Paneer Butter Masala

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Shreya Das (@foodwatii)

A rich and creamy Indian dish made with paneer cooked in a buttery tomato gravy, perfect for serving with naan or rice.

Paneer Butter Masala recipe
Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
30min
Total Time
45min

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 cup)

Main Ingredients

  • paneer
    paneer
    250g
  • butter
    butter
    2tbsp
  • onion, finely chopped
    onion, finely chopped
    1cup
  • tomatoes, pureed
    tomatoes, pureed
    2cup
  • cream
    cream
    1cup
  • ginger-garlic paste
    ginger-garlic paste
    1tbsp
  • garam masala
    garam masala
    1tsp
  • red chili powder
    red chili powder
    1tsp
  • coriander powder
    coriander powder
    1tsp
  • salt
    salt
    1tsp
  • kasuri methi
    kasuri methi
    1tbsp
  • fresh coriander, chopped
    fresh coriander, chopped
    1tbsp

How to make Paneer Butter Masala

Cooking Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Heat butter in a pan over medium heat.

  2. Step 2

    Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

  3. Step 3

    Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute.

  4. Step 4

    Add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil separates.

  5. Step 5

    Mix in red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt.

  6. Step 6

    Add the paneer cubes and gently mix.

  7. Step 7

    Pour in the cream and stir well.

  8. Step 8

    Sprinkle garam masala and kasuri methi, then mix.

  9. Step 9

    Cook for a few more minutes until heated through.

  10. Step 10

    Garnish with fresh coriander before serving.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

383.5kcal (19.18%)

Protein

16.5g (33%)

Carbs

16.5g (6%)

Sugars

5.0g (10%)

Healthy Fat

8.3g

Unhealthy Fat

17.3g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. For a richer flavor, use homemade paneer.

  2. Adjust the spice levels according to your taste.

  3. Serve with naan, roti, or steamed rice for a complete meal.

FAQS

  1. What is the best way to store leftover Paneer Butter Masala?

    To store leftover Paneer Butter Masala, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or cream to maintain its creamy texture.

  2. Can I make Paneer Butter Masala vegan, and what substitutions should I use?

    Yes, you can easily make Paneer Butter Masala vegan by substituting paneer with tofu or a plant-based paneer alternative. Replace the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, and use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of dairy cream. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan version of this classic dish!

  3. What are some good side dishes to serve with Paneer Butter Masala?

    Paneer Butter Masala pairs wonderfully with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice. You can also serve it with jeera rice or a side of vegetable biryani for a more filling meal. Don't forget to add a side of cucumber raita or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.

  4. How can I adjust the spice level in Paneer Butter Masala?

    To adjust the spice level in Paneer Butter Masala, you can reduce the amount of red chili powder used in the recipe. Alternatively, if you prefer more heat, consider adding chopped green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Always taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level!

  5. What is the cooking process for making Paneer Butter Masala?

    To make Paneer Butter Masala, start by heating butter in a pan and sautéing finely chopped onions until golden brown. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook briefly before incorporating pureed tomatoes. Once the oil separates, mix in spices like red chili powder and coriander powder. Gently add paneer cubes, pour in cream, and finish with garam masala and kasuri methi. Cook until heated through and garnish with fresh coriander before serving.

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Shreya Das

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