Name: Easy Paneer Butter Masala Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 200 g (7 oz) paneer cheese, cut into 1/2 inch cubes; 1/2 teaspoon garam masala; 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1 large onion, peeled and quartered; 4 garlic cloves; 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled; 1 tablespoon sunflower oil; 30 g (2 tablespoons) unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 150 ml (3/4 cup) vegetable stock; 1 tablespoon tomato puree; 200 ml (1 cup) passata (tomato sauce); 150 ml (3/4 cup) double (heavy) cream; Handful of chopped fresh coriander

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 14 reviews

Discover the comforting magic of the Easy Paneer Butter Masala Recipe, a vibrant and creamy Indian classic that transforms simple paneer cheese into a luscious, aromatic feast. This dish combines a rich tomato and cream sauce with a perfect blend of spices, resulting in a meal that’s both indulgent and surprisingly straightforward to make. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or looking to impress friends with a delightful vegetarian option, this recipe is your go-to for a flavorful, satisfying experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two steps of cooking tofu cubes in a deep black pan with handles on both sides. In the top half, small tofu cubes coated with reddish spices sit in the center on a bed of finely chopped pale yellow onions sautéing in oil, spread unevenly across the bottom, with some onions stuck to the sides. In the bottom half, the tofu cubes have browned lightly and are mixed with several different brown and reddish powdered spices clustered in the middle, while the sautéed onions appear more cooked and sticky around the tofu, all on the same black pan surface. The pan rests on a dark surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Easy Paneer Butter Masala Recipe lies in its carefully chosen yet simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and a stunning color palette that’s as inviting as it is delicious.

Paneer cheese (200 g / 7 oz): The mild, soft cheese is the star, absorbing spices and creamy sauce beautifully.
Garam masala (1/2 teaspoon): This aromatic blend adds warmth and complexity to the flavor profile.
Ground coriander (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a citrusy nuttiness that balances the spice.
Paprika (1 teaspoon total): Adds a subtle smoky sweetness and vibrant red hue.
Large onion, peeled and quartered (1): Forms the savory base when blended into a smooth paste.
Garlic cloves (4): Bring pungent depth and character to the sauce.
Fresh ginger (1-inch piece): Offers a fresh, zesty kick crucial for authentic flavor.
Sunflower oil (1 tablespoon): A neutral oil perfect for sautéing without overpowering other tastes.
Unsalted butter (30 g / 2 tablespoons): Creates that indulgent, creamy mouthfeel essential to the dish.
Curry powder (1 tablespoon): Enhances the warmth and complexity with a blend of spices.
Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a surprising and subtle sweet warmth.
Vegetable stock (150 ml / 3/4 cup): Balances the acidity with a savory foundation.
Tomato puree (1 tablespoon): Concentrates the tomato flavor, enriching the sauce texture.
Passata (200 ml / 1 cup): Smooth tomato sauce creating the lush base for the curry.
Double (heavy) cream (150 ml / 3/4 cup): The key to the velvety richness that makes this dish unforgettable.
Fresh coriander (handful, chopped): Adds a bright, fresh finish to balance the creamy sauce.

How to Make Easy Paneer Butter Masala Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Paneer

Begin by cutting your paneer cheese into neat 1/2 inch cubes. Toss these golden chunks gently with garam masala, ground coriander, and paprika. This coating infuses the paneer with a lovely base of flavors even before cooking, letting every bite burst with spice and aroma.

Step 2: Create the Onion-Garlic-Ginger Paste

Drop your quartered onion, garlic cloves, and fresh ginger into a food processor and blend until silky smooth. This paste is foundational, ensuring your sauce has a deeply savory and fragrant body.

Step 3: Cook the Base

Heat the sunflower oil in a large, deep pan and melt the butter until bubbling gently. Pour in the onion mixture and sauté it over medium heat for about 4 to 5 minutes. The goal here is to get a slight brown tinge to bring out sweetness and richness that will carry through the dish.

Step 4: Sauté the Paneer

Now, introduce the spiced paneer cubes to the pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. This step lets the paneer absorb some buttery flavor and begin melding with the aromatic base, resulting in a satisfyingly chewy texture.

Step 5: Spice It Up

Sprinkle in the curry powder, additional paprika, and ground cinnamon. Stir continuously for about a minute until the fragrance fills your kitchen—this signals the spices are ready to release their magic in the sauce.

Step 6: Build the Sauce

Pour in the vegetable stock, tomato puree, and passata. Stir everything together well and bring the pan to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes. This simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the sauce to thicken.

Step 7: Finish with Cream

Slowly stir in the double cream and let the sauce simmer just long enough for it to heat through and turn luxuriously creamy—about a minute. This final addition creates that unmistakably rich and silky texture quintessential to this dish.

Step 8: Add Fresh Coriander and Season

Stir in the chopped fresh coriander for a vibrant herbal kick, then taste and season as you prefer. Serve your Easy Paneer Butter Masala piping hot, ideally over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up all that luscious sauce.

How to Serve Easy Paneer Butter Masala Recipe

A white plate shows two main layers next to each other: one half has fluffy white rice topped with bright green cilantro leaves, and the other half has creamy orange curry with pieces of chicken sprinkled with small green herbs. Two pieces of flatbread rest behind the plate. A silver spoon lies next to the plate on a white marbled surface, with a dark blue cloth partially under the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Top your Easy Paneer Butter Masala with a handful of freshly chopped coriander leaves to brighten the flavors visually and aromatically. For an added touch, a swirl of cream or a few toasted fenugreek leaves on top can elevate its presentation and taste even more.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed basmati rice or soft, warm naan bread, perfect for scooping up every last bit of the sauce. For a refreshing contrast, serve alongside a crisp cucumber raita or a fresh tomato and onion salad.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive occasion, try serving your Easy Paneer Butter Masala in individual small copper bowls or on banana leaves for that authentic Indian touch. Layer with saffron-infused rice or sprinkle with crushed roasted cashews to add an unexpected but delightful crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish keeps well for up to 3 days, making it a convenient and delicious option for busy days when you want homemade comfort without extra effort.

Freezing

You can freeze Easy Paneer Butter Masala for up to a month. Be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Gently reheat the curry on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from breaking. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or cream to bring it back to the perfect consistency. This will keep your Easy Paneer Butter Masala tasting fresh and inviting like the first time.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought paneer for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought paneer works wonderfully for this Easy Paneer Butter Masala Recipe. Just make sure to drain any excess water and pat it dry before cubing to help the paneer absorb the spices better.

Is there a substitute for double cream?

If you want a lighter version, you can use full-fat yogurt or coconut cream as an alternative, though the taste and texture will be slightly different. Choose according to your preference for richness and dietary needs.

How spicy is this Easy Paneer Butter Masala Recipe?

This recipe maintains a mild to moderate level of spice, focusing more on aromatic warmth than heat. You can easily adjust the amount of paprika or add chili powder if you prefer a spicier kick.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Swap paneer with firm tofu and use vegan butter and coconut cream instead of dairy. The spices and cooking method remain the same, preserving the dish’s delicious character.

What is the best rice to serve with paneer butter masala?

Long-grain basmati rice is ideal due to its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture, which complements the creamy, rich sauce perfectly. It soaks up the curry beautifully without becoming mushy.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Easy Paneer Butter Masala Recipe that turns an ordinary meal into a celebration of flavors and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, I encourage you to dive into this recipe and savor each creamy, spiced bite. It’s easy to make, wonderfully satisfying, and bound to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.