15+ Delicious Paneer Recipes You Can Whip Up in a Flash
Paneer, also known as Indian cottage cheese, is a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be transformed into a wide range of dishes.
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a light meal, or something a bit more indulgent, paneer fits the bill.
Its mild flavor allows it to absorb spices and sauces easily, making it a favorite in Indian cuisine and beyond.
In this collection of 15+ Quick and Easy Paneer Recipes, you’ll find options for every occasion.
From stir-fries and salads to wraps and curries, these recipes are simple to prepare and full of flavor.
So, if you’re in need of some culinary inspiration or just looking to use up that block of paneer in your fridge, these quick and easy dishes are sure to impress!
15+ Delicious Paneer Recipes You Can Whip Up in a Flash
Paneer is a fantastic ingredient that brings richness and a hearty texture to any meal.
The recipes featured here are designed to save you time while still delivering maximum flavor.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, these quick and easy paneer recipes offer something for everyone.
From the bold and spicy to the light and refreshing, these dishes are perfect for busy weekdays or when you want something tasty in a pinch.
With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, these recipes ensure that you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Enjoy experimenting with paneer and creating your own versions of these tasty classics!
Paneer Stir-Fry with Veggies
This quick and easy paneer stir-fry is a colorful and delicious dish that can be made in under 15 minutes. It combines protein-rich paneer with crunchy vegetables, making it perfect for a light meal or a snack. With simple spices and minimal prep time, this recipe brings out the best flavors of paneer without overpowering the freshness of the vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 200g paneer, cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small carrot, julienned
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle for a few seconds.
- Add sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Toss in the bell pepper and carrot, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.
- Add the paneer cubes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Gently stir everything together and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the paneer is lightly browned.
- Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot with a side of roti or rice.
This paneer stir-fry with veggies is an ideal weeknight meal when you’re short on time but want something healthy and delicious. The balance between the soft paneer and the crunchy veggies creates a perfect harmony of textures, while the simple spices make it flavorful. Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with any grain for a wholesome meal.
Paneer Bhurji (Scrambled Paneer)
Paneer Bhurji is the Indian version of scrambled paneer, similar to scrambled eggs but with a spiced twist. This recipe is not only quick but also extremely versatile—you can serve it as a side, wrap it in a flatbread for a quick snack, or enjoy it with rice. With minimal ingredients and a cooking time of under 10 minutes, this dish packs both protein and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 200g paneer, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tomato, finely chopped
- 1 green chili, chopped
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Let them crackle for a few seconds.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes and green chili. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
- Add turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Add the crumbled paneer to the pan and gently mix everything together. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the paneer is warmed through.
- Garnish with fresh coriander and serve with bread, roti, or as a filling in wraps.
Paneer Bhurji is a fantastic go-to recipe when you’re looking for something quick, hearty, and full of flavor. It’s a great option for breakfast, lunch, or even a light dinner. The blend of spices with the soft paneer makes this dish both comforting and satisfying.
Grilled Paneer Tikka
Grilled Paneer Tikka is an easy-to-make, flavorful appetizer that can be ready in minutes. Perfectly marinated paneer is grilled to perfection, resulting in smoky and charred bites of goodness. This recipe requires very few ingredients and is ideal for a quick snack or a starter for your dinner parties.
Ingredients:
- 200g paneer, cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon yogurt
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon oil
- Skewers (optional)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix together yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, lemon juice, and salt.
- Add paneer cubes to the marinade and coat them well. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Heat a grill pan or regular pan, brush it with oil, and place the marinated paneer cubes on it.
- Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side until the paneer is charred and cooked through.
- Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon and a side of green chutney.
Grilled Paneer Tikka is a crowd-pleasing recipe that is both quick and delicious. The smoky, tangy flavors make it a hit for any occasion, whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself to a snack. It’s a healthy, protein-packed option that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress.
