Baked Crispy Tofu

Name: Baked Crispy Tofu
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 block of firm tofu; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Cornstarch for dusting

Highlighted under: Fresh Living Plates

I absolutely love making Baked Crispy Tofu for quick dinners or meal prep. It's incredibly versatile and can be paired with so many different sauces and sides. The best part is how you can achieve that perfect crispy texture without frying, simply using the oven. I’ve experimented with various marinades and spices, and I find that a combination of soy sauce and garlic powder creates the most flavorful tofu. It’s an easy, healthy dish that my whole family enjoys.

Created by

Ottilie James

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:45:36.773Z

When I first tried making tofu, I struggled with getting the texture just right. To make it crispy, I discovered that pressing the tofu before baking makes all the difference. It’s amazing how a simple technique can transform a bland ingredient into a star dish. I've served this to friends who were skeptical about tofu, and they've all been pleasantly surprised!

Another tip I learned is to leave some space between the pieces on the baking sheet. This allows the hot air to circulate and crisp them up beautifully. Pair it with a sweet and spicy sauce, and you'll have a dish that has everyone asking for seconds!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crispy texture that rivals fried options
Easy to customize with your favorite sauces
A healthy plant-based protein addition to any meal

The Importance of Pressing Tofu

Pressing tofu is a crucial step in preparing the perfect Baked Crispy Tofu. By removing excess moisture, you allow the tofu to absorb more flavor from the marinade. This process not only enhances the taste but also prevents the tofu from becoming soggy during baking. I recommend using a tofu press if you have one, as it evenly distributes pressure. If not, wrapping the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and placing a heavy object on top for around 15-20 minutes works well too.

The texture you achieve after pressing is key. You want the tofu to feel firm and slightly dense. If you skip this step, your baked tofu may come out chewy rather than crispy. Remember, a properly pressed block of firm tofu ensures that each cube retains a delightful crunch when baked.

Flavor and Texture Optimizations

Cornstarch is your ally in achieving that sought-after crispy texture. Dusting cornstarch on the marinated tofu acts as a layer that crisps up nicely in the oven. Be sure to distribute it evenly, as clumps can lead to uneven texture. If you find cornstarch insufficient, you may experiment with panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch, but note that this will slightly alter the overall flavor and texture.

Baking at the right temperature is also essential for optimal results. Preheat your oven to a solid 400°F (200°C) to ensure your tofu starts cooking uniformly as soon as it hits the pan. You’ll know it’s ready to flip when the edges turn golden and the bottom releases easily from the parchment paper.

Ingredients

For the Tofu

1 block of firm tofu
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Cornstarch for dusting

Feel free to add any other seasoning or sauces that you love!

Instructions

Prepare the Tofu

Press the tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Then cut it into cubes.

Marinade the Tofu

In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the tofu cubes, tossing gently to coat.

Coat with Cornstarch

Sprinkle cornstarch over the marinated tofu cubes and toss until evenly coated. This will help achieve the crispiness.

Bake the Tofu

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the tofu cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Serve

Once crispy and golden, remove from the oven and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or over rice.

Enjoy your delicious baked crispy tofu!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding some chili flakes to your marinade or serve with sriracha.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Crispy Tofu is incredibly versatile and complements a variety of dishes. Consider serving it atop a warm bed of jasmine or brown rice, where the crispy cubes contrast beautifully with the soft grains. For a more refreshing meal, toss the tofu into a fresh salad; its texture can elevate even the simplest greens and dressings.

You can also use the baked tofu in wraps or grain bowls, pairing it with ingredients like avocado, sautéed vegetables, or a spicy peanut sauce. The tofu's inherent flavor makes it an excellent vehicle for taste; don’t hesitate to drizzle your favorite sauce over it right before serving for an extra flavor kick.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you want to prep Baked Crispy Tofu in advance, marinate the tofu cubes and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves time but allows the tofu to absorb flavors more deeply. After baking, store any leftovers in an airtight container; it will keep well in the fridge for up to three days.

For longer storage, consider freezing the baked tofu. Simply cool it completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring it to a zip-top bag. When reheating, a quick stint in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes will restore its crispiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use soft tofu for this recipe?

Soft tofu will not crisp up in the same way firm tofu does, so it's recommended to use firm or extra-firm tofu.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with baked tofu?

Teriyaki sauce, peanut sauce, or a simple soy sauce with sesame oil are all great options!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

→ Can I air fry the tofu instead?

Yes! Air frying at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes will also give you a deliciously crispy tofu.