If you’re as obsessed with focaccia as we are, this fluffy, golden-crusted beauty is about to become your go-to pizza base. Topped with earthy kale and creamy goat cheese, it delivers elegance without the fuss—and the best part? It’s endlessly versatile, pairing perfectly with almost any toppings you love.
Ingredients (Makes 2 servings)
For the Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 Tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, roughly chopped
- 1 tsp olive oil (plus extra for coating)
- 1 Tbsp rosemary, roughly chopped
- 1 tsp instant yeast
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Toppings
- 6 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup kale, packed and chopped
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tsp olive oil
Directions
Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, yeast, and garlic powder. Add warm water (120°F–130°F), checking the temperature to ensure proper yeast activation. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a sticky dough forms. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or overnight.
Shape and Pre-Bake the Focaccia
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line an 8–to 9-inch cake pan with parchment paper, then brush the parchment with 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Transfer the chilled dough to the pan, drizzle with the remaining olive oil, and turn to coat evenly. Press and stretch the dough to fit the pan. Cover with a clean towel and let it rest in a warm, draft-free spot for 15 minutes.
Add Aromatics and Bake
After resting, use your fingertips to dimple the dough all over. Sprinkle with sun-dried tomatoes and rosemary, pressing them gently into the surface. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden and set.
Assemble the Pizza
Increase oven temperature to 450°F. Carefully transfer the baked focaccia to a sheet pan. Toss the kale with 1 tsp of olive oil, massaging it to soften the leaves. Spread tomato sauce evenly over the crust, then layer with kale and crumbled goat cheese. Bake for another 5–8 minutes, until the cheese begins to brown.
Slice into four pieces and serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make the focaccia dough ahead of time?
Yes. The dough can be prepared the night before and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
What type of flour works best for this recipe?
All-purpose flour works perfectly, but you can also use bread flour for a chewier texture.
Can I substitute the goat cheese with something else?
Absolutely. Try feta, ricotta, mozzarella, or even vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
Do I have to use kale?
No. You can replace kale with spinach, arugula, or your favorite leafy greens.
How do I know if my water is the right temperature for yeast?
The water should be between 120°F–130°F. If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast; too cool, and it won’t activate properly.
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, but you’ll need to dissolve it in warm water before mixing it into the flour.
How can I make the crust extra crispy?
Bake the focaccia crust on a preheated pizza stone or cast iron pan for extra crispiness.
What other toppings go well with this pizza?
Roasted peppers, caramelized onions, mushrooms, olives, or prosciutto are great additions.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain texture.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and check that your yeast is gluten-free.
What’s the best way to reheat this pizza?
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes or in an air fryer for 3–4 minutes to keep the crust crisp.
Conclusion
This focaccia-based kale and goat cheese pizza is proof that elegance and simplicity can go hand in hand. With its soft, golden crust, fresh greens, and creamy cheese, it transforms everyday ingredients into a meal that feels special. The overnight dough method gives you incredible flavor and texture with minimal effort, while the toppings remain endlessly customizable to suit your taste. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner, a weekend treat, or to impress guests, this recipe offers a perfect balance of comfort and sophistication—one you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again.