Paneer Butter Masala Recipe – Creamy Indian Paneer Curry

This Paneer Butter Masala recipe is a delicious way to enjoy soft paneer in a rich, tomato-based gravy. Made with butter, cream and aromatic Indian spices, this popular dish is perfect for lunch, dinner or a special homemade meal.

Although it tastes like a restaurant-style curry, you can prepare it at home with simple ingredients. Serve it with naan, roti, paratha or steamed rice for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients for Paneer Butter Masala

• 250 g paneer, cut into cubes

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 tablespoon oil

• 2 medium onions, roughly chopped

• 3 medium tomatoes, chopped

• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste

• 10–12 cashews

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1/2 teaspoon red chilli powder, or to taste

• 1 teaspoon coriander powder

• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala

• 1/2 teaspoon kasuri methi, crushed

• 2–3 tablespoons fresh cream

• Salt to taste

• Water as needed

• Fresh coriander for garnish

How to Make Paneer Butter Masala

Step 1: Prepare the gravy base

First, heat a little oil and one tablespoon of butter in a pan. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened. Then add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté briefly until its raw aroma fades.

Step 2: Cook the tomatoes and cashews

Next, add the chopped tomatoes, cashews, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder and salt. Cook until the tomatoes become soft and the mixture thickens.

Allow the mixture to cool slightly. Blend it into a smooth paste, adding a little water if necessary. Be careful when blending hot ingredients.

Step 3: Cook the masala

In the same pan, melt the remaining butter. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle briefly. Pour in the prepared gravy and cook over medium-low heat for several minutes, stirring occasionally.

If the gravy is too thick, add a little water until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Step 4: Add the paneer

Now add the paneer cubes and stir gently to coat them with the gravy. Simmer for about 3–5 minutes so the paneer warms through and absorbs the flavours. Avoid overcooking, as paneer can become firm.

Step 5: Finish with cream and spices

Lower the heat and stir in the cream, garam masala and crushed kasuri methi. Mix gently and cook for another minute. Taste the gravy and adjust the salt or chilli if needed.

Step 6: Garnish and serve

Finally, garnish with fresh coriander and a small swirl of cream if desired. Serve the curry hot with naan, roti, paratha or steamed rice.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes

• Total Time: 40–45 minutes

• Servings: 3–4

• Difficulty: Easy

• Category: Dinner

• Cuisine: Indian

These are estimated times and may vary depending on your cooking method.

Tips for the Best Paneer Butter Masala

• Use fresh paneer for a soft texture.

• Blend the onion-tomato mixture thoroughly for a smoother gravy.

• Adjust the chilli powder to suit your taste.

• Add cream over low heat to help prevent splitting.

• If using firm paneer, soak the cubes briefly in warm water and drain before adding them to the curry.

What to Serve with Paneer Butter Masala

This creamy curry pairs well with naan, chapati, paratha, jeera rice or plain steamed rice.

For another homemade Indian dish, try our Aloo Gobi Recipe for a vegetable-based option. Check that the linked recipe URL matches your published Aloo Gobi post before using the link.

Conclusion

This easy Paneer Butter Masala recipe combines soft paneer with a creamy tomato gravy and familiar Indian spices. With a few simple steps, you can prepare a comforting curry for everyday meals or special occasions. Serve it fresh with your favourite Indian bread or rice and adjust the seasoning to your preference.