Paneer Tikka Masala Recipe

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4.8 (153)

Paneer tikka masala features cubes of paneer cheese in spicy creamy curry sauce that's easy to make for authentic vegetarian tikka masala experiences. This vegetarian version provides all the rich, satisfying flavors of traditional tikka masala while accommodating plant-based dietary preferences. The paneer cubes absorb the spicy creamy sauce beautifully while providing substantial protein and satisfying texture. This easy preparation makes restaurant-quality tikka masala accessible to home cooks who want genuine Indian flavors without complicated techniques. The spicy creamy combination creates the perfect balance of heat and richness that makes tikka masala one of the world's most beloved curry preparations.

A pot containing paneer tikka masala prepared in rich sauce and served with rice in the background

This paneer tikka masala made with cubes of paneer cheese in a spicy creamy curry sauce is easy to make. This vegetarian dish goes well with naan or basmati rice.

Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
40 mins
Total Time:
1 hr
Servings:
6
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Ingredients

1/2x
1x
2x

Original recipe (1X) yields 6 servings

  • ¼ cup butter

  • 1 pound paneer, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

  • 2 medium onions, finely chopped

  • 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped

  • 2 medium jalapeño peppers, chopped

  • 1 tablespoon ground cashews

  • 1 teaspoon garlic paste

  • 1 teaspoon ginger paste

  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander

  • 1 teaspoon garam masala

  • 1 (16 ounce) can tomato sauce

  • 1 pint half-and-half

  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste

Directions

  1. Gather all ingredients.

    Key ingredients for paneer tikka masala in bowls and on a plate, including spices, diced paneer, vegetables, and milk

    Allrecipes/Candice Walker

  2. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add paneer cubes; cook and stir until golden, about 5 minutes.

    Paneer cubes cooking in a pan on an induction stove with a wooden spoon

    Allrecipes/Candice Walker

  3. Add onions, bell pepper, jalapeños, ground cashews, garlic paste, ginger paste, cayenne pepper, cumin, coriander, and garam masala; cook and stir until well combined and fragrant, about 1 minute.

    Cooking paneer tikka masala in a pot on an electric stove, paneer cubes and vegetables being stirred with a wooden spatula

    Allrecipes/Candice Walker

  4. Mix tomato sauce, half-and-half, and salt into paneer mixture; simmer until thickened, about 30 minutes.

    Cooking pot filled with paneer tikka masala and a wooden spoon

    Allrecipes/Candice Walker

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

323 Calories
23g Fat
17g Carbs
14g Protein
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Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 6
Calories 323
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 23g29%
Saturated Fat 14g70%
Cholesterol 66mg22%
Sodium 1225mg53%
Total Carbohydrate 17g6%
Dietary Fiber 3g10%
Total Sugars 6g
Protein 14g29%
Vitamin C 28mg31%
Calcium 176mg14%
Iron 2mg9%
Potassium 576mg12%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

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John Davis
John Davis

Hi, I’m John Davis!
Food has always been my favorite way to connect with people, and that’s why I started blogging about it. I love sharing quick, creative recipes that prove cooking at home can be just as exciting as eating out. Whether it’s a speedy weeknight dinner or a fun snack, I enjoy keeping things simple, flavorful, and approachable for everyone. When I’m not experimenting in the kitchen, I’m usually exploring new cuisines or hunting for fresh inspiration at local markets.

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