15 Delicious Paneer Recipes You Need to Try

Paneer is a versatile ingredient that shines in numerous dishes, making it a favorite in many kitchens. From rich curries to quick stir-fries, there’s a paneer recipe for every occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, these recipes will inspire you to whip up delicious meals that highlight this beloved cheese.

Kadai Paneer

Kadai Paneer is a delightful Indian dish that showcases the rich flavors of paneer, a fresh cheese, combined with colorful bell peppers and aromatic spices. It’s not just delicious; it’s also a visual treat with its vibrant colors and textures. This dish is simple to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

The combination of sautéed spices, crunchy vegetables, and soft paneer creates a comforting dish that pairs wonderfully with naan or rice. The robust spices and fresh ingredients deliver a satisfying taste that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

• 250g paneer, cut into cubes
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 2-3 green chilies, slit
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a kadai or wok over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
2. Add sliced onions and sauté until they turn translucent. Mix in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute.
3. Add the bell peppers and green chilies. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still crunchy.
4. Sprinkle in garam masala, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well to combine.
5. Gently fold in the paneer cubes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are coated with spices.
6. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with naan or rice.

Paneer Tikka with Mint Chutney

Paneer Tikka is a delightful Indian appetizer known for its smoky flavor and vibrant spices. Made from marinated cubes of paneer, it’s grilled or baked until perfectly charred, offering a delicious combination of textures. The addition of mint chutney brings a refreshing twist, balancing the rich taste of the paneer.

This dish is simple to prepare and can be customized with various spices and vegetables. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy meal at home. Your guests will love the flavor-packed skewers alongside the cooled mint chutney!

Ingredients

• 400g paneer, cut into cubes
• 1 cup yogurt
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon oil
• Cilantro and mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Paneer: In a bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, lemon juice, oil, and salt. Add the paneer cubes and mix well. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare Skewers: Preheat the grill or oven. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes. Thread the marinated paneer onto the skewers.
3. Grill the Paneer: Place the skewers on the grill or in the oven. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and slightly charred.
4. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the grill and garnish with chopped cilantro and mint leaves. Serve hot with mint chutney on the side.

Palak Paneer

Palak Paneer is a delightful Indian dish that combines fresh spinach with cubes of soft paneer in a creamy sauce. This dish is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for any meal. The combination of spices brings out the natural sweetness of the spinach, while the paneer adds a rich, creamy texture.

It’s quite simple to make, perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or just looking for a comforting meal, Palak Paneer is sure to impress. Serve it with warm naan or rice for a satisfying dining experience!

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 200 grams paneer, cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1-2 green chilies (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/4 cup cream (optional for richness)
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee

Instructions

1. Blanch the spinach: Boil water in a pot and add the spinach leaves. Cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted, then transfer to an ice bath to retain the color. Drain and blend into a smooth paste.
2. Cook the base: Heat oil or ghee in a pan, add cumin seeds, and let them splutter. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden. Then, add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Cook for another minute.
3. Add tomatoes: Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften. Then, add the spinach paste and salt. Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Incorporate paneer: Add the cubed paneer and garam masala to the spinach mixture. Gently mix and let it cook for another 5 minutes. If desired, stir in cream for extra richness.
5. Serve: Garnish with a drizzle of cream if using, and enjoy hot with naan or rice.

Paneer Stuffed Paratha

Paneer Stuffed Paratha is a delightful Indian flatbread filled with crumbled paneer and spices, offering a burst of flavor in every bite. It’s a perfect balance of crispy texture on the outside and a soft, savory filling on the inside. This dish is not only tasty but also quite simple to prepare, making it ideal for breakfast, lunch, or even a quick snack!

With the right spices, you can customize the filling to your taste, making this dish a favorite among many. Pair it with yogurt or a tangy chutney for an extra kick. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, you’ll find this recipe easy and rewarding.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup paneer, crumbled
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt, to taste
• Water, as needed
• Oil or ghee, for cooking

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix whole wheat flour and salt. Gradually add water and knead until you have a soft dough. Cover and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
2. Make the Filling: In a pan, heat a little oil and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and green chilies. Sauté until the onions are translucent. Add crumbled paneer, garam masala, and salt. Mix well and cook for a few minutes. Let it cool.
3. Roll the Parathas: Divide the dough into equal portions. Roll each portion into a small circle. Place a spoonful of the paneer mixture in the center, fold the edges over to encase the filling, and gently roll it out into a paratha.
4. Cook the Parathas: Heat a tawa or griddle over medium heat. Cook each paratha, adding a little oil or ghee until golden brown on both sides. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
5. Serve: Enjoy your Paneer Stuffed Parathas hot with yogurt or your favorite chutney.

