Flatbread has been a beloved food staple in cultures around the world for centuries. From Mexican tortillas to Indian rotis, these versatile breads serve as both utensils and meals in themselves.
You’ll find endless variations that can be made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
These flatbread recipes will give you easy, delicious options for any meal of the day. Many can be prepared in under 30 minutes and require minimal baking skills.
With options ranging from classic onion flatbreads to creative salmon flatbreads made in an air fryer, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy this universal food.
1. Classic Margherita Flatbread
This quick and easy Margherita flatbread comes together in just 20 minutes with a handful of simple ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without much effort.
You’ll need store-bought flatbread, fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, garlic, and basil for this recipe. The combination creates a fresh, flavorful pizza that’s light yet satisfying.
To prepare, simply top your flatbread with the ingredients and bake until the cheese melts and the edges become crispy.
You can customize the recipe by adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.
2. Caramelized Onion and Feta Flatbread
Caramelized Onion and Feta Flatbread offers a perfect blend of sweet and salty flavors. The sweet caramelized onions pair beautifully with tangy feta cheese to create a delicious contrast.
To make this flatbread, start with pizza dough or pre-made flatbread and brush it with garlic-infused olive oil.
Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the surface, then sprinkle crumbled feta on top.
You can enhance this recipe by adding roasted red peppers for extra flavor and color. Some versions also include Serrano ham or prosciutto for a savory protein addition.
The final result is a crisp yet chewy flatbread with rich, complementary flavors that work perfectly together.
3. Chicken Alfredo Flatbread
Chicken Alfredo Flatbread is a tasty twist on traditional pizza. It combines crispy flatbread with creamy Alfredo sauce and juicy chicken pieces.
This dish makes a perfect alternative to ordering pizza on a Friday night. You can customize it with your favorite toppings to make it your own.
The base typically includes a creamy spinach Alfredo sauce that adds rich flavor. Adding grilled chicken gives it protein and makes it more filling.
Many recipes use store-bought flatbread for convenience, but you can also use frozen bread dough.
Top it all with cheese for that perfect melty finish.
4. Mediterranean Vegetable Flatbread
Mediterranean Vegetable Flatbread is a flavor-packed dish that combines roasted veggies with creamy cheese on a crispy base. It’s ready in about 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
You can top your flatbread with sweet peppers, red onions, and mushrooms for a savory combination. A sprinkle of feta or soft goat cheese adds a tangy creaminess that balances the roasted vegetables.
Brush the flatbread with olive oil and herbs before adding toppings for extra flavor.
For a finishing touch, add fresh basil after baking.
This versatile recipe works as an appetizer to share or as a complete meal for yourself.
5. Buffalo Chicken Flatbread
Buffalo chicken flatbread combines spicy buffalo sauce with tender chicken for a delicious meal or appetizer. This tangy, creamy dish is perfect for game day gatherings or quick weeknight dinners.
You can use naan bread as a simple base, then top with shredded chicken tossed in buffalo sauce. Add a layer of cheddar and mozzarella cheese for that perfect melt.
For extra flavor, include a drizzle of ranch dressing and sprinkle some green onions on top.
The combination of creamy, spicy, and tangy flavors makes this flatbread irresistible.
This recipe works well as a low-carb option if you use the right flatbread base.
6. Pesto, Tomato, and Mozzarella Flatbread
This flatbread combines classic Italian flavors for a quick and delicious meal. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or as an appetizer when friends come over.
Start with naan bread or pre-packaged thin pizza crust as your base. Spread a layer of fresh pesto, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese and sliced cherry tomatoes.
Bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes until the cheese melts and edges turn golden.
For the finishing touch, drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle fresh basil on top.
You can customize it by adding extras like olives, artichokes, or sun-dried tomatoes for more flavor.
7. BBQ Pulled Pork Flatbread
BBQ pulled pork flatbread combines savory meat with a touch of sweetness for a crowd-pleasing dish. You can use pre-cooked pulled pork to save time when preparing this recipe.
Start with par-baked flatbread or naan as your base. Top it with BBQ sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and pulled pork. Some recipes add thinly sliced red onions for extra flavor.
