If you’ve ever enjoyed the soft, pillowy goodness of homemade naan bread at a restaurant, you’ll be thrilled to know you can make a quick and easy version right at home.
Using simple ingredients and a hot skillet, this yogurt-based naan recipe delivers the same chewy texture and satisfying flavor without the need for yeast—or even a tandoor oven.
Why We Love This Easy Naan Bread Recipe
There’s something deeply comforting about freshly made bread, and this is no exception. It’s soft, pillowy, and perfectly blistered pockets that make it irresistible.
The addition of yogurt creates a slight tang and chewiness, making it stand out from other types of flatbreads. Plus, it’s quick to make and incredibly versatile, whether you’re pairing it with a creamy curry, using it for wraps, or turning it into a delicious flatbread pizza.
Homemade naan also allows you to experiment with flavors and textures in a way that store-bought versions simply can’t match.
It’s a humble recipe made from basic pantry staples, yet the results are extraordinary. And while it’s commonly associated with Indian cuisine, similar flatbreads are known around the world, such as fry bread, pita, and even tortillas.
Each culture brings its unique twist to these beloved bread varieties, and this quick yogurt-based naan is an easy way to add your spin to a global favorite.
Quick and Simple. No waiting for dough to rise. This bread comes together in under 30 minutes.
Homemade Goodness. When you make it yourself, it’s easy to avoid preservatives and control your ingredients.
Versatile. Pair with your favorite curry, garlic butter sauce, use as a wrap, or turn it into flatbread pizzas.
Beginner-Friendly. No special equipment needed, just a rolling pin, a skillet, and your hands.
Soft Fluffy Easy Homemade Naan Bread No Yeast
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Ingredients
- 2 Cups All-Purpose Flour plus extra for rolling
- 1 Teaspoon Baking Powder
- ½ Teaspoon Baking Soda
- ½ Teaspoon Sea Salt
- ½ Cup Plain Greek Yogurt or regular yogurt
- ¼ Cup Water Warm Water
- 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
- Optional toppings: melted butter minced garlic, or sesame seeds
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.2 Cups All-Purpose Flour, 1 Teaspoon Baking Powder, ½ Teaspoon Baking Soda, ½ Teaspoon Sea Salt
- Stir in the yogurt, warm water, and olive oil. Mix until a soft dough forms.½ Cup Plain Greek Yogurt, ¼ Cup Water, 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil, Optional toppings: melted butter
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 2-3 minutes until smooth. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle with a little more flour.
- Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten into a circle about 6-8 inches in diameter.
- Heat a cast iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Place one piece of dough into the hot skillet and cook until bubbles form, about 1-2 minutes. Flip and cook the second side for another 1-2 minutes, pressing gently with a spatula for even cooking. Repeat with the remaining dough.
- Brush the warm naan with melted butter or garlic butter for extra flavor. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store cooled naan in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Freezing. Stack naan with parchment paper between each piece, then place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating. Warm in a dry skillet for 1-2 minutes or wrap in foil and heat in a 350°F oven until soft.
Homemade Naan Bread Recipe Variations
Garlic Naan. Add minced garlic to the dough or brush with garlic butter after cooking.
Whole Wheat Naan. Substitute half or all of the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
Stuffed Naan. Fill with mashed potatoes, cheese, or spiced meat before rolling.
Sweet Naan. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on the dough for a sweet treat.
Additional Recipe Variations
Cheese-Stuffed Naan. Stuff each piece of dough with shredded mozzarella or paneer before rolling it out. The melted cheese creates a gooey, indulgent filling.
Herb Naan. Mix fresh or dried herbs like cilantro, parsley, or thyme into the dough for a fragrant and flavorful bread.
Spicy Naan. Add chili flakes, ground cumin, or paprika to the dough for a bold and spicy kick.
Seeded Naan. Sprinkle sesame seeds, nigella seeds, or poppy seeds on the rolled-out dough before cooking for added texture and flavor.
Sweet Coconut Naan. Add a touch of sugar and shredded coconut to the dough for a mildly sweet variation, perfect for desserts or breakfast.
Fry Bread-Style Naan. Deep fry the dough instead of dry frying it in a skillet for a crispy, decadent twist reminiscent of Native American fry bread.
Vegan Naan. Use plant-based yogurt and replace butter with olive oil or vegan margarine to make this naan recipe completely dairy-free.
Gluten-Free Naan. Substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and adjust the liquid ratio for a soft and pliable gluten-free version.
Whole Wheat Naan. Swap half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier, more nutritious flatbread.
Stuffed Potato Naan. Mash some spiced potatoes (with turmeric, cumin, and coriander) and fill the naan dough with the mixture before rolling it out for a delicious Indian-inspired side dish.
Is This Naan Called Fry Bread or Something Else?
While this quick naan recipe shares similarities with other flatbreads, it’s not exactly the same as fry bread.
Fry bread is typically deep-fried and associated with Native American cuisine, while naan is traditionally baked in a tandoor oven or cooked on a skillet. However, naan can be pan-fried to mimic the texture of fry bread, making it a versatile alternative.
Naan is also often compared to pita bread, though the two differ in texture and preparation methods.
Pita tends to be drier and forms a pocket when baked, while naan is softer, chewier, and doesn’t puff in the same way. In some regions, naan is simply referred to as a type of “flatbread” or “leavened bread,” highlighting its universal appeal across cultures.
How can I pair naan?
Naan pairs beautifully with curries, soups, or dips like hummus and tzatziki. It also works as a base for flatbread pizzas or wraps.
Bring the Homestead to Your Table
This easy yogurt naan recipe embodies the essence of homesteading. Turning simple ingredients into something delicious, versatile, and satisfying.
Whether you’re using it to scoop up your favorite curry, enjoy as a wrap, or as a homemade pizza crust, naan is a staple that’s sure to become a family favorite.
An easy and quick bread recipe.