Naan Bread Easy Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the soft, pillowy texture of fresh naan bread, straight from the skillet, brushed with melted butter, and sprinkled with a touch of garlic. The slightly charred surface, the irresistible chewiness, and the subtle tang from the yogurt make it a perfect companion to curries, grilled meats, or even as a snack on its own.

this Recipe

I first learned how to make naan on a whim when I ran out of store-bought bread one evening. What started as an experiment turned into a weekly tradition—one that my family now eagerly anticipates. The best part? This recipe is incredibly easy and requires just a handful of pantry staples!

Why You'll Love This Naan Bread Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with homemade naan! This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick, no-fuss bread that tastes like it came from a restaurant.

First off, it’s ridiculously easy. You don’t need fancy equipment or hours of proofing time. Just mix, rest, and cook—it’s that simple.

It’s also budget-friendly. Made with basic pantry ingredients like flour, yogurt, and yeast, it costs just a fraction of what you'd pay at a restaurant.

And let’s not forget the versatility. While traditional naan pairs beautifully with Indian dishes, you can use it for wraps, pizzas, or even enjoy it slathered in butter and honey.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this naan bread recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few key ingredients, you’ll create soft, flavorful bread in no time.

Flour is the backbone of this recipe. I recommend using all-purpose flour for the softest texture, but bread flour can add a slight chewiness if you prefer.

Greek yogurt is the secret to tender, slightly tangy naan. It adds moisture and helps keep the bread soft. If you don’t have Greek yogurt, regular plain yogurt works just as well.

Yeast is what gives naan its signature airy texture. Instant yeast speeds up the process, but active dry yeast works too—just be sure to activate it in warm water first.

Milk makes the dough extra soft and adds a mild sweetness. If you’re dairy-free, you can use warm water instead, but the texture might be slightly different.

Butter or ghee gives naan its irresistible flavor. Brushing it on while the bread is still warm enhances its softness and adds a delicious richness.

How To Make This Naan Bread

Making naan from scratch is easier than you think. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have fresh, warm naan in under an hour.

Start by combining warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy—this means the yeast is activated and ready to work its magic.

Next, mix in the flour, yogurt, salt, and a little oil. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This should take about 8-10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes with a stand mixer. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, but don’t overdo it—you want it soft and slightly tacky.

Once kneaded, cover the dough and let it rest for 30-45 minutes until it puffs up slightly. Naan doesn’t need a full rise like other breads; just enough resting time to develop flavor and elasticity.

After resting, divide the dough into equal portions and roll each into a thin oval or round shape. If you want extra fluffy naan, keep it slightly thick—this will help it puff up beautifully when cooked.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and place the rolled-out naan on the hot surface. Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until you see bubbles forming and the bottom develops golden-brown spots. Flip and cook the other side the same way.

Finally, brush with melted butter or ghee, and if you like, sprinkle with minced garlic or chopped cilantro for extra flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Storage Options

Homemade naan stores surprisingly well, making it perfect for meal prep.

To store at room temperature, place cooled naan in an airtight container or wrap it in foil. It stays fresh for up to 2 days.

For longer storage, refrigerate naan in a sealed container for up to 4 days. Warm it in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds before serving.

You can also freeze naan! Stack pieces with parchment paper between them, then place in a zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in a skillet for the best texture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about naan is how customizable it is. Here are a few ways to switch things up:

For garlic naan, mix minced garlic into the dough or brush with garlic butter after cooking for extra flavor.

Want whole wheat naan? Swap half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour. It adds a slightly nutty flavor and boosts the fiber content.

To make it vegan, replace yogurt with coconut yogurt and use warm water instead of milk. Brush with olive oil instead of butter.

For a cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar) onto one side of the naan before cooking. The cheese will melt and create a deliciously gooey texture.

Experiment and have fun—naan is endlessly adaptable to your taste!

Making homemade naan is easier than you think, and once you try it, you may never go back to store-bought! Soft, fluffy, and packed with flavor, this easy naan bread is perfect for any meal. Give it a try and let me know your favorite way to enjoy it!

Print