Paneer Butter Masala

Paneer Butter Masala is a creamy, rich dish that’s a favorite in Indian cuisine. The combination of soft paneer cubes in a buttery tomato sauce makes for a delightful meal. With a hint of spices, it offers a perfect balance of flavors that can please any palate. Plus, it’s simple to whip up at home, making it great for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

The dish is not just tasty but also pairs wonderfully with naan or rice, making it a versatile addition to your meal plan. If you’re ready to dive into the world of Indian flavors, this recipe will guide you through making your own Paneer Butter Masala from scratch!

Ingredients

• 250 grams paneer, cubed
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 cup cream
• Salt to taste
• Cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat butter and oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
2. Mix in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute until fragrant.
3. Add the pureed tomatoes, stirring well. Cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
4. Sprinkle in the turmeric, red chili powder, and garam masala. Stir to combine.
5. Gently fold in the paneer cubes and let them soak in the sauce for 5 minutes.
6. Pour in the cream and mix well. Simmer for another 5 minutes, adjusting salt as needed.
7. Garnish with cilantro before serving, and enjoy with naan or rice!

Chili Paneer

Chili Paneer is a delightful dish that packs a punch with its bold flavors and a hint of spice. This Indo-Chinese favorite features soft, chewy cubes of paneer tossed in a tangy chili sauce, making it an excellent choice for a quick snack or as a side dish. It’s not only delicious but also easy to whip up, perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners.

The combination of fresh vegetables and a spicy sauce elevates the paneer, resulting in a dish that is sure to impress. Whether served over a bed of rice or enjoyed on its own, Chili Paneer adds a kick to any meal!

Ingredients

• 250 grams paneer, cubed
• 2 tablespoons cornflour
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2-3 green chilies, chopped
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
• 1 teaspoon vinegar
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Paneer: In a bowl, coat the paneer cubes with cornflour and a pinch of salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes.
2. Fry the Paneer: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the paneer cubes and fry until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for a few minutes until they are slightly tender.
4. Add the Sauces: Stir in the green chilies, soy sauce, chili sauce, tomato ketchup, vinegar, and salt. Mix well.
5. Combine: Add the fried paneer to the pan and toss everything together until the paneer is well-coated with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh coriander and enjoy your Chili Paneer hot!

Paneer Makhani

Paneer Makhani is a creamy and rich dish that features soft cubes of paneer simmered in a luscious tomato-based gravy. The flavors are a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory, making it a favorite among paneer lovers. This dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a great choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

With its smooth texture and aromatic spices, Paneer Makhani pairs wonderfully with naan or rice. It can be made quickly, and the ingredients are usually pantry staples, so you can whip it up anytime the craving strikes!

Ingredients

• 250 grams paneer, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat butter in a pan over medium flame. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
2. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
3. Stir in the tomato puree, garam masala, red chili powder, turmeric, and salt. Cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
4. Add the paneer cubes and gently mix to coat them in the gravy. Cook for 5 minutes.
5. Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
6. Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot with naan or rice.

Paneer Bhurji

Paneer Bhurji is a delicious and comforting dish made from crumbled paneer, flavored with a mix of spices and fresh ingredients. It’s a great vegetarian option that packs a punch with its savory taste and satisfying texture. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual brunch with friends.

This dish combines soft paneer with tomatoes, onions, and spices, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Serve it with warm chapatis or parathas for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 200 grams paneer, crumbled
• 1 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1-2 green chilies, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons oil
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they are translucent.
2. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes are soft.
4. Add the crumbled paneer and garam masala. Mix well and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving. Enjoy your Paneer Bhurji with warm chapatis or parathas!

Paneer Salad with Pomegranate

This Paneer Salad with Pomegranate is a refreshing dish perfect for any meal. The creamy paneer adds a rich texture, while the pomegranate seeds bring a burst of sweetness and color, making every bite delightful. Plus, it’s quick and easy to whip up, perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at dinner.

The combination of fresh greens and the tangy dressing enhances the overall flavor, creating a salad that is not just nutritious but also visually appealing. It’s a great way to enjoy the goodness of paneer and fruits together!

Ingredients

• 200g paneer, cubed
• 2 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, etc.)
• 1 cup pomegranate seeds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the salad greens and paneer cubes.
2. Add the pomegranate seeds and gently toss to mix.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss lightly to coat.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Paneer Fried Rice

Paneer Fried Rice is an exciting twist on the classic fried rice dish, blending the comforting flavors of stir-fried rice with the creamy texture of paneer. This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also packs a punch of flavor with every bite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, it’s a delightful way to enjoy a vegetarian meal.

