Name: Easy Homemade Naan Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1/2 cup warm water (105-110°F); 0.25 ounce packet instant dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons); 2 teaspoons granulated sugar; 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for the skillet); 1/4 cup plain yogurt; 1 large egg, beaten; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled; 2 tablespoons melted salted butter; 2 teaspoons garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons fresh chopped parsley

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 10 reviews

If you have ever craved that perfectly soft, chewy, and pillowy bread that accompanies Indian dishes so wonderfully, then this Easy Homemade Naan Bread Recipe is going to become your new best friend in the kitchen. It captures all the magic of restaurant-style naan without requiring any fancy equipment—just your hands, a bowl, and a trusty cast iron skillet. This recipe transforms simple pantry staples into warm, fragrant flatbreads that are utterly irresistible and perfect for soaking up curries, scooping up dips, or even enjoying on their own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a soft, light beige dough resting on a white marbled surface. The dough appears puffy and slightly uneven with small air pockets visible within its surface, giving it a spongy texture. It is rounded with some folds and creases, showing it has been kneaded or shaped by a woman's hand. The white marbled background is subtle and clean, focusing all attention on the dough. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Easy Homemade Naan Bread Recipe is in its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward but each plays an important role in delivering that soft texture, gentle chew, and rich flavor that make naan so beloved. From the warm water that activates the yeast to the yogurt that tenderizes the dough and gives it a subtle tang, every element adds something special.

Warm water (105-110°F): Perfect temperature to wake up the yeast without killing it, essential for that fluffy rise.
Instant dry yeast: The magical leavening agent that makes the dough rise and gives naan its airy texture.
Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast, helping it activate and bubble up brilliantly.
Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds moisture and richness while keeping the dough tender and pliable.
Plain yogurt: Gives the dough a luxurious softness and a subtle tang that elevates the flavor.
Large egg: Binds the dough and contributes to a slight richness without weighing it down.
Salt: Balances all the flavors and enhances the overall taste of the bread.
All-purpose flour: Provides the structure needed to create that signature chewy texture.
Melted salted butter, garlic, and fresh parsley (optional): When combined, these make the perfect garlic-herb butter for brushing the naan and packing on that irresistible aroma and flavor.

How to Make Easy Homemade Naan Bread Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by combining the warm water, instant dry yeast, and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Let this mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly—this signals that your yeast is alive and well. If you don’t see that foam, it’s best to start over with fresh yeast because it won’t give you the rise your naan needs.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Next, add the olive oil, plain yogurt, beaten egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir everything together until smooth and fully combined. This blend of ingredients will give your dough a tender crumb and a lovely flavor nuance that you won’t want to miss.

Step 3: Incorporate the Flour

Gradually add the all-purpose flour into your wet ingredients. Begin stirring with a wooden spoon until the dough becomes shaggy and starts pulling away from the sides of the bowl. Then, switch to your hands and knead gently until the dough forms a smooth, shiny ball. Remember, don’t overwork it—just knead enough to bring it all together. If the dough feels overly sticky, sprinkle in a little extra flour, but only as needed.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Lightly oil a clean bowl, place your dough inside, and dust the top with a bit of flour. Cover it with plastic wrap and allow it to rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, usually about 1 to 1.5 hours. A cozy corner or even a heating pad set low can speed up this process. While you wait, get ready for the deliciousness to come!

Step 5: Shape the Naan

Once risen, transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Sprinkle just a little flour over the dough and your hands, then divide it into 6 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball by gently stretching the dough surface and tucking it underneath. Flatten each dough ball with your palm, then roll it out into a roughly 6-inch circle about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Don’t stress if the shapes aren’t perfectly round—this adds to their homemade charm.

