Paneer Butter Masala Recipe is one of the most popular and loved Indian dishes, especially in North India.
This rich, creamy, and mildly sweet curry is a favorite choice in restaurants as well as home kitchens.
The combination of soft paneer cubes cooked in a buttery tomato-based gravy makes this dish truly irresistible.
In this post, you will learn how to make restaurant style Paneer Butter Masala at home using simple ingredients
and easy steps. Even beginners can follow this recipe and achieve a perfect balance of taste and texture.
Recipe Quick Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 3–4 people
- Cuisine: North Indian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients Required for Paneer Butter Masala
For Gravy
- Tomatoes – 4 medium (roughly chopped)
- Cashew nuts – 12 to 15
- Butter – 2 tablespoons
- Oil – 1 tablespoon
- Ginger-garlic paste – 1 teaspoon
- Green chili – 1 (optional)
For Curry
- Paneer – 200 grams (cubed)
- Fresh cream – 2 tablespoons
- Red chili powder – 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric powder – ¼ teaspoon
- Coriander powder – 1 teaspoon
- Garam masala – ½ teaspoon
- Salt – as per taste
- Sugar – ½ teaspoon (optional)
- Water – as required
How to Make Paneer Butter Masala – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Gravy Base
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a pan and add chopped tomatoes, cashew nuts, green chili,
and ginger-garlic paste. Cook on medium flame until tomatoes become soft.
Allow the mixture to cool and blend into a smooth paste.
Step 2: Cook the Gravy
Heat butter in the same pan. Add the prepared tomato-cashew paste and cook for
5–6 minutes until the butter starts separating from the gravy.
Step 3: Add Spices
Add red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, salt, and sugar.
Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes on low flame.
Step 4: Add Paneer
Add paneer cubes and required water to adjust consistency.
Simmer the curry for 5 minutes so that paneer absorbs the flavors.
Step 5: Finish with Cream
Add fresh cream and garam masala. Mix gently and switch off the flame.
Your Paneer Butter Masala Recipe is ready to serve.
Cooking Tips & Variations
- Soak paneer cubes in warm water for 10 minutes to keep them soft.
- You can add honey instead of sugar for mild sweetness.
- For smoky flavor, use the dhungar method with charcoal.
- Adjust cream quantity according to your taste preference.
Serving Suggestions
Paneer Butter Masala tastes best when served hot with:
- Butter Naan
- Tandoori Roti
- Jeera Rice
- Plain Basmati Rice
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Paneer Butter Masala without cream?
Yes, you can skip cream or replace it with milk, but cream gives the authentic restaurant taste.
Is Paneer Butter Masala spicy?
No, this dish is mildly spicy and slightly sweet. You can adjust spice levels as per taste.
Can I use store-bought paneer?
Yes, store-bought paneer works well. Just soak it in warm water before use.
How long can Paneer Butter Masala be stored?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Conclusion
This Paneer Butter Masala Recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions,
or whenever you crave restaurant-style food at home.
With simple ingredients and easy steps, anyone can prepare this delicious dish.
Try this recipe and enjoy a creamy, rich, and flavorful curry at home.