Buttery Garlic Naan Bread Recipe

This homemade garlic naan is soft, pillowy, and brushed with a delicious buttery garlic topping. It’s the perfect side for curries, stews, or even as a base for wraps and pizzas. Made with simple ingredients, this naan is easy to prepare and better than takeout!

Ingredients (Makes 8 Naans)

For the Naan Dough:

2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
¾ cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon baking powder
3 tablespoons plain yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

For the Garlic Butter Topping:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder.
Add the yeast mixture, yogurt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

2. Make the Garlic Butter

Mix melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro/parsley. Set aside.

3. Shape & Cook the Naan

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal portions.
Roll each portion into an oval or round shape (about ¼ inch thick).
Heat a cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
Cook one naan at a time—30-45 seconds per side—until it bubbles and gets golden brown spots. Flip and repeat.
Brush each naan with garlic butter immediately after cooking.

4. Serve & Enjoy!

Serve warm with butter chicken, curry, or hummus.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze for later.

Tips & Variations

???? Extra Charred Flavor? Cook naan over an open flame for a tandoori-style char.
???? Cheesy Garlic Naan? Sprinkle shredded mozzarella before folding and rolling.
???? Vegan Option? Use dairy-free yogurt and substitute butter with olive oil.