Name: Buttery Garlic Naan Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting); 2 teaspoons sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ cup plain yogurt; ¼ cup warm milk; 2 tablespoons oil or melted butter; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

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There’s just something magical about Buttery Garlic Naan Bread: that pillowy, golden bread jeweled with garlic butter and wafting heavenly aromas is everything you want in a comfort food. It’s as at home scooping up your favorite curry as it is being devoured warm, straight from the pan. This naan is a standout—soft and chewy on the inside, blistered with perfect charred spots on the outside, and drenched in a buttery garlic topping that makes each bite downright irresistible. Whether you’re gathering friends for an Indian feast or just want to level-up your weeknight dinner, this recipe brings the restaurant experience to your home kitchen.

Buttery Garlic Naan Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a handful of pantry basics and a few special touches—each one contributes rich flavor, irresistible fragrance, and the signature softness that defines Buttery Garlic Naan Bread. Take a peek and you’ll see there’s nothing fancy here, just clever combinations that work culinary magic.

All-purpose flour: Forms the essential base and structure of the naan—be generous when dusting your surface for extra lightness.
Sugar: Brightens the dough and helps with beautiful browning during cooking.
Salt: Brings all the flavors to life—don’t skip it!
Baking powder: Contributes to that signature bubbly texture without fermentation.
Baking soda: Works alongside the yogurt to tenderize and lighten the naan.
Plain yogurt: The secret ingredient for supreme softness and a tangy depth of flavor.
Warm milk: Adds moisture and helps the dough come together smoothly; warm is key for ideal activation.
Oil or melted butter: Infuses richness, aiding with both texture and flavor.
Unsalted butter (for garlic butter): The golden foundation for brushing—don’t be shy!
Garlic cloves: Fresh, minced garlic infuses every bite and enhances the irresistible aroma.
Fresh cilantro (optional): A bright, herbal finish that brings a splash of color and classic restaurant flair.

How to Make Buttery Garlic Naan Bread

Step 1: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and whisking together the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. This dry base is key to the naan’s tender chew and ensures that every bite has a balanced flavor. Thorough mixing now makes for effortless dough later!

Step 2: Create and Knead the Dough

Next, stir in the yogurt, warm milk, and oil (or melted butter) until the dough starts to come together. Get in there with your hands—knead on a floured surface for 5–6 minutes until the dough turns silky and elastic. This step is small effort for big pay-off: you’ll feel it transforming under your palms!

Step 3: Rest and Rise

Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rest for one hour. This resting time allows the baking powder and baking soda to work their magic, resulting in the pillowy texture you crave in homemade Buttery Garlic Naan Bread.

Step 4: Shape the Naan

After that well-earned nap, divide the dough into 6–8 equal pieces. Roll each ball out on a floured surface—the shape can be rustic ovals or rounds; there’s no need for perfection! The thinner you roll, the crispier the finished naan.

Step 5: Cook on a Skillet

On a hot cast-iron skillet or heavy nonstick pan over medium-high heat, cook each naan for 1–2 minutes per side. Watch for those golden, bubbly spots to pop up—that’s the sign of perfectly cooked Buttery Garlic Naan Bread. Flip only once to keep it extra soft!

Step 6: Brush with Garlic Butter

Mix the melted butter with minced garlic and cilantro (if using), then lavishly brush it over the fresh, hot naan. The sizzle and steam as the butter hits the bread? That’s pure magic, and the crowning moment of your homemade naan journey.

How to Serve Buttery Garlic Naan Bread

Garnishes

Amp up your Buttery Garlic Naan Bread with showers of fresh chopped cilantro, a sprinkle of flaky salt, or a dusting of nigella or sesame seeds for extra crunch. Each garnish gives the naan a fresh pop and that signature “from the tandoor” look.

Side Dishes

This naan shines as the perfect sidekick for creamy curries, vibrant chutneys, and hearty stews. Pair it with tikka masala, dal, butter chicken, or even grilled kebabs to create a feast that everyone will dive into with gusto.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice your Buttery Garlic Naan Bread into wedges and serve as dippers for hummus, use as a base for creative flatbread pizzas, or turn it into a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich. Your guests will be delighted by the versatility!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover naan wrapped snugly in foil or placed in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This locks in moisture and keeps your Buttery Garlic Naan Bread soft and fresh for snacking or meals the next day.

Freezing

To freeze, let the naan cool completely, then stack pieces with parchment between them and seal in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to two months—ready to be revived for instant homemade comfort whenever you crave it.

Reheating

Reheat naan on a hot skillet for the best texture or pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. Want that just-made magic? Brush on a bit of extra garlic butter before serving—it perks up Buttery Garlic Naan Bread beautifully.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! Mix and knead the dough, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before rolling out and cooking. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before you shape and cook your Buttery Garlic Naan Bread.

Do I need a tandoor oven for authentic naan?

Not at all! A super-hot cast-iron skillet on your stovetop mimics the high heat of a tandoor quite well. Your Buttery Garlic Naan Bread will get those delicious bubbles and charred spots, all without extra equipment.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Traditional naan uses wheat flour, but you can experiment with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a version that’s friendlier to those avoiding gluten. The texture will differ, but you’ll still enjoy the buttery garlic flavor.

What else can I add for more flavor?

Try kneading chopped herbs, grated cheese, or even a pinch of chili flakes right into the dough before resting. You can also sprinkle nigella or black sesame seeds on top of the Buttery Garlic Naan Bread just before cooking for an extra pop of flavor.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes! Swap the yogurt for a plant-based yogurt, use your favorite non-dairy milk, and brush the naan with vegan butter. The result is a delicious vegan Buttery Garlic Naan Bread that everyone can enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this homemade Buttery Garlic Naan Bread, it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. The process is rewarding, the flavors are unforgettable, and there’s nothing quite like sharing fresh, warm naan with those you love. Happy cooking!