Hey y’all! If you’re looking to add a little crunch and a whole lot of flavor to your next meal, this Crispy Baked Tofu recipe is about to become your new favorite. It’s the perfect way to enjoy plant-based protein, whether you’re a tofu enthusiast or just tofu-curious. With a golden, crunchy exterior and a tender, savory inside, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even game-day snacking. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Baked Tofu
- Super crunchy on the outside and perfectly tender inside, every single time.
- Totally customizable—enjoy as a snack, salad topper, or main dish.
- Easy, hands-off preparation with no frying and minimal mess.
- Plant-based, protein-packed, and naturally gluten-free.
- Meal prep friendly and keeps well for quick lunches all week.
Ingredients for Crispy Baked Tofu
- 1 (14-ounce) block extra-firm tofu
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Crispy Baked Tofu
Step 1: Press the Tofu
Drain the tofu and wrap it in a clean kitchen towel. Place something heavy (like a skillet) on top and let it press for 20 minutes to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving crispiness.
Step 2: Cut and Season
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. In a large bowl, gently toss the cubes with olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Step 3: Coat with Cornstarch
Sprinkle cornstarch over the tofu and toss again to coat each piece lightly. This creates a crispy, golden crust during baking.
Step 4: Bake
Place the tofu cubes on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the cubes halfway through, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy on all sides.
Step 5: Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve your Crispy Baked Tofu hot and enjoy!
Notes & Helpful Cooking Tips
- Don’t skip pressing the tofu—it helps achieve that signature crunch. Learn more about how to press tofu effectively.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- For even crispier tofu, try broiling for the last 2 minutes.
Crispy Baked Tofu Variations
- Spicy Sriracha: Add 1 teaspoon sriracha to your marinade for a kick.
- Sesame Ginger: Replace olive oil with toasted sesame oil and add 1 teaspoon grated ginger.
- Lemon Herb: Add 1 tablespoon lemon juice and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning to the marinade.
Required Equipment for Crispy Baked Tofu
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Tofu press or a heavy pan
Storage Instructions for Crispy Baked Tofu
Let the tofu cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To re-crisp, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain crunch.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Serve over jasmine rice or quinoa with a side of stir-fried veggies.
- Add to salads or Buddha bowls for a protein boost.
- Toss with your favorite dipping sauces, such as sweet chili or peanut sauce. Check out this easy peanut dipping sauce.
Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Baked Tofu
- Cut tofu into evenly sized pieces for uniform baking.
- Allow space between cubes on the baking sheet for maximum airflow and crispiness.
- For extra flavor, marinate tofu for 30 minutes before baking. Learn about the science behind crispiness.
Crispy Baked Tofu FAQ
- Can I make Crispy Baked Tofu without cornstarch?
- Yes! Substitute with arrowroot powder or potato starch for similar results.
- Can I freeze baked tofu?
- Yes, but the texture may change slightly. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
- What if I don’t have extra-firm tofu?
- Firm tofu can work, but be sure to press out as much water as possible for the best texture.
Ingredients
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
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1Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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2Drain the tofu and press it for at least 10 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.
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3In a large bowl, gently toss the tofu cubes with olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
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4Sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu and toss again to coat each piece lightly.
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5Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
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6Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as a snack or add to your favorite dishes.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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