Step 6: Cook the Naan

Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and brush it with a teaspoon of oil. To prevent excess flour from burning and creating bitterness, flip the rolled dough back and forth between your hands to shake it off before placing it into the pan. Cook each naan until the top is bubbly and the bottom has golden brown spots, about 60 to 90 seconds. Flip and cook for another 45 to 60 seconds until beautifully blistered and golden. Keep your heat in check to avoid charring—lower it to medium if your pan gets too hot.

Step 7: Add Garlic-Herb Butter and Serve

For an extra layer of indulgence, melt some salted butter and mix in fresh minced garlic and chopped parsley. Brush this fragrant butter over the warm naan as soon as they come off the skillet. The butter seeps into the soft, warm bread, making every bite heavenly and irresistible.

How to Serve Easy Homemade Naan Bread Recipe

A close-up view of soft, round naan bread with a light golden color and slightly chewy texture, showing small brown charred spots in circular patches on the surface. The naan is stacked in layers, with one torn piece held up revealing the fluffy inside. Small green herb sprinkles decorate the naan, and it is set on a white plate placed against a white marbled background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Naan on its own is a delight, but adding a touch of garlic-herb butter, a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, or a dash of flaky sea salt makes it even more special. You can also try brushing naan with melted ghee for a richer flavor or scattering toasted sesame seeds for added texture.

Side Dishes

This Easy Homemade Naan Bread Recipe pairs beautifully with any Indian curry, whether it’s a creamy butter chicken, spicy chana masala, or a rich saag paneer. It’s also fantastic alongside dips like raita, chutney, or hummus, making it a versatile choice for any meal or gathering.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, use naan as a base for quick flatbread pizzas topped with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. You can also cut the naan into triangles and serve them as chips with your favorite dips or even stuff them with kebabs and veggies for a delicious handheld wrap.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover naan (which can happen, but it’s certainly not a problem!), wrap them tightly in foil or place in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping them covered well helps preserve their softness and prevents drying out.

Freezing

Naan freezes beautifully, making it a wonderful make-ahead option. After cooking, let the naan cool completely, then stack and separate each piece with parchment paper before sealing in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen naan can last up to three months and will maintain its delicious texture when thawed.

Reheating

For best results, reheat naan on a hot skillet or in a hot oven until warmed through and slightly crisp on the outside. Avoid microwaving alone as it can turn the naan tough or chewy. A quick brush of butter or olive oil before reheating helps restore their fresh-baked softness and flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this Easy Homemade Naan Bread Recipe without yogurt?

Yogurt adds tenderness and a subtle tang that enhances the traditional naan flavor, but you can substitute it with buttermilk or even milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice if necessary. The texture may vary slightly but the bread will still be delicious.

Do I have to use a cast iron skillet to cook naan?

While a cast iron skillet is ideal because it retains heat evenly and creates those signature charred spots, you can also use a heavy-bottomed non-stick or stainless steel pan. The important part is to keep the pan hot and well-oiled.

Can I add toppings to the dough before cooking?

Absolutely! Sprinkle toppings like nigella seeds, toasted sesame seeds, or finely chopped herbs on the rolled-out dough before placing it in the skillet. This adds extra flavor and makes your naan even more exciting.

How do I know if my yeast is still good?

If your yeast mixture doesn’t foam and bubble within 10 minutes of combining with warm water and sugar, it’s likely expired or inactive. Fresh yeast is crucial for a good rise, so it’s worth getting a new packet.

Is this Easy Homemade Naan Bread Recipe suitable for beginner bakers?

Definitely! This recipe is incredibly approachable because it requires minimal kneading, no special equipment, and forgiving ingredients. Plus, the step-by-step instructions will build your confidence and soon you’ll be a naan pro!

Final Thoughts

Making your own Easy Homemade Naan Bread Recipe is an absolute joy and incredibly rewarding. From the moment you mix that simple dough to the first warm, buttery bite, it’s a delicious journey that brings a touch of India right to your table. So grab your bowl and skillet, and start cooking—you’ll be amazed how easy and satisfying homemade naan can be. Your taste buds will thank you!