Classic Paneer Butter Masala Recipe
Classic Paneer Butter Masala Recipe is one of the most popular Indian dishes, known for its creamy texture and rich, mildly spiced tomato-based gravy. This restaurant-style recipe is easy to make at home and pairs perfectly with naan, roti, or jeera rice. Let’s get started!

Classic Paneer Butter Masala – Complete Guide
Ingredients
For the Paneer and Gravy:
- 200g paneer (cottage cheese), cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 green cardamoms
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 large tomatoes, pureed
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- Salt to taste
- ½ cup fresh cream
- ½ cup milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
For Garnishing:
- 1 tablespoon fresh cream
- 1 tablespoon chopped coriander leaves
Instructions For Paneer Butter
Step 1: Sauté the Spices
- Heat butter and oil in a pan on medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, and cardamoms. Sauté until aromatic.
Step 2: Cook the Onion and Tomato Base
- Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the tomato puree and cook until the mixture thickens and oil separates.
Step 3: Add Spices and Paneer
- Mix in red chili powder, turmeric, coriander powder, and salt. Stir well.
- Add milk (if using) and let it simmer for a few minutes.
- Gently add the paneer cubes and mix them with the gravy.
Step 4: Final Touch
- Stir in fresh cream and kasuri methi for a rich, creamy texture.
- Sprinkle garam masala and let the dish simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Garnishing and Serving
- Drizzle some fresh cream on top and garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.
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Also Read: Classic Paneer Butter Masala Recipe