Bring Restaurant-Style Indian Flavor to Your Kitchen
Paneer Butter Masala is one of India's most beloved vegetarian dishes. Soft cubes of paneer cheese are gently simmered in a luxurious tomato and butter sauce enriched with cream and fragrant spices like garam masala, cumin, coriander, and kasuri methi. The result is a velvety curry that's comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to prepare at home.
Serve it with warm naan or fragrant basmati rice for an unforgettable meal that rivals your favorite Indian restaurant.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
✔ Rich and creamy tomato butter sauce
✔ Authentic Indian restaurant flavors
✔ Perfect vegetarian comfort food
✔ Ready in about 40 minutes
✔ Great for weeknight dinners
✔ Family-friendly
✔ Naturally gluten-free
✔ Perfect for meal prep
About This Recipe
Paneer Butter Masala, also known as Butter Paneer, originated in North India and has become a favorite worldwide. Unlike spicier curries, this dish is known for its smooth, mildly sweet tomato-based sauce balanced with warm spices and rich dairy.
Paneer is a fresh Indian cheese that doesn't melt when cooked, making it ideal for curries. It absorbs the flavors of the sauce while keeping its soft, satisfying texture.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Main Course
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
Curry
- 14 ounces (400 g) paneer, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 14 ounces (400 g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt, to taste
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried kasuri methi (fenugreek leaves), crushed
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
To Serve
- Basmati rice
- Garlic naan
- Lime wedges
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Blender (optional for extra-smooth sauce)
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
Heat the butter and oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 2
Add the onion and cook for 5–6 minutes until soft and lightly golden.
Step 3
Stir in the garlic and ginger. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4
Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, garam masala, sugar, and salt.
Step 5
Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
Step 6 (Optional)
Blend the sauce until silky smooth, then return it to the pan.
Step 7
Stir in the heavy cream and crushed kasuri methi.
Step 8
Add the paneer cubes and gently simmer for 5 minutes until heated through.
Step 9
Garnish with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of cream.
Serve hot with basmati rice and warm garlic naan.
Chef's Tips
- Soak store-bought paneer in warm water for 10 minutes to make it softer.
- Kasuri methi gives the curry its signature restaurant flavor.
- Don't overcook the paneer, or it may become chewy.
- Blend the sauce for an ultra-creamy texture.
Variations
Vegan Version
Replace the paneer with firm tofu and use coconut cream instead of dairy cream.
Spicier Curry
Add ½ teaspoon Kashmiri chili powder or cayenne pepper.
Extra Rich
Add one tablespoon of butter just before serving.
Protein Boost
Add chickpeas for additional protein and texture.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently over low heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is paneer?
Paneer is a fresh Indian cheese that holds its shape when cooked, making it perfect for curries and grilled dishes.
Can I use tofu instead?
Yes! Firm tofu makes an excellent vegan substitute.
Is Paneer Butter Masala spicy?
Traditionally it's mild and creamy, but you can easily increase the heat by adding more chili.
What should I serve with it?
Basmati rice, garlic naan, roti, or jeera rice are all excellent choices.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 465
- Protein: 19 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fat: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 540 mg
Serving Suggestions
Pair this curry with:
- Garlic Naan
- Basmati Rice
- Jeera Rice
- Cucumber Raita
- Mango Lassi
- Vegetable Samosas
Final Thoughts
Paneer Butter Masala is the perfect introduction to Indian home cooking. Rich, creamy, and packed with warm spices, it's a comforting dish that's both elegant enough for entertaining and simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Once you try it, it's sure to become a regular favorite.
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