Garlic Naan Margherita Pizzas

Garlic Naan Margherita Pizzas are a brilliant fusion of Indian and Italian cuisines, offering a quick and flavorful meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. By using pillowy naan as a base and brushing it with fragrant garlic butter, you create a crust that is both aromatic and satisfyingly crisp. Topped with rich marinara, gooey mozzarella, and fresh basil, this dish is a crowd-pleasing favorite that works as both a main course and a delightful appetizer.

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The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Instead of waiting for dough to rise, the store-bought naan provides a perfect shortcut without sacrificing texture. The addition of a homemade garlic butter brush elevates the crust, ensuring every bite is infused with savory flavor and a hint of sea salt.

Ingredients

• 4 pieces naan bread (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or sliced
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper (optional garnish)
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Mix Garlic Butter

In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, finely minced garlic, olive oil, and sea salt.

3. Brush the Naan

Arrange the naan breads on the prepared baking sheet. Use a pastry brush to spread the garlic butter mixture generously over the surface of each naan.

4. Add Sauce and Cheese

Spread approximately 3–4 tablespoons of marinara sauce evenly over each naan. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.

5. Bake

Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the naan are golden and crisp.

6. Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven. Top immediately with fresh torn basil and a sprinkle of black pepper or red pepper flakes if desired. Slice and serve warm.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To get the most out of this recipe, ensure your oven is fully preheated before putting the pizzas in. This helps the edges of the naan crisp up quickly while the cheese melts. If you like a more intense garlic flavor, you can let the garlic infuse in the melted butter for a few minutes before brushing it onto the bread.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is highly versatile. For extra flavor, you can add sliced tomatoes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving. If naan isn't available, pita bread or flatbread makes an excellent substitute. To make a vegan version, simply use plant-based butter and a high-quality vegan mozzarella alternative.

Serviervorschläge

Serve these pizzas alongside a crisp green side salad or a warm bowl of tomato soup for a complete meal. They are also perfect for parties; simply slice each naan into eight small wedges to serve as a convenient and tasty appetizer.

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Whether you need a fast lunch or a stress-free dinner, these Garlic Naan Margherita Pizzas deliver incredible flavor with minimal effort. The combination of savory garlic, rich tomato, and fresh herbs is a timeless classic that feels brand new when served on a pillowy naan base. Enjoy your warm, bubbly creation!

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Prepare the garlic butter mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also pre-shred the cheese and wash the basil. However, assemble and bake just before serving for the crispiest texture.

→ What other toppings work well?

Sliced tomatoes, mushrooms, bell peppers, red onion, or olives make excellent additions. For a protein boost, try grilled chicken, crumbled bacon, or spinach. The garlic butter base pairs well with almost any topping combination.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store cooled pieces in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the naan soggy.

→ Can I freeze these?

Yes, freeze unbaked assembled pieces on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the cooking time. Alternatively, freeze leftovers and reheat in the oven.

→ What's the best way to achieve crispy edges?

Preheat your oven thoroughly and place the baking sheet on the center rack. Avoid overloading with sauce and cheese, as excess moisture can prevent crisping. For extra crunch, brush the edges with a little more garlic butter before baking.