Paneer Butter Masala, also known as Butter Paneer or Paneer Makhani, is a classic North Indian dish that’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor. This dish features soft paneer cubes simmered in a luscious tomato-based gravy, enhanced with aromatic spices, butter, and fresh cream. It’s the perfect dish to pair with naan, roti, or jeera rice for an indulgent meal.
In this detailed guide, I'll show you how to make restaurant-style Paneer Butter Masala at home, with step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and variations to suit your taste. Let’s get started!
🧀 Ingredients for Paneer Butter Masala
For the Paneer (Cottage Cheese):
✔ 250g paneer (cut into cubes)
✔ 1 tsp salted butter (for sautéing, optional)
For the Gravy Base:
✔ 3 medium tomatoes (chopped)
✔ 1 medium onion (chopped)
✔ 5-6 cloves garlic
✔ 1-inch piece ginger
✔ 10-12 cashew nuts (for creaminess)
✔ 2 tbsp butter (or ghee)
✔ 1 tbsp oil
✔ 1-2 green chilies (optional, for spice)
For the Spice Mix:
✔ 1 tsp cumin seeds
✔ ½ tsp turmeric powder
✔ 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
✔ 1 tsp coriander powder
✔ ½ tsp garam masala
✔ ½ tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
✔ Salt to taste
For the Finishing Touches:
✔ ¼ cup fresh cream
✔ 1 tsp sugar (balances acidity from tomatoes)
✔ 1 tbsp chopped coriander leaves (for garnish)
🔥 Step-by-Step Recipe for Paneer Butter Masala
Step 1: Preparing the Tomato-Cashew Paste
🔹 Heat 1 tbsp oil and 1 tbsp butter in a pan.
🔹 Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
🔹 Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
🔹 Now, add garlic, ginger, and green chilies and sauté for another minute.
🔹 Add cashew nuts and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.
🔹 Finally, add chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft (about 7-8 minutes).
💡 Tip: Adding cashews gives the gravy a rich, creamy texture. You can also use almonds as a substitute.
🔹 Let this mixture cool slightly, then blend it into a smooth puree using a little water. Set aside.
Step 2: Cooking the Gravy
🔹 Heat 1 tbsp butter in the same pan.
🔹 Add the pureed tomato-onion-cashew mixture and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
🔹 Add turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for another 5 minutes until the oil starts to separate.
🔹 Add ½ cup water and mix well to adjust the consistency.
💡 Tip: Cooking the masala until the oil separates ensures a deep, rich flavor in the gravy.
Step 3: Adding Paneer & Finishing Touches
🔹 Add paneer cubes directly into the gravy. (Optional: You can lightly sauté them in butter for extra flavor before adding.)
🔹 Stir in fresh cream and garam masala for a rich, silky texture.
🔹 Crush kasuri methi between your palms and add it for an authentic aroma.
🔹 Mix everything well and let it simmer for 2 minutes on low heat.
💡 Tip: If you like a smoother, restaurant-style gravy, strain the tomato puree before adding it to the pan.
Step 4: Garnishing & Serving
🔹 Sprinkle chopped coriander leaves on top.
🔹 Drizzle with extra cream or butter for a luxurious finish.
🔹 Serve hot with naan, roti, or jeera rice.
💡 Tip: Letting the paneer soak in the gravy for 5-10 minutes before serving enhances the flavor!
✨ Pro Tips for the Best Paneer Butter Masala
✅ Use ripe, red tomatoes – They add natural sweetness and richness to the gravy.
✅ Fresh homemade paneer makes a big difference in texture and taste. If using store-bought, soak it in warm water for 10 minutes before cooking.
✅ Don’t skip cashews – They give the dish its signature creamy texture.
✅ Slow cooking enhances flavor – Allow the spices to blend well for a deep, rich taste.
✅ For a smoky flavor, try the dhungar method: Heat a piece of charcoal, place it in a small bowl inside the curry, add a few drops of ghee, cover, and let it infuse for 2 minutes.
🌶️ Variations of Paneer Butter Masala
🔸 Spicy Version: Add extra red chili powder or chopped green chilies.
🔸 Healthier Version: Skip the cream and use blended yogurt or almond milk for a lighter gravy.
🔸 Vegan Version: Replace paneer with tofu, use coconut cream instead of dairy cream, and substitute butter with vegan ghee.
🔸 Nut-Free Version: Skip cashews and use pumpkin seeds or simply increase the cream for thickness.
🍽️ Best Side Dishes to Serve with Paneer Butter Masala
✔ Garlic Naan or Butter Roti – The best combination for scooping up the creamy gravy.
✔ Jeera Rice – Lightly spiced cumin rice enhances the dish.
✔ Lachha Paratha – Flaky and crispy, perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
✔ Tandoori Roti – Adds a smoky, earthy taste.
✔ Kachumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber, tomato, and onion salad balances the richness.
💡 Tip: Serve with a glass of chilled mango lassi for the ultimate North Indian meal experience!
🤔 FAQs About Paneer Butter Masala
❓ Why is my gravy too tangy?
🔹 Tomatoes can be naturally sour. Add sugar, honey, or extra cream to balance the acidity.
❓ How can I make it spicier?
🔹 Increase the amount of red chili powder or green chilies while cooking.
❓ Can I freeze Paneer Butter Masala?
🔹 Yes! The gravy stores well. Freeze the base without paneer and add fresh paneer when reheating.
❓ How long does it last in the fridge?
🔹 Store in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat with a little water or cream.
🎯 Final Thoughts
Paneer Butter Masala is a creamy, rich, and delicious dish that’s easy to make at home with simple ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, special occasion, or just to satisfy a craving, this recipe guarantees restaurant-quality results!
