Cheese-stuffed garlic naan is the ultimate comfort food—soft, pillowy flatbread loaded with gooey melted cheese and brushed with rich, aromatic garlic butter. Whether served alongside a hearty curry or enjoyed on its own, this naan is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
While restaurant-style naan is delicious, making it at home allows you to customize the flavors, control the quality of ingredients, and enjoy freshly made, hot-off-the-pan goodness. The best part? You don’t need a tandoor (clay oven) to make perfect naan! A simple skillet or tawa is all it takes to recreate this classic Indian favorite in your own kitchen.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through an easy step-by-step process to prepare cheese-stuffed garlic naan from scratch. From selecting the best cheese for stuffing to cooking techniques and serving suggestions, this recipe will turn you into a naan-making pro!
Essential Ingredients & Tools
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a look at the key ingredients and tools you’ll need to make this cheese-stuffed garlic naan.
Ingredients for the Dough
A well-made dough is the foundation of soft and fluffy naan. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): The base ingredient for soft and pliable naan. You can substitute with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
- Baking powder (½ teaspoon) & Baking soda (½ teaspoon): These act as leavening agents, making the naan fluffy without the need for yeast.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances the flavor of the dough.
- Sugar (½ teaspoon): Helps with slight caramelization and adds a hint of sweetness.
- Plain yogurt (¼ cup): Adds richness, tenderness, and slight tanginess.
- Warm milk (½ cup): Helps bind the dough and make it softer. You can also use warm water as a substitute.
- Oil (1 tablespoon): Keeps the dough moist and prevents it from drying out.
Ingredients for the Cheese Filling
The filling is what makes this naan extra special! Choose your favorite cheese or mix multiple cheeses for the best results:
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded): Provides a perfect gooey, stretchy texture.
- Cheddar cheese (½ cup, optional): Adds sharpness and extra flavor.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Enhances the taste of the cheese filling.
- Red chili flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional): Adds a hint of spice.
- Chopped cilantro (1 teaspoon): Fresh herbs bring a pop of flavor to the cheese filling.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Coating
A rich garlic butter coating makes this naan irresistible:
- Butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Gives a golden, glossy finish.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the naan with bold garlic flavor.
- Fresh cilantro (1 tablespoon, chopped): Adds freshness and aroma.
Kitchen Tools Needed
To make this naan at home, you don’t need any fancy equipment—just a few basic kitchen tools:
- Mixing bowl: For preparing the dough.
- Rolling pin: To roll out the naan evenly.
- Tawa or cast-iron skillet: A heavy-bottomed pan is ideal for cooking naan on the stovetop.
- Pastry brush: For brushing garlic butter on the naan.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cheese-Stuffed Garlic Naan
Now that we have all the ingredients and tools ready, let’s get into the step-by-step process of making soft, cheesy, and garlicky naan at home.
Preparing the Dough
A good naan starts with a well-kneaded dough. Follow these steps to prepare the perfect base:
- Mix Dry Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon sugar. Stir well to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Add Wet Ingredients – Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and add ¼ cup yogurt, ½ cup warm milk, and 1 tablespoon oil.
- Knead the Dough – Mix everything together using a spoon or your hands until the mixture comes together. Transfer to a clean surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until you get a smooth and elastic dough. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of milk.
- Rest the Dough – Place the kneaded dough back into the bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rest for 1 hour. Resting allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out later.
Preparing the Cheese Filling
While the dough is resting, prepare the delicious cheese stuffing:
- Grate the Cheese – In a bowl, combine 1 cup shredded mozzarella (or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for more flavor).
- Add Seasonings – Mix in ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional for spice), and 1 teaspoon chopped cilantro for extra freshness.
- Keep the Filling Ready – Set the bowl aside until it’s time to stuff the naan.
Rolling & Stuffing the Naan
Once the dough has rested, it’s time to shape and stuff the naan with cheese:
- Divide the Dough – Transfer the dough to a clean surface and divide it into 4 equal portions. Roll each piece into a smooth ball.
