No-Oven Stovetop Bread

This No-Oven Stovetop Bread is soft, fluffy, and perfectly golden—all made right on the stovetop without ever turning on the oven. Whether I’m out of oven space or just want a quick and easy way to make fresh bread, this recipe always delivers. It’s made with simple ingredients and is ideal for everyday use, from sandwiches to dipping in soups.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it proves that fresh, homemade bread doesn’t require an oven. It’s fast, forgiving, and budget-friendly. The dough comes together with basic pantry staples, and the stovetop method gives it a beautiful crust and a soft, pillowy center. I can enjoy fresh, warm bread without heating up the kitchen, and that’s a win in any season.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • All-purpose flour (or a mix with whole wheat flour)
  • Instant yeast or active dry yeast
  • Warm water
  • Sugar
  • Salt
  • Olive oil or melted butter

directions

  1. I start by activating the yeast in warm water with a bit of sugar (if using active dry yeast). If using instant yeast, I mix it straight into the flour.

  2. I combine the flour, salt, and oil in a large bowl, then gradually mix in the water until a soft dough forms.

  3. I knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

  4. I cover the dough and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

  5. Once risen, I divide the dough into smaller portions (depending on the size of the pan) and shape them into rounds or flat discs.

  6. I heat a non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-low heat and brush it lightly with oil.

  7. I cook each piece of dough for about 4–5 minutes per side, flipping once, until golden and cooked through.

  8. I let the bread cool slightly before serving, but I usually can’t resist having a warm piece right away.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 small flatbreads or 2–3 larger ones. It takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes total, including rising time—10 minutes to mix and knead, 1 hour to rise, and 30–35 minutes to cook in batches.

Variations

  • I sometimes mix in garlic, herbs, or grated cheese into the dough for extra flavor.

  • For a sweeter twist, I add cinnamon and a touch of honey, then serve with jam or fruit spread.

  • I’ve used dairy-free milk in place of water for a richer texture, and it works beautifully.

  • I also love brushing the warm bread with melted butter and herbs just after cooking.

storage/reheating

I store the cooled bread in an airtight container or wrap it in foil at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, I freeze it in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet for a couple of minutes or pop it in the toaster or microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, I often use a 50/50 mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour. It gives a nuttier flavor and slightly denser texture.

Does the bread rise well without an oven?

Absolutely. The stovetop gives it a great crust, and as long as the skillet is covered or the heat is steady, it puffs up nicely.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, I let the dough rise in the fridge overnight. I bring it to room temperature before shaping and cooking.

What kind of pan works best?

I prefer a cast iron skillet for even browning, but a non-stick pan also works well.

Is this bread good for sandwiches?

Definitely. I slice the larger rounds in half horizontally or use the smaller ones for wraps or sliders.

Conclusion

This No-Oven Stovetop Bread is a lifesaver when I want fresh bread without the hassle of baking. It’s soft, warm, and so easy to make with just a few ingredients and a skillet. Whether I’m using it as a side, sandwich base, or just enjoying it with olive oil and herbs, this stovetop method proves that fresh homemade bread is always within reach.

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No-Oven Stovetop Bread

No-Oven Stovetop Bread

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  • Author: Mary
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30–35 minutes (in batches)
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 small breads or 2–3 large
  • Category: Bread, Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Global, Homestyle
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

This No-Oven Stovetop Bread is soft, fluffy, and golden, made entirely on the stovetop—no oven needed! Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or pairing with soups, this easy skillet bread uses simple pantry staples and comes together with minimal effort. Ideal for small kitchens, hot days, or quick homemade bread anytime.


Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or half all-purpose, half whole wheat)
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast (or 1¼ tsp active dry yeast)
  • ¾ cup warm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (for activating yeast if using active dry)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (plus more for cooking)

Instructions

  1. Activate yeast (if using active dry): Mix with warm water and sugar, let sit 5–10 mins until bubbly. Skip this step if using instant yeast.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and oil. Gradually add water (with yeast) to form a soft dough.
  3. Knead dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. Divide dough into 6 small pieces or 2–3 larger ones. Shape into rounds or discs.
  6. Heat a non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-low heat. Lightly oil the pan.
  7. Cook each bread round for 4–5 minutes per side, flipping once, until golden and cooked through.
  8. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Add garlic, herbs, or cheese to the dough for extra flavor.
  • For sweet bread, mix in cinnamon and honey.
  • Use dairy-free milk instead of water for a richer texture.
  • Brush warm bread with butter and herbs after cooking.
  • Freeze cooled bread for up to 2 months. Reheat in skillet, toaster, or microwave.

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