Paneer Masala Sandwich
The Paneer Masala Sandwich is a delicious and quick recipe that’s perfect for a filling snack or light meal. With spiced paneer and crispy bread, this sandwich is full of flavor and can be prepared in just a few minutes. It’s great for a lunchbox or when you’re craving a savory treat but don’t want to spend much time in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 200g paneer, crumbled
- 2 slices of whole wheat or white bread
- 1 tablespoon oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small tomato, finely chopped
- 1 green chili, chopped (optional)
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons green chutney or ketchup
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a pan and sauté the chopped onions until they turn golden.
- Add the tomatoes, green chili, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften.
- Add crumbled paneer and garam masala, and cook for 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined.
- Take two slices of bread and spread green chutney or ketchup on one side of each slice.
- Place the paneer masala mixture between the bread slices to make a sandwich.
- Grill or toast the sandwich in a sandwich maker or on a pan with butter until golden and crispy.
This Paneer Masala Sandwich is a fantastic option for a quick breakfast, lunch, or snack. The combination of crispy bread and spicy paneer makes for a satisfying and flavorful bite. It’s also a great way to pack protein into your diet, and you can easily customize the fillings to suit your taste.
Paneer Tawa Fry
Paneer Tawa Fry is a simple yet flavorful dish that can be whipped up in no time. It involves marinating paneer in basic spices and frying it on a tawa (griddle) until golden and crispy. This recipe is a great choice for a quick snack, appetizer, or side dish, and requires minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 200g paneer, sliced into thick pieces
- 1 tablespoon yogurt
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon oil or butter for frying
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix yogurt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, lemon juice, and salt to make the marinade.
- Coat the paneer slices with the marinade and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Heat oil or butter on a tawa (griddle) over medium heat.
- Fry the paneer slices on the tawa, flipping them occasionally, until they turn golden brown on both sides.
- Garnish with fresh coriander and serve with green chutney or ketchup.
Paneer Tawa Fry is a quick, fuss-free recipe that delivers on flavor and texture. The marinated paneer turns out crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making it a delightful snack or side dish. With minimal ingredients and cooking time, it’s perfect for when you want something tasty in a hurry.
Paneer Salad Bowl
If you’re looking for a healthy and quick recipe, this Paneer Salad Bowl is the perfect option. It combines fresh veggies with lightly sautéed paneer to create a balanced and nutritious meal. Packed with protein and vitamins, this salad can be prepared in under 10 minutes, making it ideal for lunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients:
- 150g paneer, cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cucumber, chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ bell pepper, sliced
- ½ teaspoon cumin powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh mint or coriander for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pan and lightly sauté the paneer cubes for 3-4 minutes until golden on the edges. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the cucumber, tomato, red onion, and bell pepper.
- Add the sautéed paneer to the bowl and sprinkle cumin powder, salt, and pepper over the salad.
- Drizzle lemon juice over the top and toss everything together.
- Garnish with fresh mint or coriander and serve immediately.
The Paneer Salad Bowl is a refreshing and healthy dish that’s packed with nutrients. It’s perfect for those who want a quick and light meal without sacrificing taste or nutrition. The combination of crunchy veggies and warm, sautéed paneer makes this salad both satisfying and delicious.
Paneer Butter Toast
Paneer Butter Toast is a delicious and quick snack that combines creamy paneer with the rich flavor of butter, all served on crispy toast. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, a tea-time snack, or even a light dinner. It’s ready in just 10 minutes, making it a convenient yet tasty option when you need something quick and filling.
Ingredients:
- 200g paneer, crumbled
- 2 slices of bread (whole wheat or white)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small tomato, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat half of the butter in a pan and sauté the chopped onion until soft.
- Add tomatoes, red chili powder, cumin powder, and salt, cooking until the tomatoes soften.
- Add the crumbled paneer and cook for 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined.
- Spread the remaining butter on the bread slices and toast them in a pan until golden brown.
- Top the toasted bread with the paneer mixture, garnish with fresh coriander, and serve immediately.