- Roll Out a Small Circle – Take one dough ball and roll it into a 5-inch circle (about the size of your palm). Lightly dust the surface with flour if needed.
- Add the Cheese Filling – Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the cheese mixture in the center of the dough circle.
- Seal the Naan – Gather the edges of the dough and pinch them together at the top, sealing the cheese inside. Gently flatten the stuffed dough ball.
- Roll Again – Lightly roll the stuffed dough ball into a 6-7 inch oval or round shape. Be gentle to prevent the cheese from breaking through.
Cooking the Naan on a Tawa or Skillet
Cooking naan at the right temperature is key to getting a perfect soft texture with beautiful golden spots. Follow these steps:
- Preheat the Skillet – Place a cast-iron skillet or tawa on medium-high heat. Let it heat for about 2 minutes until hot.
- Place the Naan on the Skillet – Carefully transfer the rolled-out naan to the hot skillet. You should see small bubbles forming on the surface within 30 seconds.
- Flip the Naan – Once bubbles appear and the bottom gets golden brown spots, flip the naan and cook the other side for about 1-2 minutes.
- Press Lightly – Use a spatula or a clean cloth to gently press the naan, helping it cook evenly and puff up slightly.
- Final Flip – Flip the naan one last time and cook for another 30 seconds. Remove from heat.
Brushing with Garlic Butter
The final step is adding a delicious garlic butter coating:
- Prepare the Garlic Butter – In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons melted butter with 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro.
- Brush the Naan – Using a pastry brush, generously coat the hot naan with garlic butter for a rich, aromatic finish.
- Serve Hot – Enjoy your freshly made cheese-stuffed garlic naan while it’s warm and melty!
Expert Tips & Variations for Cheese-Stuffed Garlic Naan
Now that you’ve mastered the basic cheese-stuffed garlic naan recipe, let’s take it up a notch! Here are some expert tips, variations, and creative ways to customize your naan for different flavors and dietary preferences.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cheese-Stuffed Garlic Naan
- Use Fresh Dough – Naan dough is best when made fresh. If you store it, keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours in an airtight container and let it come to room temperature before rolling.
- Don’t Overstuff – While it’s tempting to add lots of cheese, overstuffing may cause the naan to burst while rolling or cooking. 2-3 tablespoons of cheese per naan is the perfect amount.
- Seal the Edges Well – To prevent cheese from leaking out, make sure you pinch and seal the edges of the dough properly after stuffing.
- Roll Gently – Once stuffed, roll the naan lightly. If you apply too much pressure, the cheese might break through the dough.
- Cook on High Heat – Naan needs to cook quickly to achieve soft, fluffy layers with slight charring. Make sure your skillet or tawa is hot before placing the naan.
- Press Lightly While Cooking – Using a spatula or clean cloth, gently press the naan as it cooks. This helps it puff up and develop airy pockets inside.
- Garlic Butter is a Must! – Don’t skip the garlic butter coating. It enhances the flavor and gives the naan a perfect golden shine.
- For Extra Crispy Naan – After brushing with garlic butter, place the cooked naan directly on an open flame for 5-10 seconds for a slight char.
Creative Variations of Cheese-Stuffed Garlic Naan
Want to try something different? Here are some fun and delicious ways to switch up your naan:
1. Spicy Cheese-Stuffed Naan 🔥
- Add chopped green chilies or extra red chili flakes to the cheese filling for a spicy kick.
- Brush the naan with chili-garlic butter instead of regular garlic butter.
2. Herbed Cheese Naan 🌿
- Mix dried oregano, basil, and thyme into the dough for an herby twist.
- Use garlic herb butter for brushing instead of plain garlic butter.
3. Whole Wheat Cheese Naan (Healthier Version) 🥗
- Swap all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier naan.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt for extra protein.
4. Indian-Style Paneer-Stuffed Naan 🇮🇳
- Instead of mozzarella, use grated paneer (Indian cottage cheese) mixed with spices.
- Add garam masala and chopped coriander for an authentic Indian flavor.
5. Cheesy Garlic Naan with Jalapeños 🌶️
- Add chopped jalapeños to the cheese mixture for a Tex-Mex twist.
- Sprinkle some smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor.
Vegan & Dairy-Free Alternatives
Want to make a vegan version of cheese-stuffed garlic naan? No problem! Here’s how:
Dough: Replace yogurt with coconut yogurt and milk with almond milk or water.
Cheese Filling: Use vegan shredded cheese (like Daiya or Violife).
Butter Coating: Swap butter for olive oil or vegan butter with minced garlic.
What’s Next?
Now that you know all the expert tricks and creative variations, let’s explore how to serve cheese-stuffed garlic naan with delicious pairings.
Serving Suggestions & Storage Tips for Cheese-Stuffed Garlic Naan
Cheese-stuffed garlic naan is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Whether you’re serving it alongside rich Indian curries or using it as a base for creative fusion recipes, there are countless ways to enjoy this delicious naan. In this section, we’ll explore the best pairings, creative serving ideas, and how to store and reheat your naan for later enjoyment.
Best Dishes to Pair with Cheese-Stuffed Garlic Naan
1. Classic Indian Curries 🍛
Naan and curry are a match made in heaven! Serve your cheesy naan with:
- Butter Chicken – The rich, creamy tomato-based sauce pairs beautifully with cheesy naan.
- Paneer Tikka Masala – A great vegetarian option with bold flavors.
- Dal Makhani – This slow-cooked black lentil dish complements the soft, garlicky naan.
- Palak Paneer – The creamy spinach and paneer curry balances the richness of the cheese filling.
2. Soups & Stews 🍲
Use cheese-stuffed naan as a side for warming soups:
- Tomato Soup – Dip your naan into a bowl of creamy tomato soup for a comforting meal.
- Lentil Soup – A hearty and healthy pairing with Indian or Middle Eastern flavors.
- Mushroom Soup – The umami-rich mushrooms and gooey cheese make a great combo.
3. Creative Fusion Ideas 🌍
Want to experiment? Try these unique ways to enjoy naan:
- Naan Pizza – Use cheese-stuffed naan as a pizza base, top with marinara sauce, more cheese, and toppings of your choice.
- Naan Sandwich – Fold it in half and stuff it with grilled veggies, chicken, or falafel.
- Naan Quesadilla – Cut it into triangles and dip in salsa or guacamole for an Indian-Mexican fusion.
- Breakfast Naan Wrap – Wrap scrambled eggs, bacon, and avocado inside for a delicious breakfast.
How to Store Cheese-Stuffed Garlic Naan
If you have leftover naan or want to prepare it in advance, here’s how to store it properly:
Refrigeration (Short-Term Storage)
- Let naan cool completely before storing it.
- Wrap it in foil or plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container.
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing (Long-Term Storage)
- Stack the cooled naans with parchment paper between each piece to prevent sticking.
- Place in a ziplock bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.
Cheese-stuffed garlic naan pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Here are some great options:
- Serve it alongside a Creamy Tomato Soup for a classic combo.
- Enjoy it as a side to a hearty meal like Easy Sausage Cacciatore.
- For a nutritious pairing, try it with a Roasted Broccoli and Carrots side dish.
How to Reheat Cheese-Stuffed Garlic Naan
1. Reheating on a Tawa or Skillet (Best Method)
- Heat a dry tawa or skillet over medium heat.
- Place the naan on the pan and warm it for 1-2 minutes per side until hot.
- Brush with a little extra garlic butter for freshness.
2. Reheating in the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wrap the naan in foil and bake for 5-7 minutes.
- Unwrap and broil for 1-2 minutes for a crispier texture.
3. Reheating in the Microwave
- Place naan on a plate and cover with a damp paper towel.
- Microwave for 30-45 seconds until warm.
- This method works but may make the naan slightly soft.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What kind of cheese goes on garlic naan?
The best cheese for garlic naan should be melty, creamy, and flavorful. The most commonly used options include:
- Mozzarella – The top choice for its stretchiness and gooey texture.
- Cheddar – Adds a sharp, rich flavor.
- Monterey Jack – Mild with good melting properties.
- Gouda – Slightly smoky and creamy.
- Paneer – A firmer option, often used in Indian-style naan (though it doesn’t melt like mozzarella).
For extra flavor, you can mix different cheeses. A blend of mozzarella and cheddar works wonderfully for a gooey and flavorful filling!
2. Which cheese is used in cheese naan?
Traditional cheese naan recipes often use:
- Mozzarella for its smooth melt and stretch.
- Processed cheese in restaurants for a soft, creamy texture.
- Paneer for an Indian-style filling that is soft but not too melty.
- Cream cheese for an extra rich and tangy taste.
For a classic cheese naan, mozzarella or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar is the best choice!
3. What is the best combination with garlic naan?
Garlic naan pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some of the best combinations:
Indian Curries:
- Butter Chicken
- Paneer Tikka Masala
- Dal Makhani
- Chana Masala
Soups & Stews:
- Tomato Soup
- Lentil Soup
- Creamy Mushroom Soup
Creative Pairings:
- Garlic Naan Pizza – Use it as a pizza base.
- Naan Wraps – Fill with grilled veggies or chicken.
- Cheesy Naan Quesadilla – Dip in salsa or guacamole.
No matter how you serve it, garlic naan makes everything better! 🍞🧄🧀
4. Why do you put yogurt in naan bread?
Yogurt is an essential ingredient in naan because it:
- Makes the dough soft and tender – The acidity in yogurt helps break down gluten, resulting in a softer texture.
- Adds slight tanginess – It enhances the flavor of the naan.
- Acts as a natural leavening agent – When combined with baking powder and baking soda, yogurt helps create air pockets for a fluffy texture.
- Keeps the naan moist – Prevents it from drying out, especially when cooked on high heat.
If you don’t have yogurt, you can substitute it with buttermilk or a mix of milk and a teaspoon of lemon juice to achieve a similar effect.
Conclusion
Cheese-stuffed garlic naan is the perfect combination of soft, fluffy bread, gooey melted cheese, and aromatic garlic butter. Whether you’re serving it with classic Indian curries, soups, or getting creative with fusion dishes like naan pizza and wraps, this homemade version is guaranteed to impress.
By following this step-by-step guide, you now know:
How to make the perfect naan dough without yeast.
The best cheese options for a gooey and flavorful filling.
Pro tips for rolling, stuffing, and cooking naan like a pro.
Storage and reheating techniques to keep your naan fresh.
Creative variations and vegan alternatives to suit different tastes.
Making naan at home is easier than you think, and once you try this recipe, you might never go back to store-bought versions! So, grab your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and enjoy homemade cheesy garlic naan fresh from your kitchen. 🍞🧄🧀
Cheese-Stuffed Garlic Naan – Soft, Cheesy & Buttery Flatbread
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling Pin
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tawa or cast-iron skillet
- Pastry brush
- Spatula
Ingredients
- For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- ¼ cup plain yogurt
- ½ cup warm milk
- 1 tablespoon oil
- For the Cheese Filling:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese optional
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes optional
- 1 teaspoon chopped cilantro
- For the Garlic Butter:
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro chopped
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
- Add yogurt, warm milk, and oil. Mix to form a dough.
- Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Cover and rest for 1 hour.
- Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling
- Combine mozzarella, cheddar, black pepper, red chili flakes, and chopped cilantro in a bowl.
- Set aside until ready to use.
- Step 3: Shape & Fill the Naan
- Divide dough into 4 equal balls.
- Roll one ball into a 5-inch circle.
- Place 2-3 tablespoons of cheese filling in the center.
- Seal the edges, flatten slightly, and roll into a 6-7 inch oval.
- Step 4: Cook the Naan
- Heat a cast-iron skillet on medium-high heat.
- Place the naan on the hot skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbles form.
- Flip and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and brush with garlic butter.
- Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Serve hot with curries, soups, or yogurt dip.
- Enjoy fresh for the best flavor!
Notes
Add chopped jalapeños or paneer for extra flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat on a hot skillet for the best texture.