Save Experience a delightful fusion of Italian and Indian flavors with this Crispy Garlic Parmesan Naan Pizza. This quick and flavorful flatbread pizza utilizes golden garlic naan as a sturdy, aromatic crust that is brushed with a rich garlic butter and finished with fresh, vibrant toppings. It is a perfect solution for an easy weeknight meal that tastes gourmet but requires minimal effort.
Save The secret to the success of this dish lies in the layering process. By starting with a base of melted butter infused with fresh garlic and parsley, then adding a preliminary layer of Parmesan cheese, you create a foundation of flavor that penetrates the naan as it bakes. The addition of fresh baby spinach and juicy cherry tomatoes balances the richness of the cheese for a well-rounded bite.
Ingredients
- Base: 4 pieces garlic naan (store-bought or homemade)
- Garlic Butter: 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted), 3 garlic cloves (finely minced), 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (finely chopped, optional), 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- Toppings: 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced), 1/2 cup baby spinach leaves, freshly ground black pepper (to taste), 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional), olive oil (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Step 2: Prepare Garlic Butter
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and sea salt. Stir well to integrate the aromatics.
- Step 3: Season the Base
- Place the naan breads on the prepared baking sheet. Use a pastry brush to generously coat each piece of naan with the garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle exactly half of the Parmesan cheese evenly over the naan.
- Step 4: Add Toppings
- Top each naan with the shredded mozzarella, the remaining Parmesan, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and baby spinach leaves. Season to taste with black pepper and red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat.
- Step 5: Bake
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and melted, and the edges of the naan have turned golden and crisp.
- Step 6: Finishing Touches
- Remove from the oven and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Allow the pizzas to cool for 2 minutes before using a knife or pizza cutter to slice. Serve warm.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the crispiest results, make sure your oven is fully preheated before sliding the baking sheet inside. Using parchment paper is a key step to help the cheese that may bubble over become crispy rather than sticky. When preping, ensure the garlic is minced very finely so it distributes evenly within the butter. For those managing allergies, always verify the labels on store-bought naan as they may contain wheat, milk, egg, or traces of tree nuts.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is a wonderful canvas for creativity. For a more vegetable-forward version, try adding sautéed mushrooms, olives, or sliced bell peppers. If you prefer a meat-heavy pizza, cooked chicken, pepperoni, or thin slices of prosciutto work beautifully. To make this dish entirely plant-based, simply substitute the butter, naan, and cheeses with your favorite vegan alternatives.
Serviervorschläge
Pair these naan pizzas with a light, refreshing beverage to complement the savory garlic and cheese. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red is an excellent choice. These pizzas serve four and contain approximately 380 calories and 14 grams of protein per serving, making them a satisfying main dish when served alongside a simple garden salad.
Save With a total time of just 22 minutes, these Crispy Garlic Parmesan Naan Pizzas prove that you don't need a lot of time to create a meal that is both comforting and impressive. Whether you are serving them for a quick family dinner or as a unique appetizer for guests, they are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Cooking Guide
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Prepare the garlic butter mixture and chop vegetables up to a day in advance. Store separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake just before serving for optimal crispiness.
- → What other toppings work well?
Sautéed mushrooms, black olives, bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or cooked chicken make excellent additions. For a meatier version, try pepperoni, prosciutto, or Italian sausage.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled pieces in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as the naan becomes chewy.
- → Can I use homemade naan?
Absolutely. Homemade naan works beautifully and allows you to control the ingredients. Ensure the naan is fully cooled before brushing with garlic butter and adding toppings.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish is naturally vegetarian. Ensure your Parmesan is made with vegetarian microbial enzymes rather than animal rennet. For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and cheese alternatives.