7-Step Creamy Paneer Makhani Recipe | Best Homemade Butter Paneer Curry

Make this 7-step restaurant-style Paneer Makhani Recipe at home! Creamy, buttery, and mildly spiced North Indian curry with soft paneer cubes.

If there’s one curry that defines North Indian luxury, it’s Paneer Makhani — a creamy, buttery, and mildly spiced tomato-based curry that melts in your mouth. This Paneer Makhani Recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make in just 7 simple steps, bringing restaurant flavor straight to your kitchen.

Rich with butter, cream, and perfectly cooked paneer cubes, this dish pairs beautifully with naan, jeera rice, or parathas.

🧄 Ingredients for Paneer Makhani Recipe

🌿 Main Ingredients

• 200 g paneer (cut into cubes)

• 2 tbsp butter

• 1 tbsp oil

• 2 medium onions (finely chopped)

• 3 ripe tomatoes (pureed)

• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste

• 10 cashews (soaked)

• ½ cup fresh cream

• 1 tsp kasuri methi (crushed)

• Salt to taste

• ½ tsp sugar

🌶️ Spices

• 1 bay leaf

• ½ tsp cumin seeds

• 1 tsp red chili powder

• ½ tsp turmeric

• 1 tsp coriander powder

• ½ tsp garam masala

🍳 How to Make Paneer Makhani (7 Easy Steps)

Step 1: Prepare the Cashew-Tomato Base

1. Heat oil in a pan, add onions, and sauté until golden.

2. Add tomatoes, cashews, and ginger-garlic paste.

3. Cook for 6–7 minutes, then cool and blend into a smooth paste.

Step 2: Cook the Makhani Sauce

1. In the same pan, melt butter.

2. Add cumin seeds and bay leaf.

3. Pour in the tomato-cashew paste and cook until the oil separates.

Step 3: Add Spices

Mix in chili powder, turmeric, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for 2 minutes to release the aroma.

Step 4: Add Water

Add ½ cup water and simmer for 5 minutes to create a rich, thick gravy.

Step 5: Add Paneer Cubes

Gently add paneer and stir to coat evenly.

Step 6: Add Cream and Kasuri Methi

Pour in fresh cream and sprinkle kasuri methi. Stir well.

Step 7: Finish with Garam Masala

Turn off heat, sprinkle garam masala, and let it rest for 5 minutes.

🍽️ Serving Ideas for Paneer Makhani Recipe

Paneer Makhani pairs beautifully with:

• Butter naan

• Jeera rice

• Garlic roti

Pro Tip: Garnish with a drizzle of cream and fresh coriander for restaurant-style presentation.

🧊 Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Reheat on low heat, adding a little milk to refresh the gravy.

• Avoid freezing as cream-based gravies can curdle when thawed.

💚 Health Benefits of Paneer Makhani

This Paneer Makhani Recipe is rich in calcium and protein, supporting muscle strength and bone health.

🌿 Expert Cooking Tips for Paneer Makhani

1. Use ripe red tomatoes for natural sweetness.

2. Always add cream last to avoid curdling.

3. Soak paneer in warm water for extra softness.

4. Add sugar to balance the tanginess of tomatoes.

Paneer Makhani is rich in protein and calcium, making it a nourishing vegetarian meal when enjoyed in moderation.

🌿 Expert Tips for Perfect Paneer Makhani

• Always use fresh paneer for a soft texture.

• Blanch tomatoes before blending for a smoother sauce.

• Add cream at the end to prevent curdling.

• Use butter generously for authentic flavor.

🔗 UseFull Links

• Jackfruit Biryani – The Meaty Vegetarian Star of 2025
• Andhra Gongura Mutton Curry
• Easy Indian Vegetarian Okra Curry Recipe | Bhimascook
• Homemade Naan Recipe
• Restaurant-Style Dal Makhani
• NDTV Food – Paneer Recipes Collection
• Times Food – How to Make Paneer Makhani

❓ FAQs About Paneer Makhani

Q1: What is the difference between Paneer Makhani and Paneer Butter Masala?
A1: Both are similar, but Paneer Makhani uses more butter and cream for a milder flavor, while Paneer Butter Masala tends to be spicier.

Q2: Can I make Paneer Makhani without cream?
A2: Yes, you can substitute cream with cashew paste or milk for a lighter version.

Q3: How do I make vegan Paneer Makhani?
A3: Replace paneer with tofu and cream with coconut milk for a delicious vegan version.

Q4: Is Paneer Makhani good for kids?
A4: Absolutely! It’s mild, creamy, and protein-rich—ideal for children.

Q5: How to keep paneer soft in curry?
A5: Soak paneer cubes in warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the gravy.

This Paneer Makhani recipe captures the essence of North Indian comfort food — buttery, creamy, and perfectly spiced. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or craving a cozy meal, this restaurant-style dish never fails to impress. Try it with naan or rice, and bring home the taste of authentic Indian kitchens.

Author: Bhimascook Editorial Team
About the Author:
Bhimascook.com brings authentic Indian vegetarian recipes rooted in culture and tradition. Our mission is to help home cooks recreate restaurant-style dishes using fresh, local ingredients while preserving regional Indian flavors.