Authentic Artisan Garlic Naan is the kind of bread that transforms an everyday meal into something unforgettable. Soft, warm, and perfectly blistered in all the right places, this skillet-made favorite is brushed generously with garlic butter and ready in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re scooping up your favorite curry, serving it with grilled meats, or layering it alongside veggie mains, this naan is the comforting, tear-apart flatbread that never disappoints.
I first started making garlic naan at home when I realized how easily it comes together with pantry basics — and honestly, I haven’t looked back since. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll make once and then crave on repeat.
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The Story Behind My Garlic Naan Obsession
A Warm Memory From My First Grill Night
There’s something about the smell of garlic naan sizzling on a hot cast iron pan that takes me straight back to a summer evening years ago. I had just mastered marinating steak, and I was itching to find the perfect side to soak up those juicy, balsamic-drizzled flavors. I skipped the store-bought pitas, rolled up my sleeves, and tried making garlic naan from scratch.
Let me tell you, that buttery aroma hit the air and my friends leaned in closer to the pan like bees to honey.
Since then, this authentic garlic naan recipe has become my signature side dish for grilled dinners — especially paired with that balsamic steak gorgonzola salad, where juicy steak meets crisp greens and tangy cheese. There’s simply no better way to swipe up vinaigrette from the plate.
Why This Garlic Naan Stands Out
This isn’t just a flatbread — it’s a pillowy, blistered, flavor-packed experience. Unlike dry or dense versions, my recipe keeps it simple and quick without compromising on texture or taste. A handful of pantry staples, a fast rise, and a good garlic butter brush at the end — that’s it.
You’ll also love how versatile it is. It’s divine with creamy pasta dishes like garlic parmesan chicken twisted pasta or dipped into stews. But honestly, I could eat this naan plain right off the pan. It’s just that satisfying.
Ingredients & Preparation: What You’ll Need
Let’s Talk Ingredients
Making homemade garlic naan doesn’t mean complicated ingredients. You likely have most of these on hand:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Unbleached is best |
| Active dry yeast | 1 tsp | For a soft rise |
| Warm water | ½ cup | Not hot, around 110°F |
| Greek yogurt | ⅓ cup | Adds tang and softness |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For richness |
| Sugar | 1 tsp | Feeds the yeast |
| Salt | ½ tsp | Balances flavor |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp | Helps with puffiness |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | For that essential aroma |
| Butter (melted) | 3 tbsp | Mixed with garlic to brush |
| Chopped cilantro | Optional | Adds a fresh finishing touch |
Tip: You can sub in sour cream for yogurt if needed, or even dairy-free yogurt for a vegan twist.
Tools You’ll Want Handy
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Mixing bowl
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Rolling pin
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Cast iron skillet or non-stick pan
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Silicone brush
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Tongs
If you’ve already used these tools for prepping a meal like grilled flank steak with balsamic twist, this recipe will feel familiar and fun!
Step-by-Step Garlic Naan: Method & Mastery
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, whisk together warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix the Dough
Add yogurt, olive oil, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, then knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth.
3. Let It Rise
Cover the dough with a towel and let rest in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. Divide and Roll
Cut dough into 6 pieces. Roll each into an oval or teardrop shape about ¼-inch thick.
5. Cook It Hot
Preheat your skillet over medium-high. Cook each piece for 1–2 minutes per side until golden bubbles form.
6. Garlic Butter Brushing
Mix melted butter and minced garlic, then brush over warm naan and sprinkle with cilantro.
Tips to Make It Perfect Every Time
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Use warm water, not hot, or the yeast won’t activate.
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Roll gently, so the dough isn’t too thin — we want air bubbles.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook one or two at a time.
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Add toppings like nigella seeds or flaky salt for extra character.
This technique pairs beautifully with veggie mains like the rustic roasted vegetable bake.
Serving Ideas, Storing & Smart Pairings
What to Serve Garlic Naan With
Garlic naan is a natural match for creamy sauces, grilled proteins, and hearty vegetarian bakes. Try laying a warm piece beside:
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Spicy lentil soups or chickpea stews
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Grilled meats like Mediterranean chicken bowls
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Cheesy dips such as baked feta with tomatoes
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Even rich veggie casseroles like spinach zucchini chickpea bake
This naan doesn’t just fill a spot on the plate — it completes the meal.
Storage & Reheating
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Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight bag for up to 4 days.
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Freeze up to 1 month. Wrap each naan in parchment, then foil.
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Reheat in a skillet with a touch of butter, or wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.
You can also microwave for 15 seconds, but the stovetop keeps it soft yet crisp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make garlic naan without yeast?
Yes! Use ½ tsp baking soda and increase baking powder to 2 tsp for a quick no-yeast version.
Can I bake naan instead of skillet-cooking?
You can! Use a 475°F oven and a hot baking stone. It mimics a tandoor well.
Is naan vegan?
Traditional naan uses yogurt and butter, but you can substitute coconut yogurt and vegan butter.
How do I keep naan soft?
Cover with a towel after cooking to retain steam — this keeps the bread pliable.
Can I make it spicy?
Absolutely. Add minced chili or red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for heat.
Conclusion: Warm Bread, Warm Memories
There’s nothing like the joy of tearing into warm, pillowy garlic naan and watching butter drip down the side. Whether it’s part of a summer barbecue or a quiet night with creamy curry, this bread brings comfort, joy, and a touch of artistry to your table.
Looking for more fresh pairings? Try it alongside my cheesy cajun chicken twisted pasta or dip it into marinated mozzarella with olives.
Please rate it, leave a comment, and pin it on Pinterest at Recipes by Sylvia Pinterest. I love seeing how your naan turns out!
Print
Authentic Artisan Garlic Naan
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 6 naan
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This homemade garlic naan is soft, fluffy, and bursting with garlic butter flavor. Perfect with grilled dishes, curries, or on its own!
Ingredients
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1/3 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp butter, melted
• Chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
1. In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add yogurt, olive oil, flour, salt, and baking powder. Mix until dough forms.
3. Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise 1 hour.
4. Divide dough into 6 pieces. Roll each into oval or teardrop shape.
5. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat. Cook naan 1–2 minutes per side until golden and bubbly.
6. Mix melted butter and minced garlic. Brush over warm naan and sprinkle cilantro if desired.
7. Serve warm with your favorite curry, dip, or salad.
Notes
– Substitute sour cream for yogurt if preferred.
– For vegan version, use dairy-free yogurt and vegan butter.
– Add nigella seeds or sesame on top for extra texture.
– Reheat naan in a skillet or oven — avoid microwave for best texture.
– Pairs beautifully with creamy dips, grilled meat, or veggie stews.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Indian