Soft, warm, and pillowy—homemade naan bread is the kind of comfort food that brings joy to the table. Whether you’re dipping it into creamy curries, scooping up lentils, or just enjoying it brushed with garlic butter, naan bread is a beloved staple in many cuisines. And the best part? You don’t need a tandoor oven or complicated tools to make this magic at home.

This easy homemade naan bread recipe is fluffy, slightly chewy, and has just the right amount of char for that authentic touch. It’s made with basic pantry ingredients, cooked on a hot skillet, and takes only a few minutes per side. With its rich aroma and a hint of buttery crispness, naan is the perfect companion to countless dishes—or simply enjoyed on its own.

Ingredients for this Easy Homemade Naan Bread Recipe

2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 teaspoon sugar
½ cup warm water (110°F)
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup plain yogurt (room temperature)
¼ cup whole milk (room temperature)
1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
1 teaspoon salt
Butter (for brushing)
Optional toppings: minced garlic, chopped cilantro, sesame seeds

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 10 minutes, until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates the yeast is active and ready to use.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, yogurt, milk, and oil. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a sticky dough forms. If needed, sprinkle in a little extra flour to bring it together.

Step 3: Knead and Let Rise

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Divide and Shape

Punch down the dough and divide it into 6–8 equal portions. Roll each piece into a ball. Using a rolling pin, roll each ball into an oval or teardrop shape about ¼-inch thick. Don’t worry about perfect edges—rustic shapes add character.

Step 5: Cook the Naan

Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until hot. Place one rolled dough piece onto the dry skillet. Cook for 1–2 minutes until bubbles form, then flip and cook another 1–2 minutes. Both sides should have golden brown spots.

Step 6: Brush and Serve

While the naan is still hot, brush generously with melted butter or garlic butter. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro or your favorite toppings. Serve immediately with your favorite curries, stews, or dips.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Naan)

Calories: ~210
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 200mg
Sugar: 2g
Note: Nutrition values may vary based on size and toppings used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this naan without yeast?

Yes! You can substitute baking powder and baking soda (1 tsp baking powder + ¼ tsp baking soda) for yeast. The result will be slightly different in texture but still delicious.

2. Is yogurt necessary?

Yogurt adds softness and tang to the dough. If unavailable, substitute with sour cream or a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt.

3. Can I cook naan in the oven instead of a skillet?

Yes. Preheat your oven with a pizza stone or baking sheet at 500°F. Bake each naan for 2–3 minutes until puffed and golden, then brush with butter.

4. How do I make garlic naan?

Add finely minced garlic to the dough before cooking or sprinkle it on top right after flipping in the skillet, then brush with garlic butter.

5. Can I use whole wheat flour?

You can replace up to 50% of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. The naan will be slightly denser but still very tasty.

6. Why didn’t my naan puff up?

If the pan isn’t hot enough or the dough was rolled too thick/thin, it may not puff. Make sure the skillet is properly preheated.

7. What can I serve naan with?

Serve it with Indian dishes like butter chicken, dal, tikka masala, or use it as a wrap for sandwiches or dips like hummus.

8. How can I keep naan warm for a party?

Wrap cooked naan in foil and keep in a warm oven (around 200°F) until ready to serve.

Easy Homemade Naan Bread Recipe

Author: Nora Sinclair
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6–8 naan breads

Print Recipe

Description

Warm, soft, and irresistibly chewy, this easy homemade naan bread is the ultimate comfort food that fits right into your kitchen. Whether you’re craving a quick breakfast, an easy dinner side, or healthy snack ideas, this naan bread has you covered. It’s a foolproof and easy recipe made with simple pantry staples and cooked right on a skillet—no oven or tandoor required. Lightly charred on the outside with a tender center, it’s perfect for scooping up your favorite dips, wrapping around grilled meats, or enjoying with soups and stews. With its buttery finish and customizable toppings like garlic or herbs, it’s a versatile bread that feels like a warm hug with every bite.

Instructions

In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 10 minutes until frothy.
In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add yeast mixture, yogurt, milk, and oil. Mix to form a sticky dough.
Knead dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth.
Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Punch down dough and divide into 6–8 equal parts. Roll each into a ball, then flatten into oval shapes about 1/4-inch thick.
Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each naan for 1–2 minutes per side until bubbles form and charred spots appear.
Brush hot naan with butter or garlic butter. Add cilantro or other toppings if desired.
Serve warm with your favorite dishes or dips.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour rising time)
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Side Dish