Grill your flatbreads for 8-10 minutes until the cheese melts completely.
For a flavor boost, try adding a jalapeño-ranch slaw on top after cooking.
This flatbread makes a perfect game day snack or casual dinner option. It’s simple enough to throw together quickly for unexpected guests.
8. Mushroom and Truffle Oil Flatbread
This flatbread combines earthy mushrooms with luxurious truffle oil for an impressive dish. Cremini mushrooms work beautifully, but you can use any variety you prefer.
Start by caramelizing onions or shallots to create a sweet base. Spread ricotta cheese on your flatbread or naan before adding sautéed mushrooms.
For extra flavor, include garlic and fresh herbs like rosemary.
Top with mozzarella or Parmesan cheese before baking until crispy.
After baking, drizzle with truffle oil and add fresh arugula for a peppery finish. You can also add prosciutto for a meaty element.
This flatbread makes a sophisticated appetizer or light meal that will impress your guests.
9. Spicy Chorizo and Pepper Flatbread
This flavorful flatbread combines spicy chorizo with colorful peppers for a dish that’s perfect for entertaining. The combination of savory sausage and sweet peppers creates a delicious contrast.
To make this flatbread, spread a thin layer of sauce on your base, then top with cooked chorizo, red and yellow peppers. Some recipes include a lemon ricotta or harissa oil for extra flavor.
You can use store-bought flatbread or make your own with simple ingredients like self-raising flour, Greek yogurt, and salt.
This versatile dish works well as an appetizer, lunch, or casual dinner option.
For extra flavor, consider adding gouda cheese or feta to complement the spicy chorizo.
10. Goat Cheese and Fig Flatbread
Goat cheese and fig flatbread combines sweet and tangy flavors for a delicious meal. The creamy goat cheese balances perfectly with the natural sweetness of fresh figs.
Start with naan or flatbread as your base. Spread fig butter or arrange fresh fig slices on top. Add crumbled goat cheese and mozzarella for extra creaminess.
Many recipes include caramelized onions for depth of flavor.
Bake at 400°F until the cheese melts and edges crisp.
After baking, top with fresh arugula and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or honey. For protein, consider adding prosciutto or chicken before baking.
This flatbread works great as an appetizer or light dinner option.
11. Smoked Salmon and Dill Flatbread
This quick and impressive flatbread combines the rich flavor of smoked salmon with fresh dill. It makes a perfect appetizer or light meal that will wow your guests.
The base is a crispy flatbread topped with herbed cream cheese that complements the cold-smoked salmon perfectly. Add capers for a salty pop and fresh dill for brightness.
Everything bagel seasoning can be sprinkled on top for extra flavor. This combination creates a delicious nod to traditional lox and cream cheese.
You can prepare this flatbread in just 5 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute entertaining. It’s especially perfect for brunch gatherings.
12. Prosciutto and Arugula Flatbread
This elegant flatbread combines salty prosciutto with peppery arugula for a perfect flavor balance. You can prepare it quickly for weeknight dinners or as an impressive appetizer for guests.
Start with a flatbread base like naan or pre-made dough. Top with fontina or mozzarella cheese before baking at 400°F until crisp.
After baking, add fresh arugula and thin slices of prosciutto. For extra flavor, add goat cheese or brie and drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
You can customize this recipe with additional toppings like minced garlic, ricotta dollops, or even dates for a sweet contrast to the savory elements.
13. Spinach and Artichoke Flatbread
Spinach and artichoke flatbread turns the popular dip into a delicious meal. This easy recipe combines creamy cheese, spinach, and artichoke hearts on a crispy flatbread base.
You can make this dish in just 25-35 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. The flatbread is topped with a speedy homemade spinach artichoke mixture and lots of melty cheese.
Some versions include roasted red peppers and red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
You can create personal-sized portions to stay on plan if you’re tracking meals.
This crowd-pleaser disappears quickly when served – test kitchens report it doesn’t last long once it’s out of the oven!
14. Butternut Squash and Sage Flatbread
This fall-inspired flatbread combines sweet butternut squash with aromatic sage for a delicious meal. The contrast of flavors works perfectly together.