Paneer Butter Toast is a comforting and easy snack that can be made in minutes. The crispy toast paired with the buttery paneer mixture offers a delightful contrast of textures. Whether enjoyed as a quick bite or a light meal, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Paneer Quesadilla
Paneer Quesadilla is a fun fusion dish that combines the flavors of Mexican cuisine with Indian spices. This cheesy and crispy delight is packed with spiced paneer, making it a great snack or quick meal. With minimal prep and cook time, it’s a great way to use pantry staples and make something tasty in no time.
Ingredients:
- 200g paneer, crumbled
- 4 tortillas (wheat or corn)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small tomato, chopped
- 1 green chili, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Salsa or sour cream for serving
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the chopped onions until soft.
- Add the tomatoes, green chili, cumin powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes are soft.
- Add the crumbled paneer and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
- Heat a tortilla on a separate pan, sprinkle half with cheese, then spread the paneer mixture over it.
- Top with more cheese and fold the tortilla in half.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the cheese melts and the tortilla is crispy.
- Serve hot with salsa or sour cream.
Paneer Quesadilla is an easy-to-make, fusion snack that’s crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. The spiced paneer filling combined with the melted cheese makes for a mouthwatering dish, perfect for a quick lunch or snack. Serve it with salsa or sour cream for an extra touch of deliciousness.
Spicy Paneer Wrap
This Spicy Paneer Wrap is a delicious and convenient meal option that you can whip up in no time. Filled with spiced paneer and crunchy veggies, it’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner. The wrap offers a great balance of protein and vegetables while being incredibly easy to customize to your preferences.
Ingredients:
- 200g paneer, cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 small bell pepper, sliced
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin powder
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 whole wheat wraps or tortillas
- 2 tablespoons yogurt or mayonnaise
- Fresh lettuce leaves
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the onion and bell pepper until slightly softened.
- Add the paneer cubes, turmeric powder, cumin powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the paneer is well coated with spices.
- Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
- Spread a layer of yogurt or mayonnaise on each tortilla.
- Place fresh lettuce leaves on the tortilla, followed by the spicy paneer mixture.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and roll up the wrap tightly.
- Slice in half and serve immediately.
The Spicy Paneer Wrap is a flavorful, portable meal that’s perfect for busy days. The spiced paneer combined with fresh veggies in a soft wrap offers a satisfying balance of textures and flavors. It’s easy to prepare, making it a great option for a quick lunch or dinner on the go.
Paneer Tikka Roll
Paneer Tikka Roll is a flavorful and quick Indian street food-inspired dish that’s perfect for a filling snack or a light meal. It features marinated and grilled paneer wrapped in a soft roti or tortilla, along with crunchy vegetables and tangy sauces. This easy-to-make recipe combines all the flavors of a traditional paneer tikka but in a convenient and portable wrap.
Ingredients:
- 200g paneer, cubed
- 2 whole wheat rotis or tortillas
- 2 tablespoons yogurt
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon oil
- Sliced onions, cucumbers, and bell peppers (for garnish)
- Green chutney and yogurt for serving
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, cumin powder, lemon juice, and salt to make the marinade.
- Add the paneer cubes to the marinade and let them sit for 10 minutes.
- Heat oil in a pan and grill the marinated paneer cubes for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Warm the rotis or tortillas and spread a layer of green chutney or yogurt.
- Place the grilled paneer and garnish with sliced onions, cucumbers, and bell peppers.
- Roll the wrap tightly, and serve with extra chutney or yogurt on the side.
Paneer Tikka Roll is a delicious and convenient recipe that’s packed with smoky, tangy flavors. The marinated paneer pairs perfectly with fresh vegetables and soft rotis, making this roll a satisfying meal or snack. It’s ideal for when you’re short on time but still crave something flavorful and wholesome.
Paneer and Spinach Stir-Fry
Paneer and Spinach Stir-Fry is a quick and nutritious recipe that combines protein-packed paneer with vibrant, healthy spinach. This dish is light, flavorful, and can be ready in under 15 minutes, making it a great choice for a quick lunch or side dish. With minimal ingredients, it delivers maximum taste and nutrition.
Ingredients:
- 200g paneer, cubed
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Let them crackle for a few seconds.
