Easy Homemade Naan Bread

There’s something magical about warm, pillowy naan straight from the pan. Soft, slightly chewy, and brushed with butter, this homemade naan bread is surprisingly easy to make at home with simple pantry ingredients. Whether you pair it with curry, dip it into hummus, or use it as a base for flatbread pizza, naan is one of those versatile recipes you’ll come back to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Naan

✔ Simple Ingredients – Flour, yogurt, yeast, and a few basics are all you need.✔ Soft & Pillowy – Cooked in a hot skillet, naan gets that perfect golden char and fluffy texture.✔ Versatile – Serve it with Indian dishes, dips, or even sweet toppings.✔ Make Ahead Friendly – The dough can rest in the fridge, making it easy for weeknight dinners.

The Recipe: Homemade Naan Bread

Ingredients (Makes 8 pieces):

• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)

• 1 tsp sugar

• ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F)

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)

• 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)

For brushing:

• 2 tbsp melted butter

• Optional: minced garlic, chopped cilantro, or a sprinkle of sea salt

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

• In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

• In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.

• Add the yeast mixture, yogurt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.

• Knead for 6–8 minutes on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: Let It Rise

• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Naan

• Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal pieces.

• Roll each piece into an oval or round shape, about ¼ inch thick.

Step 5: Cook the Naan

• Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat until hot.

• Place one rolled dough piece in the pan. Cook for 1–2 minutes until bubbles form and the bottom is golden brown. Flip and cook another 1–2 minutes.

• Brush with melted butter or olive oil immediately after cooking. Repeat with remaining dough.

Tips & Variations

• 🌿 Garlic Naan – Mix minced garlic into the melted butter and brush over hot naan.

• 🧀 Cheese Naan – Stuff the dough with shredded mozzarella before rolling out.

• 🍯 Sweet Naan – Add a drizzle of honey and cinnamon for a dessert version.

• ❄️ Make Ahead – Store cooked naan in the fridge or freezer, reheat in the microwave.

Why This Recipe Works

The yogurt gives the naan its signature softness and chew, while cooking in a hot skillet creates those irresistible charred spots. The dough is forgiving, easy to work with, and comes together quickly, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.

Serve it warm, brush on some garlic butter, and you’ll feel like you’ve brought the restaurant experience home.

If you try this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @Weeknight_Homemaker—I’d love to see your naan creations!

Happy baking! ✨

💛 Lauren

The Weeknight Homemaker