Name: Paneer Tikka Masala
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 200g paneer, cubed; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp garam masala; 1/2 tsp cumin powder; 1/4 tsp turmeric powder; 1/2 tsp chili powder; 1 tbsp ginger garlic paste; 2 tbsp butter; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 1 cup tomato puree; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt to taste; 2 tbsp chopped fresh coriander

Paneer Tikka Masala is a flavorful and soul-satisfying Indian dish that brings together charred, smoky chunks of marinated paneer with a rich, creamy tomato-based curry. It’s the perfect vegetarian comfort food that’s just as indulgent as its meaty counterparts. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a warming meal, this recipe checks all the boxes.

What makes Paneer Tikka Masala a favorite among Indian food lovers is its irresistible mix of textures and flavors. The grilled paneer offers a delightful chew and smokiness, while the velvety masala sauce is fragrant with aromatic spices. When served with naan or basmati rice, it becomes a complete feast you’ll want to come back to often.

Why You’ll Love This Paneer Tikka Masala

This dish is a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re cooking for vegetarians or not. It brings restaurant-style quality right to your kitchen, thanks to its layered spices and creamy base. The paneer is marinated in yogurt and spices, giving it a depth of flavor, and then roasted or grilled for that authentic charred touch. Meanwhile, the sauce is luxurious but not heavy, rich with tomato and warming spices like garam masala, cumin, and coriander. Plus, it’s perfect for make-ahead meals and reheats like a dream.

What Kind of Paneer Should I Use?

Go for a firm paneer that can hold its shape when skewered and grilled. Homemade or store-bought paneer both work well. If you’re using store-bought, just make sure it doesn’t have added preservatives or too much salt. Look for blocks that are dense and smooth. Fresh paneer is ideal for this recipe since it absorbs the marinade flavors beautifully without turning crumbly or soft during cooking.

Ingredients for the Paneer Tikka Masala

Paneer Tikka Masala comes together with pantry staples and a few Indian spices. Each ingredient brings something important to the dish.

Paneer gives this recipe its main character. A firm, non-melting cheese that grills beautifully and soaks up all the spiced yogurt marinade.

Greek Yogurt is used for marinating the paneer. It tenderizes and flavors it deeply.

Lemon Juice adds a bright note and helps the marinade break down the paneer slightly for better absorption.

Garam Masala is the heart of this dish’s spice mix, adding deep, toasty warmth.

Cumin Powder enhances earthiness in both marinade and sauce.

Turmeric Powder gives that golden hue and adds subtle bitterness that balances the richness.

Chili Powder adds gentle heat and a vibrant red color.

Fresh Ginger & Garlic are pounded into a paste to add zesty depth.

Onions create the foundation of the masala, adding natural sweetness when sautéed.

Tomato Puree builds a tangy and rich sauce base.

Heavy Cream mellows the spices and brings luscious creaminess.

Butter adds a silky finish and helps meld all the flavors together.

Fresh Coriander (Cilantro) for garnishing with a burst of fresh aroma.

How To Make the Paneer Tikka Masala

Step 1: Marinate the Paneer

Cut paneer into bite-sized cubes and place them in a bowl. In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, chili powder, and ginger-garlic paste. Coat the paneer cubes in this marinade and let it rest for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Grill or Roast the Paneer

Skewer the marinated paneer and either grill it until charred and golden, or bake in the oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes. For extra smokiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.

Step 3: Prepare the Masala Sauce

In a large pan, melt butter and add finely chopped onions. Cook them down until golden and caramelized. Stir in more ginger-garlic paste and cook until fragrant. Add tomato puree and let it simmer with spices until thickened. Pour in heavy cream and mix until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Paneer and Sauce

Add the grilled paneer into the simmering masala sauce. Let it cook together for 5-7 minutes so the flavors combine well. Adjust salt and finish with fresh coriander.

How to Serve and Store This Indian Classic

Paneer Tikka Masala is best served warm, ideally with fluffy basmati rice, naan, or roti. It feeds about 4 people generously, making it a solid option for weeknight dinners or small gatherings. If you’re prepping in advance, let the dish cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to a month. Just reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or cream to bring it back to life.

What to Serve With Paneer Tikka Masala?

Basmati Rice

The fragrant aroma and fluffy grains of basmati rice soak up the masala sauce perfectly.

Garlic Naan

Soft, garlicky naan is perfect for scooping up every bit of creamy sauce.

Cucumber Raita

A cooling yogurt side that cuts through the richness and adds a refreshing contrast.

Mango Chutney

Sweet and spicy mango chutney pairs wonderfully with the bold spices in the dish.

Roasted Vegetables

Add a serving of spiced roasted cauliflower or bell peppers to round out the meal.

Indian Pickles

A small spoon of tangy pickles enhances every bite with a punch of flavor.

Lentil Dal

For a more filling Indian dinner spread, a bowl of comforting dal is the way to go.

Want More Vegetarian Dinner Ideas?

If this Paneer Tikka Masala wins your heart, here are more must-try favorites from our kitchen:

Creamy Broccoli Pasta is a luscious, veggie-packed option for weeknights.
Zucchini Carrot Oatmeal Muffins offer a wholesome, grab-and-go breakfast or side.
Cheesy Brussels Sprout Bake brings comforting layers to your veggie mains.
Mushroom Mozzarella Bake is a crowd-pleaser straight from the oven.
Savory Chicken Wraps with Garlic Cream Sauce if you’re looking for something hearty yet fresh.

Save This Recipe For Later

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you grill the paneer on a pan or fire it up on a skewer? Did you sneak in extra chili or keep it mild?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too let’s help each other cook smarter.

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