With vibrant vegetables and aromatic spices, this fried rice is both satisfying and nutritious. The paneer adds a unique richness, making it a hit among both kids and adults. Plus, it’s a simple one-pot meal that can be whipped up in no time, making it ideal for busy days. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 1 cup paneer, cubed
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
2. Add the ginger and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
3. Stir in the diced bell pepper and carrot, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
4. Add the cubed paneer and cook until golden brown on all sides.
5. Mix in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps. Pour in the soy sauce and stir well to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add chopped green onions and toss everything together for another minute.
7. Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions if desired.

Paneer Jalfrezi

Paneer Jalfrezi is a vibrant and satisfying dish that combines soft paneer with crisp vegetables, all tossed in a light yet flavorful sauce. It’s a great option for those who love a mix of textures and tastes, as the sautéed veggies add a refreshing crunch to the creamy paneer. This dish is quite easy to whip up and is perfect for weeknight dinners or to impress guests on special occasions.

The combination of spices and fresh herbs in Paneer Jalfrezi gives it a lively kick without being overpowering. It’s a wonderful vegetarian alternative that pairs well with naan or steamed rice, making it a staple in many Indian households. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy hearty vegetables and protein-packed paneer in one colorful dish.

Ingredients

• 250 grams paneer, cubed
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (red and green)
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons oil
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
2. Once the cumin is aromatic, add sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
3. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking for about a minute.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften.
5. Incorporate the bell peppers and paneer cubes. Mix well and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
6. Finish with garam masala and give it a good stir. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Baked Paneer with Herbs

Baked paneer with herbs is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor with every bite. The paneer cubes are seasoned and baked to a perfect golden brown, creating a chewy texture on the outside while remaining soft on the inside. This recipe is not only easy to make but also quick, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or a casual gathering with friends.

The combination of herbs enhances the natural taste of the paneer, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Serve it as an appetizer or a side dish, and watch everyone enjoy this simple yet tasty treat!

Ingredients

• 400 grams paneer, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the paneer cubes to the bowl and toss until they are well-coated with the herb mixture.
4. Spread the coated paneer cubes evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the paneer is golden and slightly crispy.
6. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Paneer and Vegetable Skewers

Paneer and vegetable skewers are a delightful dish that’s perfect for a quick meal or a party appetizer. The combination of marinated paneer and colorful, grilled vegetables offers a burst of flavor in every bite. Not only are they tasty, but they also provide a satisfying vegetarian option that everyone can enjoy.

Making these skewers is simple and requires minimal prep time. Just marinate the paneer and veggies, assemble them on skewers, and grill to perfection. You’ll love the smoky char that enhances the flavors!

Ingredients

• 250g paneer, cut into cubes
• 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, cumin powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
2. Marinate the Paneer and Vegetables: Add paneer cubes, bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion to the marinade. Toss until everything is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated paneer and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between them for a colorful presentation.
5. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the paneer is golden and vegetables are tender.
6. Serve Warm: Remove from the grill and serve with your favorite dip or chutney!

Paneer Kofta Curry

Paneer Kofta Curry is a delightful dish that combines soft, spiced paneer dumplings with a rich and creamy tomato-based gravy. It’s a perfect choice for those who enjoy a touch of indulgence in their meals. The koftas are made from paneer, which gives them a lovely texture and flavor, while the curry is aromatic and satisfying, making it a favorite for many.

This recipe is relatively simple, even for beginners. It doesn’t require any exotic ingredients, and the cooking process is straightforward. Serve it with rice or naan for a hearty meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 200 grams paneer, grated
• 2 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 1 tablespoon cornflour
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste
• Oil for frying
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 cup cream
• Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Koftas: In a bowl, mix grated paneer, mashed potatoes, cornflour, garam masala, red chili powder, and salt. Form small balls from the mixture.
2. Fry the Koftas: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the paneer balls until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
3. Make the Curry: In the same pan, add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then add chopped onions and sauté until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute.
4. Add Tomato Puree: Stir in the tomato puree and let it simmer until the oil separates. Season with salt and cook for a few more minutes.
5. Finish the Curry: Add cream to the mixture, stirring well. Gently add the fried koftas and simmer for a couple of minutes to combine the flavors.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh coriander, and serve hot with rice or naan.

Paneer and Spinach Quiche

Paneer and Spinach Quiche is a delightful dish that combines the richness of paneer with the nutritious goodness of spinach. It offers a creamy texture and a burst of flavors with every bite, making it a perfect choice for brunch or a light dinner. This recipe is simple to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it accessible for cooks of all levels.

The flaky crust and the cheesy filling create a comforting meal that can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Whether served alongside a fresh salad or enjoyed on its own, this quiche is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 1 pre-made pie crust
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup paneer, crumbled
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
4. Spread the sautéed spinach and crumbled paneer evenly in the pie crust.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the spinach and paneer, making sure it is evenly distributed.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.
7. Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious Paneer and Spinach Quiche!