- Add sliced onions and garlic, sautéing until the onions are golden.
- Toss in the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- Add paneer cubes, turmeric powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the paneer is lightly browned.
- Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.
This Paneer and Spinach Stir-Fry is a simple, nutritious meal that’s perfect for when you want something healthy but don’t have a lot of time. The combination of spinach and paneer delivers a great balance of protein, vitamins, and flavors. It’s an ideal dish to enjoy with rice or flatbread for a light and wholesome meal.
Paneer and Peas Curry
Paneer and Peas Curry is a quick and comforting dish that brings together soft paneer cubes and sweet peas in a lightly spiced tomato-based gravy. This easy-to-make curry is perfect for a quick weeknight meal and pairs well with roti, naan, or rice. It’s a wholesome dish that’s packed with protein and vegetables, making it both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 200g paneer, cubed
- 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Let them crackle, then add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
- Add the tomato puree, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the oil starts to separate.
- Stir in the green peas and paneer cubes, and cook for another 5 minutes until the peas are tender and the paneer absorbs the flavors.
- Garnish with fresh coriander and serve with roti or rice.
Paneer and Peas Curry is a comforting, hearty dish that’s quick to make but rich in flavor. The sweet peas complement the soft paneer, while the light tomato gravy adds warmth and depth. It’s an excellent option for a satisfying meal that’s both healthy and tasty, perfect for busy weeknights.
Paneer Capsicum Stir-Fry
Paneer Capsicum Stir-Fry is a simple yet delicious dish that combines crunchy bell peppers with soft paneer cubes, all tossed in a light blend of spices. This recipe can be made in under 15 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a quick meal or side dish. It’s packed with flavor, color, and nutrition, making it a vibrant addition to your meal rotation.
Ingredients:
- 200g paneer, cubed
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Let them crackle for a few seconds.
- Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Toss in the sliced red and green bell peppers, stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Add the paneer cubes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring gently.
- Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot with roti or rice.
Paneer Capsicum Stir-Fry is a quick, healthy dish that’s packed with flavor and texture. The combination of crispy bell peppers and soft paneer makes it a delightful meal, perfect for busy days. It’s light yet satisfying and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with any bread or grain for a more complete meal.
Paneer Bhuna Masala
Paneer Bhuna Masala is a rich, flavorful dish that features paneer cooked in a thick, spiced tomato and onion gravy. It’s a quick recipe that delivers big flavors without much effort, making it ideal for a weeknight meal. The spices blend beautifully with the paneer, creating a savory, aromatic dish that pairs perfectly with roti or rice.
Ingredients:
- 200g paneer, cubed
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Let them crackle, then sauté the chopped onion until golden.
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the tomato puree, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the oil separates from the masala.
- Add the paneer cubes and stir gently, letting them cook in the masala for 3-4 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh coriander and serve with naan, roti, or rice.
Paneer Bhuna Masala is a robust, spicy dish that’s perfect for those who love bold flavors. The thick, aromatic gravy pairs wonderfully with the paneer, making it a satisfying and indulgent meal. It’s a great option for when you want something flavorful and comforting without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Paneer Corn Salad
Paneer Corn Salad is a light, refreshing, and quick recipe that’s perfect for a healthy snack or side dish. The combination of soft paneer cubes, sweet corn, and crunchy vegetables, all tossed in a tangy lemon dressing, makes this salad both nutritious and delicious. It’s a great option for a quick, light meal or a side dish to accompany your main course.
Ingredients:
- 200g paneer, cubed
- 1 cup boiled sweet corn
- 1 cucumber, chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh mint or coriander for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix the paneer cubes, boiled corn, chopped cucumber, tomato, and onion.
- Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad.
- Season with salt and pepper, and toss everything together.
- Garnish with fresh mint or coriander and serve immediately.
Paneer Corn Salad is a refreshing, healthy dish that’s packed with vibrant flavors and textures. The combination of crunchy vegetables, soft paneer, and sweet corn makes this salad both satisfying and nutritious. It’s perfect for when you want a quick, light meal or an energizing side to pair with your main dish.