If you’re craving something warm, flavorful, and irresistibly buttery, then this Garlic and Butter Flatbread Recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites. Combining the simplicity of everyday pantry staples like flour and yeast with the rich, aromatic punch of garlic-infused butter, this flatbread is perfect for everything from a quick snack to an elegant appetizer. It’s soft, golden, and infused with fresh parsley, making every bite a comforting hug wrapped in deliciousness. Trust me, once you try this Garlic and Butter Flatbread Recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Garlic and Butter Flatbread Recipe calls for a handful of simple, essential ingredients that come together beautifully to create an unforgettable taste and texture. Each one plays a crucial role—from the flour that gives the flatbread its chewy bite to the garlic butter that delivers the perfect savory finish.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of your flatbread, providing structure and a tender chew.
- 1 tsp instant yeast: Helps the dough rise, giving it lightness and airiness.
- 1 tsp sugar: Feeds the yeast for a beautiful, even rise and a touch of sweetness.
- 3/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and brings balance to the dough.
- 3/4 cup warm water: Activates the yeast and hydrates the flour for a supple dough.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds moisture and a subtle richness to the flatbread’s crumb.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted): The star of the garlic butter, giving a luscious, silky finish.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the butter with its bold, savory aroma and flavor.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): Brightens the dish with its fresh, herbal notes and a pop of color.
How to Make Garlic and Butter Flatbread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Slowly pour in the warm water as you stir, bringing the dough together into a shaggy mass. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic—this kneading step develops the gluten that gives flatbread its perfect chew. Form the dough into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl, covering it with a clean towel. Let it rest in a warm spot for about an hour until it doubles in size and becomes nice and puffy.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter
While the dough is rising, melt the unsalted butter gently in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant—about 1 to 2 minutes. Make sure you don’t brown the garlic; you want that mild, aromatic garlic flavor infusing the butter. Once ready, remove from the heat and set aside so the garlic butter is ready to be brushed over the flatbread right after cooking.
Step 3: Shape the Flatbread
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any trapped air. Divide the dough into two equal portions for two flatbreads. Roll each piece on a floured surface into a 1/4-inch thick round or oval shape—don’t worry about perfect circles, rustic shapes add charm! The dough should feel soft but sturdy enough to hold together when cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Flatbread
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until hot. Place one dough round into the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, watching for golden brown spots to form on the bottom. Then flip and cook the other side until it’s equally golden and cooked through. Repeat with the second piece of dough. The flatbreads should puff slightly and develop those beautiful charred spots that add flavor and texture.
Step 5: Add Garlic Butter
Once the flatbreads are cooked and still warm, generously brush them with the garlic butter mixture. This is the moment when the flatbread transforms into a rich, savory delight, soaked in that irresistible garlic and butter aroma. Don’t be shy with the butter; it’s what makes this recipe a true showstopper.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top the garlic buttered flatbreads with a shower of freshly chopped parsley. This simple garnish adds a fresh burst of color and herbal brightness that perfectly balances the richness of the butter and garlic. Slice into wedges and serve immediately while warm and fragrant.
How to Serve Garlic and Butter Flatbread Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the go-to garnish that adds color and a light herbal note, but you can also try sprinkling some grated Parmesan, red chili flakes, or a pinch of sea salt for extra layers of flavor and texture. These little touches elevate the flatbread beyond simple snack status.
Side Dishes
This Garlic and Butter Flatbread Recipe pairs wonderfully with tomato-based soups, stews, or hearty salads. It’s perfect for dipping into hummus, tzatziki, or even your favorite marinara sauce. Think of it as the perfect companion that complements and elevates a whole meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the flatbread stacked in a rustic basket lined with a linen napkin for a cozy vibe. Or cut into bite-sized fingers for cocktail parties or game days. You can even use it as the base for bruschetta by adding diced tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on top. The possibilities are endless when you start with such a flavorful, versatile flatbread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep the flatbread soft, it’s best to enjoy it fresh, but properly stored bread can still delight even the next day.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze your cooked flatbreads in a zip-top freezer bag with parchment paper between each piece to prevent sticking. This Garlic and Butter Flatbread Recipe freezes beautifully and can be stored for up to 2 months, making it a perfect make-ahead option.
Reheating
Reheat flatbreads gently in a warm skillet or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bread chewy or soggy. A quick toast in the skillet is the best way to revive that freshly made texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use regular yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast for instant yeast, but you’ll need to proof it in warm water first before mixing it with the dry ingredients. Instant yeast is just a bit faster and easier to work with for this particular recipe.
Can I add herbs to the dough itself?
Absolutely! Adding finely chopped rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough during mixing can infuse extra flavor. Just remember to adjust the salt a little if your herbs are salty or pungent.
Is this flatbread gluten-free?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, you could experiment with a gluten-free flour blend that works for bread baking, but results and texture may vary.
What’s the best type of pan to cook the flatbread?
A heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan works best because it retains heat evenly and creates those beautiful golden spots. Non-stick pans can also work but might not give quite the same charred effect.
Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?
You can make it vegan by swapping out the butter for a plant-based alternative and using olive oil for brushing. The garlic infused oil will still deliver wonderful flavor without compromising on richness.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic and Butter Flatbread Recipe is one of those simple pleasures that feels like a warm embrace on a plate. Its ease, vibrant flavor, and versatility make it an absolute joy to make and share. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into creating this golden, garlicky delight—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Garlic and Butter Flatbread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Bread, Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: International
Description
This Garlic and Butter Flatbread recipe is a quick and delicious homemade bread option that combines soft, fluffy flatbread with a rich garlic butter topping. Perfect for serving as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, this recipe uses simple ingredients and a skillet method to achieve a golden, flavorful flatbread ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp instant yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Garlic Butter Topping
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, mixing as you go until a dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Shape into a ball, place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Make the garlic butter: While the dough rises, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Shape the flatbread: Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. Divide into 2 equal portions and roll each on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness in a circle or oval shape.
- Cook the flatbread: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Place one dough round in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until golden spots form on the bottom. Flip and cook another 2-3 minutes until cooked through and golden. Repeat with the second flatbread.
- Add garlic butter: Brush the hot flatbreads generously with the prepared garlic butter while still warm to infuse flavor.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for freshness and color. Slice and serve immediately.
Notes
- Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
- Kneading the dough sufficiently creates a soft and elastic flatbread texture.
- You can substitute olive oil with another neutral oil if preferred.
- For extra flavor, add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the garlic butter.
- This flatbread is best served fresh but can be reheated gently on a skillet or toaster oven.
