Name: Garlic Naan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup plain yogurt; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon sugar; ¾ teaspoon salt; ⅓ cup warm water or milk; 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter; 2 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced; 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for brushing); 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Soft, buttery, and perfectly charred, Garlic Naan is the kind of flatbread that transforms any meal into something a little more special. Whether you’re serving it alongside a creamy curry or using it to mop up a rich, spiced sauce, this Indian restaurant-style favorite is incredibly easy to recreate at home. With its pillowy texture, golden bubbles, and that unmistakable garlicky aroma, this bread is pure comfort on a plate.

You don’t need a tandoor oven to get authentic results. A hot skillet and a few pantry staples are all you need to make fresh, warm garlic naan in your own kitchen. Topped with a brush of melted butter and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, it’s the perfect blend of savory and fragrant. Once you try it homemade, you’ll never go back to store-bought again.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Naan

Incredible Flavor: The mix of fresh garlic and butter is unbeatable.
Simple Ingredients: Everything is likely already in your pantry.
Quick to Make: No long rise times or complicated techniques.
Versatile Side: Pairs beautifully with everything from tikka masala to hummus.
Customizable: Add cheese, herbs, or spices to make it your own.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To achieve that fluffy interior and lightly charred exterior, here are the tools and why each matters:

Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining and resting the dough.
Rolling Pin: Essential for shaping the dough evenly.
Cast Iron Skillet or Non-stick Pan: A hot, heavy skillet is key to getting those signature charred spots and puffiness.
Pastry Brush: For generously applying the garlic butter topping.
Microplane or Garlic Press: To finely grate or crush the garlic, allowing the flavor to distribute evenly.

Prepping your tools and workspace beforehand ensures a seamless cooking experience. Have your butter melted and garlic ready so you’re brushing each naan as it comes off the skillet, locking in that fresh flavor.

Ingredients for the Garlic Naan

All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the dough, giving the naan structure and chewiness.
Plain Yogurt: Helps make the naan soft and tender by adding acidity and moisture.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These leavening agents provide lift, making the naan puff up beautifully.
Sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness and activates the leaveners.
Salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the garlic.
Warm Water or Milk: Helps bind the dough and activate the baking powder.
Olive Oil or Melted Butter: Adds fat to the dough for richness.
Fresh Garlic: Minced or grated, this is the star of the show.
Butter (for brushing): Melted and mixed with garlic for that glossy, flavorful finish.
Fresh Cilantro (optional): For a herby, aromatic topping.

How To Make the Garlic Naan

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt. Add the yogurt and warm water (or milk), and mix until a shaggy dough forms. Knead it for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 2: Let It Rest

Cover the dough with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for at least 1 hour. This helps the gluten relax and makes the dough easier to roll.

Step 3: Divide and Roll

Once rested, divide the dough into equal-sized balls (about 6–8 depending on your size preference). On a floured surface, roll each ball into an oval or tear-drop shape, about 1/4-inch thick.

Step 4: Cook on a Skillet

Heat a cast-iron or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Place one naan on the dry skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbles form. Flip and cook another 1-2 minutes until golden and slightly charred.

Step 5: Add the Garlic Butter

While the naan is still warm, brush generously with melted garlic butter. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top if desired.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve your garlic naan immediately while warm, soft, and fragrant. Perfect with curries, soups, or as a savory snack.

Serving and Storing Garlic Naan

Garlic Naan is best served fresh off the skillet, warm and pillowy. Pair it with your favorite Indian dishes like butter chicken, lentil dal, or chana masala. It also makes a delicious wrap for grilled meats or veggies, or a flavorful base for a quick flatbread pizza.

If you’re prepping ahead or have leftovers, allow the naan to cool completely. Store in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it longer, freeze the naan with parchment between each piece for up to 2 months. Reheat in a hot skillet or wrapped in foil in the oven to bring back that fresh-baked texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?

Yes, but the naan will be denser and slightly less soft. You can do a half-and-half mix for a balance of texture and nutrition.

Do I need a tandoor oven?

Not at all. A hot skillet replicates the heat of a tandoor well enough to achieve the desired char and puff.

Can I make this dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling.

How can I make this naan vegan?

Substitute the yogurt with a plant-based version and use oil or vegan butter instead of dairy-based butter.

Why didn’t my naan puff up?

Make sure your skillet is hot enough. Also, avoid rolling the dough too thin or thick, and don’t skip the resting phase.

What can I serve this with besides Indian food?

Try it with soups, salads, or as a base for garlic flatbread with cheese. It’s incredibly versatile.

Want More Bread Recipes with a Twist?

If this Garlic Naan has earned a spot in your regular dinner rotation, you might also love these other comforting and creative options:

Try the ultra-satisfying Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for another garlic-forward experience.
The Tzatziki Chicken Veggie Naan Pizza brings together naan and Mediterranean flavors.
Warm up your dinner table with Roasted Parmesan Green Beans for a perfect veggie pairing.
Don’t miss the Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta if you’re after more garlic bliss.

These are all cozy, flavor-packed ideas that make your weeknight meals feel extra special.

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Let me know in the comments how your naan turned out. Did you go classic or sprinkle in some chili flakes? Maybe you stuffed it with cheese? I love seeing your creations and answering any cooking questions.