You can use naan as an easy base for this recipe. Top it with roasted butternut squash, caramelized onions, and crispy sage leaves.
For extra flavor, add some creamy burrata or cheddar cheese on top. The cheese melts beautifully with the other ingredients.
This flatbread makes a great appetizer or light dinner during autumn months. You can easily customize it by adding apple slices or a drizzle of honey for sweetness.
15. Caprese Flatbread with Balsamic Drizzle
Caprese flatbread combines crispy flatbread with classic Italian flavors for a quick and delicious meal. You can use store-bought flatbreads as your base to save time.
Layer your flatbread with fresh ingredients including sliced mozzarella, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves. Some recipes add spinach pesto or red onion for extra flavor.
The star of this dish is the balsamic glaze drizzled on top, which adds a sweet and tangy finish. This flatbread is perfect for using up summer garden produce.
You can customize your flatbread by adding fontina cheese or using homemade dough with 00 flour for an authentic touch.
16. Roasted Red Pepper and Hummus Flatbread
This flatbread combines the zesty flavors of roasted red pepper hummus with a soft, chewy base.
You can use traditional pizza dough as your foundation for a hearty bite-sized vegetarian snack.
Top your flatbread with store-bought or homemade roasted red pepper hummus, then sprinkle with feta cheese for a tangy finish. The combination creates a Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.
For extra flavor and texture, consider adding artichoke hearts, capers, red onion, cherry tomatoes, or kalamata olives.
This versatile flatbread works well as an appetizer or light meal that you can customize to your taste preferences.
17. Greek Pita Flatbread with Tzatziki
Greek pita flatbreads are soft, fluffy, and perfectly foldable even when cold. These Mediterranean staples are ideal for making homemade gyros or serving with souvlaki kebabs.
The bread is easy to make and creates a tender, chewy base for your favorite fillings.
Some recipes require just two ingredients and minimal prep time.
Pair your flatbread with homemade tzatziki sauce made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, dill, and lemon juice. The cool, tangy sauce complements the warm bread perfectly.
You can fill your pita with Greek chicken for authentic gyros or use the flatbread as a base for Mediterranean-inspired pizzas with a tzatziki drizzle.
18. Honey Mustard Chicken Flatbread
Honey mustard chicken flatbread combines sweet and tangy flavors in one delicious meal. You can make this tasty dish with simple ingredients you might already have.
Start by marinating chicken breast in a mixture of honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and seasonings. This adds amazing flavor to the meat.
After grilling or cooking the chicken, place it on a flatbread with your favorite toppings. Many recipes suggest using Herbes de Provence olive oil for extra flavor.
You can add colorful bell peppers to brighten up your flatbread. The combination of honey mustard chicken with fresh vegetables creates a perfect balance of flavors.
19. Thai Peanut Chicken Flatbread
Thai Peanut Chicken Flatbread brings the flavors of Southeast Asia to your pizza night. This tasty dish combines naan or flatbread with a creamy peanut sauce base.
Top your flatbread with chicken, colorful veggies like carrots, red bell peppers, and red onions. Cheese is optional but adds a nice melty texture.
After baking, sprinkle with fresh herbs like cilantro and Thai basil. Add crushed peanuts for extra crunch. Some versions include sweet mango for a perfect balance of flavors.
You can use store-bought flatbread or naan to make this recipe quick and easy for weeknight dinners.
20. Zucchini and Goat Cheese Flatbread
Zucchini and goat cheese create a perfect summer flatbread combination. The creamy tang of goat cheese balances beautifully with the mild, fresh zucchini.
Start with a flatbread base and layer on ricotta for extra creaminess. Add thinly sliced zucchini that has been sautéed with garlic, herbs, and a touch of red pepper flakes for flavor.
Top with dollops of goat cheese before baking until the edges are golden. Some versions include fresh corn and tomatoes for more summer flavor.
For extra punch, add a drizzle of pesto sauce before serving. This versatile dish works as an appetizer, lunch, or light dinner option.
