Print

Easy Skillet Garlic Naan Bread: Soft, Buttery, and Restaurant Quality

A close-up of a freshly baked slice of cheesy naan bread, golden brown and slightly charred on top, served on a white plate.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

You can make soft, fluffy, buttery naan bread at home without a tandoor. This simple recipe uses a skillet to achieve restaurant-quality results perfect for serving with your favorite curries.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 cup warm water (about 105-115°F)
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons plain yogurt or milk
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for brushing
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter, for brushing

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it stand for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
  3. Mix the dough: Pour the yeast mixture, yogurt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the flour mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Knead: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  5. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  6. Shape the naan: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into an oval or teardrop shape, about 1/8 inch thick.
  7. Prepare garlic butter: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
  8. Cook the naan: Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until very hot. Do not add oil to the pan.
  9. Cook on the skillet: Place one piece of rolled dough onto the hot, dry skillet. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until bubbles form on the surface and the bottom has brown spots.
  10. Flip and finish: Flip the naan and cook the other side for about 1 minute until lightly charred spots appear.
  11. Brush with butter: Immediately transfer the cooked naan to a plate and brush generously with the garlic butter mixture. Repeat with the remaining dough pieces.

Notes

  • For extra soft naan, cover the cooked bread with a clean kitchen towel while you cook the remaining pieces.
  • If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, let the minced garlic steep in the melted butter for 10 minutes before brushing.
  • You can bake these instead of using a skillet: place them on a preheated baking sheet at 450°F (232°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition