Cheese Stuffed Garlic Naan: Soft, Buttery, and Meltingly Delicious

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheese stuffed garlic naan is the ultimate comfort food — soft, pillowy bread brushed with buttery garlic and filled with gooey, melted cheese. It’s an irresistible combination of flavors and textures that brings restaurant-quality Indian bread right into your kitchen. I once served these alongside butter chicken, and they disappeared faster than the main course! The aroma of garlic butter sizzling on freshly cooked naan is pure magic, and when you tear one open to reveal the melted cheese inside — it’s perfection. Whether you serve it as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, this naan is guaranteed to steal the show.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour — The foundation for soft and tender naan.

Instant yeast — Helps the dough rise and gives it that classic airy texture.

Sugar — Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.

Salt — Enhances the dough’s flavor and complements the richness of the butter and cheese.

Yogurt — Adds tanginess and softness to the dough, making it pliable and fluffy.

Warm water or milk — Activates the yeast and keeps the dough moist.

Butter or ghee — For brushing over the naan to make it rich and flavorful.

Garlic cloves — Freshly minced for that unmistakable, fragrant garlic kick.

Cheese — A mix of mozzarella for stretchiness and cheddar for flavor works beautifully.

Fresh cilantro or parsley — Adds a touch of freshness and color.

Directions

In a mixing bowl, combine warm water (or milk), sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. Add yogurt, salt, and flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5–6 minutes until smooth and elastic, then cover and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Meanwhile, prepare the garlic butter by melting butter and mixing it with minced garlic and chopped cilantro. Set aside.

Once the dough has risen, divide it into equal portions. Roll out one piece into a small circle, place a generous amount of cheese in the center, then cover with another rolled dough piece or fold over and pinch the edges to seal. Gently flatten and roll into a 6–7 inch round.

Heat a cast-iron skillet or tawa over medium-high heat. Place the naan in the hot skillet and cook until bubbles form and the underside is golden, about 1–2 minutes. Flip and cook the other side until golden spots appear. Brush immediately with the garlic butter mixture while hot.

Serve warm and watch the cheese stretch with every bite.

Essential Equipment

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

• Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
• large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
• Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
• Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
• Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
• 9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
• knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
• Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6–8 naans. Preparation takes 15 minutes, rising about 1 hour, and cooking 15 minutes. Total time: about 1 hour 30 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container or foil at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warm. Avoid microwaving as it can make the naan chewy. You can also freeze cooked naan for up to 2 months — reheat directly from frozen.

Variations and Customizations

Cheesy Garlic & Herb Naan — Mix dried oregano or basil into the dough for extra flavor.

Spicy Kick — Add chopped green chilies or a pinch of red chili flakes to the filling.

Triple Cheese Naan — Use mozzarella, cheddar, and cream cheese for ultimate indulgence.

Whole Wheat Naan — Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.

Paneer-Stuffed Naan — Use crumbled paneer with herbs and spices instead of mozzarella.

Garlic Butter Explosion — Double the garlic butter and drizzle over just before serving.

Stuffed Spinach & Cheese — Add sautéed spinach to the cheese filling for extra greens.

Vegan Version — Use vegan yogurt, plant-based cheese, and vegan butter.

Grilled Naan — Cook on an outdoor grill for smoky, charred edges.

Dessert Twist — Fill with cream cheese and sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top for a sweet version.

FAQs

Can I make this without yeast?

Yes, use ½ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon baking powder instead for a quick version.

What’s the best cheese for stuffing?

Mozzarella melts beautifully, but cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even feta can be used.

Can I bake the naan instead of cooking on a skillet?

Yes, bake at 475°F (245°C) on a preheated pizza stone for 6–8 minutes.

How do I get the signature naan bubbles?

Cook on high heat — the quick, intense heat causes the dough to puff up.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate overnight and bring to room temperature before cooking.

Can I add garlic inside the dough?

Absolutely, mix minced garlic directly into the dough for an extra garlicky flavor.

Is naan the same as pita?

No, naan is softer and richer due to the addition of yogurt and butter.

How do I prevent cheese from leaking?

Seal the edges tightly and roll gently to avoid tearing.

Can I use self-rising flour?

Yes, skip the yeast and adjust water slightly — it will yield a faster rise.

What can I serve with this naan?

Perfect with curries, soups, or even as a base for cheesy flatbread pizza.

Conclusion

Cheese stuffed garlic naan is a warm, buttery delight that brings together fluffy bread, fragrant garlic, and molten cheese in the most comforting way possible. Simple yet indulgent, it’s a recipe that elevates any meal — whether paired with rich curry, served as a snack, or enjoyed on its own. Once you’ve tried this homemade version, you’ll never go back to store-bought naan again. Each bite is soft, cheesy, and irresistibly garlicky — the perfect balance of flavor and comfort.

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