21. Lemon Herb Shrimp Flatbread
This flatbread combines succulent shrimp with bright lemon and herbs for a quick, delicious meal. The buttery garlic flavor pairs perfectly with melty mozzarella cheese.
You’ll need naan flatbreads, shrimp, lemon, herbs, and shredded mozzarella. Adding cremini mushrooms and shallots creates depth of flavor.
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the flatbreads on a baking sheet and top with the shrimp mixture and cheese.
The lemon juice is key to this recipe, providing a refreshing contrast to the creamy elements. For extra flavor, try adding a touch of pesto and fresh arugula after baking.
This dish makes a perfect light dinner or impressive appetizer for guests.
The Origins of Flatbread
Flatbread stands as one of humanity’s oldest prepared foods, dating back thousands of years to early civilizations. Simple in concept yet diverse in execution, these unleavened bread varieties appear in nearly every culture around the world.
Historical Significance
Flatbreads first emerged around 10,000 BCE as humans began cultivating grains. Archaeological evidence shows flatbread was made in ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Indus Valley civilizations.
Early flatbreads were made by mixing ground grains with water to form a paste. This mixture was then cooked on hot stones or in fire pits. The simplicity of flatbread made it accessible to all social classes.
For many civilizations, flatbread served as both food and eating utensil. People used pieces of flatbread to scoop up other foods, similar to how many cultures still eat today.
Flatbread’s long shelf life made it valuable for travelers and armies on the move. This practical aspect helped spread flatbread techniques across trade routes and during military campaigns.
Cultural Variations
Today, flatbreads appear in hundreds of variations across the globe. In South Asia, chapati and roti are daily staples made from whole wheat flour, while naan is a leavened version cooked in tandoor ovens.
Middle Eastern flatbreads include pita, which puffs up during baking to create a pocket, and lavash, a thin bread often used for wraps. In the Mediterranean, you’ll find focaccia in Italy and pide in Turkey.
Latin American cultures developed their own flatbreads like tortillas, made from corn or wheat flour. These serve as the foundation for tacos, enchiladas, and quesadillas.
Each region adapts flatbread to local ingredients and cooking methods. For example, Ethiopian injera uses teff flour and fermentation to create a spongy texture perfect for scooping stews.
The universal appeal of flatbread comes from its versatility and simplicity. You can find versions that are thick or thin, soft or crispy, plain or filled with various ingredients.
Techniques For Perfect Flatbread
Making delicious flatbread at home depends on mastering a few key techniques. The right approach to ingredients and tools can transform your flatbread from ordinary to extraordinary.
Choosing The Right Ingredients
For excellent flatbread, flour selection matters tremendously. Bread flour creates chewier texture with better gluten development, while all-purpose flour yields a softer result. Many recipes benefit from a blend of both.
Yeast quality is critical for proper rising. Fresh active dry or instant yeast works best, and should be properly activated in warm water (105-110°F) with a pinch of sugar.
Salt isn’t just for flavor – it strengthens the dough structure and controls yeast activity. Use about 1.5-2% of the flour weight.
Water temperature affects fermentation. Cooler water (65-70°F) creates slower fermentation and better flavor, while warmer water speeds things up.
For enriched flatbreads, consider adding:
- Olive oil (for tenderness)
- Herbs (for flavor)
- Yogurt (for tanginess)
Essential Tools And Equipment
A reliable kitchen scale ensures consistency in your flatbreads. Measuring by weight rather than volume gives more accurate results every time.
A good mixing bowl should be large enough to allow dough expansion – typically 2-3 times the initial dough volume. Glass or ceramic bowls help maintain even temperatures.
For cooking flatbreads, you have several effective options:
- Cast iron skillet: Retains heat beautifully
- Pizza stone: Creates crisp bottoms when used in an oven
- Griddle: Perfect for cooking multiple flatbreads simultaneously
A rolling pin with adjustable thickness rings helps create uniform flatbreads. For hand-stretched varieties, your fingers are the best tools – just be gentle to preserve air bubbles.
A bench scraper makes handling sticky dough easier and helps with cleanup. Invest in good kitchen towels to cover dough during resting periods.
