Baked Tofu is a quick and simple vegan protein seasoned with smoked paprika and salt that's ready to eat in less than an hour! Add it to your favorite main dish or serve it alone for the easiest tofu lunch or dinner.
This post is sponsored by the Ez Tofu Press.
BAKED TOFU RECIPE
Tofu is my go-to meat alternative, and Baked Tofu is my favorite way to enjoy it! Seasoned with a little garlic salt and smoked paprika, this firm tofu is roasted in oil for a crispy outside but a juicy and tender inside.
INGREDIENTS IN BAKED TOFU
Tofu: Tofu is a super versatile vegetarian and vegan protein made with condensed soy milk. I prefer firm or extra firm tofu for this recipe.
Cornstarch: You can always skip this ingredient, but cornstarch is what helps make the outside extra crispy in the oven.
Garlic salt: Garlic is one of my favorite ingredients, and garlic salt is a quick 2-in-1 ingredient that adds tons of flavor in a pinch.
Smoked paprika: Similar to paprika, the peppers are smoked and dried before being ground into this incredibly flavorful red spice. You can use regular paprika if you don't have smoked.
Oil: Like the cornstarch, this helps make the tofu crispy but also makes the seasonings adhere to the tofu during baking.
If you have any questions, please leave a comment below and I will get back to you!
HOW TO MAKE BAKED TOFU
- First, use your EZ Tofu Press to drain some liquid from the tofu, tightening the knobs every few minutes.
- Then, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes and toss it in oil.
- Next, add your garlic salt, smoked paprika, and cornstarch to the tofu and oil.
- Now, mix the tofu and seasonings together until it's thoroughly coated.
- Time to bake! Line a lipped baking sheet with parchment paper and transfer your tofu to the sheet. Bake for about 15 minutes on each side until slightly browned and crispy.
- Serve with your favorite side dish and enjoy!
These numbered steps match the numbered photos above and are for illustration purposes. For the complete list of ingredients and instructions, please see the recipe below!
WHAT TO SERVE WITH BAKED TOFU
The upside of this simple Baked Tofu recipe is you can change the seasonings to match any cuisine or side dish.
I love to pair mine with Air Fryer Green Beans. It's just two ingredients that you can whip up while the tofu is in the oven. Or you can try this Vegan Green Bean Casserole!
Air fryer sides are the best because you can easily make them away from the stovetop and oven. This Air Fryer Zucchini is just as savory as sautéed zucchini without babysitting the pan.
HOW TO PRESS TOFU
Tofu is a great option for a meatless meal, but it can be intimidating if you've never worked with it before.
When making tofu, your first steps to press your tofu block. I love using my EZ Tofu Press because it lets me do other things while the tofu preps for cooking.
I’ve had mine for years, and it is by far my favorite kitchen tool. This press is unique in that it is made from BPA free plastic and stainless steel so it won’t rust and will keep pressing for years to come.
You’ll want to start with firm or extra firm block tofu, and before adding heat to it you need to remove some of the liquid from it.
If the tofu is too liquid-like, you won’t get good browning or any crispiness – and you definitely want both of those things in your final dish! This step takes about 15 minutes if you’re using a tofu press.
You can get your own on Amazon. I promise you’ll love it! Check them out on Facebook to learn more.
MORE VEGETARIAN RECIPES TO TRY
If you love tofu, you'll devour this Honey Sriracha Tofu for a super simple Asian-inspired dish. You can also pair it with this Air Fryer Fried Rice!
I love to put tofu in everything, and these Tofu Noodle Bowls are so versatile. Great for meal prep, too!
Looking for vegetarian breakfast ideas? Try these Air Fryer Tater Tot and Egg Cups for a quick breakfast on the go.
Make it a meatless Mexican night with Air Fryer Zucchini Boats. Ditch the taco shells and stuff these sweet zucchini with your favorite taco toppings.
Baked Tofu
Equipment
- EZ Tofu Press
- Lipped baking sheet
Ingredients
- 1 block tofu firm or extra firm
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ to 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon oil
Instructions
- Press your tofu for 12 minutes. Tighten the knobs on the tofu press every 3 to 4 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
- Remove tofu from the press. Cut tofu into cubes. Put cubes into a large mixing bowl and add oil, spices, and cornstarch. Gently stir.
- Line a lipped baking sheet with parchment paper. Place tofu on baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes. Flip cubes and bake an additional 12 to 15 minutes.
My kids loved this! Thanks for saving dinner once again!