Save Elevate your lunch routine with this Brown Butter Garlic Naan Grilled Cheese. This fusion dish takes the comforting, aromatic flavors of traditional garlic naan and combines them with the gooey, melted goodness of a classic grilled cheese sandwich. The secret lies in the brown butter, which adds a deep, nutty richness that perfectly complements the fresh herbs and sharp garlic.
Save Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend lunch, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The mozzarella provides the perfect cheese pull, while the blend of parsley, chives, and optional red pepper flakes ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 large naan breads
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 tablespoons (60 g) unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Brown the Butter
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Continue cooking, swirling occasionally, until the butter foams and turns golden brown with a nutty aroma (about 3–4 minutes).
- Step 2: Infuse Garlic
- Add the minced garlic to the brown butter and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove the skillet from heat.
- Step 3: Prepare the Naan
- Brush one side of each naan generously with the brown butter and garlic mixture.
- Step 4: Layer Ingredients
- Place one naan, buttered side down, on a clean cutting board. Evenly sprinkle the mozzarella cheese, parsley, chives, thyme (if using), red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper over the naan.
- Step 5: Assemble Sandwich
- Top with the second naan, buttered side up, to form a sandwich.
- Step 6: Grill to Perfection
- Wipe out the skillet, then return to medium heat. Carefully transfer the assembled naan sandwich to the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the naan is crispy and golden and the cheese is melted.
- Step 7: Rest and Serve
- Remove from the skillet, let rest for 1 minute, then slice and serve warm.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra crispiness, grill over medium-low heat to let the cheese melt fully without burning the naan. Pressing down gently with a spatula during the cooking process ensures even browning and a superior crunch.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Swap mozzarella for a blend of mozzarella and fontina or cheddar for extra flavor. You can also add thinly sliced tomatoes or a handful of baby spinach before grilling for a fresh, garden-inspired twist.
Serviervorschläge
This sandwich is best served warm alongside a bowl of classic tomato soup or a spicy chutney for dipping. The contrast between the buttery bread and a tangy dip creates a perfectly balanced meal.
Save This Brown Butter Garlic Naan Grilled Cheese is a simple yet indulgent meal that brings a gourmet touch to your kitchen. Once you try the combination of nutty brown butter and garlic-crusted naan, you'll never go back to standard bread again.
Kitchen Help
- → What makes brown butter special for this dish?
Brown butter develops a nutty, caramelized flavor through gentle heating that transforms regular butter into something extraordinary. The milk solids toast to golden brown, creating deep, rich flavor that perfectly complements the garlic and herbs while helping the naan achieve beautiful golden coloration.
- → Can I use store-bought naan?
Absolutely. Store-bought naan works wonderfully for this preparation. Look for soft, pliable naan without excessive oil or seasoning. If your naan is particularly thick, consider slicing it horizontally to create two thinner pieces for easier eating and more even cooking.
- → What cheese alternatives work well?
While mozzarella provides classic melt and mild flavor, try blending with fontina for nuttiness, sharp cheddar for bite, or Gruyère for depth. A Mexican blend adds fun flair, or paneer honors the naan's Indian roots. Just ensure whatever cheese you choose melts well and doesn't overpower the delicate brown butter flavor.
- → How do I prevent burning the naan?
Medium heat is crucial—too high and the naan burns before cheese melts. Watch carefully and adjust heat as needed. The brown butter mixture contains milk solids that can darken quickly, so keep the skillet moving and don't walk away. If cooking multiple batches, wipe the skillet between sandwiches to prevent burned bits from affecting flavor.
- → Can I make these ahead for meal prep?
Best enjoyed fresh for optimal crispiness, but you can prepare components ahead. Brown the butter with garlic up to a day in advance and refrigerate—gently reheat before brushing. Shred cheese and chop herbs beforehand. Assembly happens quickly, so you can have these ready in under 10 minutes when hunger strikes.
- → What pairs well with this sandwich?
Tomato soup is a classic companion, but consider mango chutney or mint-cilantro chutney for dipping. A simple cucumber raita with cumin provides cool contrast. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh green salad with vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like cauliflower and bell peppers.