Cheesy Garlic Naan Bread – Soft, Buttery & Homemade

Cheesy garlic naan bread is the perfect blend of soft, bubbly bread and gooey, melty cheese, all infused with the irresistible aroma of garlic butter. Traditionally made in a tandoor, this homemade version brings the magic of Indian-style flatbread right into your kitchen with nothing more than a hot skillet. Whether it’s your first time making dough or you’re a naan fan looking to level up, this cheesy twist will become a favorite. Imagine pulling apart a hot piece, cheese stretching, and garlic butter dripping—yeah, it’s that good.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Naan Bread

Cheesy garlic naan bread is more than a side—it’s the star of any meal. Here’s why you’ll crave it:

• Melty, cheesy center: A delicious combo of mozzarella and parmesan.
• Beginner-friendly dough: Easy to knead and forgiving, even without fancy equipment.
• Perfect with anything: Curries, soups, grilled meats—you name it.
• Crowd-pleasing: It’s buttery, garlicky, and impossible not to love.

Once you try it, you’ll never want plain naan again.

The Story Behind Cheesy Garlic Naan Bread

Cheesy garlic naan bread takes inspiration from classic Indian naan but adds a gooey twist. Here’s how it came to be:

1. Naan’s origin: A beloved flatbread in Indian and Central Asian cuisine, cooked in tandoors.
2. Cheese evolution: Western twists like mozzarella and parmesan made naan more indulgent.
3. Garlic goodness: Garlic butter naan became a restaurant staple, now made easily at home.
4. Fusion favorite: Loved across cuisines, from Indian to Italian-inspired meals.

This cheesy version blends comfort and culture in every bite.

Key Ingredients in Cheesy Garlic Naan Bread

• All-purpose flour: The base of your soft and stretchy naan dough.
• Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise for pillowy, bubbly bread.
• Whole milk yogurt: Adds tang and tenderness to the dough.
• Olive oil: Makes the dough supple and easy to roll.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully inside the naan.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty bite to the filling.
• Minced garlic & butter: Brushed on for that signature garlic punch.
• Chopped cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish to the garlic butter.

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Naan Bread (Step-by-Step)

Mastering Cheesy Garlic Naan Bread at Home

1. Proof the yeast
   Mix warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast in a small bowl. Let it sit 5–10 minutes until foamy—this means your yeast is alive and ready.
2. Make the dough
   In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine flour, yogurt, warm water, olive oil, salt, and the proofed yeast. Knead until smooth (by hand or mixer), about 1 minute.
3. Let it rise
   Transfer to an oiled bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and a warm towel. Let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
4. Prepare garlic butter
   In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and chopped cilantro. Set aside for brushing later.
5. Divide and stuff
   Once the dough has risen, divide it into 7–8 pieces. Flatten one portion slightly, fill the center with mozzarella and parmesan, then seal into a ball.
6. Roll it out
   Roll each filled dough ball into a thin, wide circle. Be gentle to avoid tearing but aim for an even thickness.
7. Cook the naan
   Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place one naan on the hot surface. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and puffed.
8. Brush and serve
   While still warm, brush with garlic cilantro butter. Repeat with the rest. Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.

Cheesy Garlic Naan Bread Tips and Twists

Make your cheesy garlic naan bread even better with these simple tips and flavor ideas:

Helpful Tips:

1. Let the yeast proof fully before using.
2. Use whole milk yogurt for richer dough.
3. Don’t skip the resting time—it ensures fluffiness.
4. Roll gently to avoid tearing the filled dough.
5. A hot skillet is key for that signature bubbly crust.

Fun Variations:

• Spicy naan: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.
• Italian-style: Use basil and oregano in place of cilantro.
• Sweet twist: Swap cheese for Nutella and brush with cinnamon butter.

Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips

Keep your cheesy garlic naan bread fresh and ready anytime:

• Storage: Wrap cooled naan in foil or airtight container. Store in the fridge for 2–3 days.
• Reheating: Toast in a skillet over medium heat for 1 minute per side to refresh the crust and melt the cheese again.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare and refrigerate the dough a day in advance. Let it come to room temp before rolling and stuffing.

Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Garlic Naan Bread

Cheesy garlic naan bread goes with almost anything—here’s how to enjoy it best:

• With curries: Pair with creamy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna for indulgence on every level.
• For dipping: Use it to scoop up Easy Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup.
• As a wrap: Try it with Grilled Chicken Wraps or fill with roasted veggies.
• On the side: Serve alongside Deviled Egg Pasta Salad or grilled meats for a summer BBQ upgrade.
• Solo snack: Toast and eat it plain with a cup of tea or a cold drink.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry?
Yes, just skip proofing and mix it straight into the dry ingredients.

Can I make it gluten-free?
You can try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary.

Can I freeze the cooked naan?
Absolutely. Freeze between parchment, then reheat in a pan or oven.

Is there a dairy-free version?
Use dairy-free yogurt, vegan cheese, and plant-based butter alternatives.

Why didn’t my dough rise?
The yeast may have expired or the water was too hot. Use fresh yeast and warm (not hot) water.

Enjoy Your Cheesy Garlic Naan Bread

There’s something truly comforting about making cheesy garlic naan bread from scratch. The warm dough, melty cheese, and garlic butter combine into something magical. It’s simple enough for beginners, but satisfying enough for seasoned home cooks. Next time you’re planning a cozy dinner or just need a cheesy carb fix, this naan is the answer.

Explore More Recipes Like This

Love the flavor of cheesy garlic naan bread? Try these other delicious recipes from our kitchen:

• Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti: The perfect saucy main to pair with your naan.
• Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs: Creamy, herbed meatballs that complement the cheesy bread beautifully.
• Grilled Chicken Wraps: Use leftover naan as the wrap itself!
• Best Carrot Cake Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note.
• Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: More garlic, more butter, more joy.