liguria region of Northern Italy, is completely different. Thin, crispy, and generously filled with melted cheese, this traditional flatbread has become a favorite among chefs and food lovers worldwide.

What Is Focaccia di Recco?

Focaccia di Recco is a unique Italian flatbread made with two ultra-thin layers of dough enclosing a rich, creamy cheese filling. Unlike traditional focaccia, it contains no yeast, giving it a crisp and delicate texture.

The bread is baked at a high temperature until the crust turns golden and crispy while the cheese inside becomes perfectly melted.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup water
250–300 g soft cheese (Stracchino is traditional; mozzarella and cream cheese can be used as alternatives)
Olive oil for brushing

How to Make It

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Mix the flour, salt, olive oil, and water until a smooth dough forms. Knead for about 10 minutes, then let it rest for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Roll It Thin

Divide the dough into two equal portions and roll each into an extremely thin sheet.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Place one sheet on a lightly oiled baking tray. Spread small pieces of soft cheese evenly over the surface.

Step 4: Cover and Seal

Lay the second sheet over the cheese and gently seal the edges. Tear a few small openings on top to allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 5: Bake

Brush with olive oil and bake in a preheated oven at 250°C (480°F) for 10–15 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Focaccia di Recco:

Fresh from the oven
With a green salad
Alongside soups
As an appetizer
With cured meats and olives
As a light lunch or evening snack

Why It’s So Popular

This Ligurian specialty stands out because of its:

Ultra-thin crispy crust
Rich, creamy cheese filling
Simple ingredients
Authentic Italian flavor
Quick preparation

Its perfect balance of crunch and melted cheese has made it one of Italy’s most celebrated regional breads.

Final Thoughts

Focaccia di Recco is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. With its crispy crust, gooey cheese center, and authentic Italian roots, this Northern Italian classic is a must-try for anyone who loves homemade bread and cheese-filled comfort food. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, it’s sure to impress family and guests alike.