Simple Baked Tofu

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This easy baked tofu transforms humble tofu into a versatile, high-protein snack perfect for any dish. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a hearty meal, these enchanted bites will delight.

Simple Baked Tofu - Quick, Easy, and High-Protein

This simple baked tofu has been my go-to for YEARS!

Tofu is fantastic to have around for snacks or to throw into other dishes for a protein kick. Not only can it adapt to any cuisine, but it is also high-protein and nutrient-dense. Go Tofu!

Every week we make this no-fuss style of simple baked tofu with less than 5 minutes of active cooking time. Yes, less than 5 mins! If you are in the mood, you can spend a little extra time with adventurous spices, fun shapes, crispy coatings, or even marinating it! Worry not, my gnomies, we’ll take you on those adventures in other recipes.

Our preferred way to cook this simple baked tofu is the air fryer. We have a toaster oven-style air fryer which makes it easy to do two packages of tofu at once.

Baking this simple baked tofu in the oven takes no extra effort; it may require extra baking time to get to the texture you prefer, but that’s just more time to spend bubbling up your new potion or practicing the newest dance moves.

How to Use Simple Baked Tofu

If you don’t manage to eat all this simple baked tofu straight from the baking sheet, there are many wonderful ways to use it. Enjoy it as a high-protein tofu snack, a delightful addition to salads or grain bowls, or as the star of your favorite sandwiches. Let your imagination run wild as you explore the many ways to incorporate this enchanted tofu into your meals.

Protein Snack

Hot or cold, simple baked tofu can be a quick grab-and-go high-protein snack. You can dip it in tzatziki or BBQ sauce. We sometimes pair it with whatever fruit we have around or maybe some crackers for the powerful snack duo of protein + fiber-filled carbs.

Salad/Grain Bowl Topper

We have salads for lunch most of the week and throw a handful of this simple baked tofu on top. It’s a perfect addition for those looking for healthy tofu snacks or vegan snack ideas.

Sandwiches

When we have tofu slices instead of cubes, we love making a sandwich out of them. You can leave it as is for a vegetarian or vegan BLT. You can toss it in buffalo or your favorite sauce for an extra yum factor. This totally works for hot sandwiches, too. Throw some cheese, tomato, and basil on it for a Tofu Parmesan Sandwich.

Soups

Canned or homemade, vegetarian & vegan soups can often use some extra protein. You may even want to crumble this simple baked tofu with your hands for smaller bites. It’s a great tofu soup addition that enhances the nutritional value.

Entrees

Anything you can do with boneless chicken, you can do with tofu. Tofu Parmesan, Tofu Stroganoff, Lemon Pepper Tofu, Tofu Stir Fry. These are perfect tofu meal ideas for anyone looking to switch up their protein sources.

Will It Taste Like Tofu?

Yes, and it will also taste like whatever yumminess you put on it or dip it in. You know your taste preferences better than anyone else. Experiment with flavors to find what works for you. This versatility makes it one of the best baked tofu variations.

Ingredients

• 1 package tofu (Firm or Extra-Firm)
• Salt
• Pepper
• Oil (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

   • Preheat your oven to 450°F.
   • If air frying, preheat to 425°F.

2. Drain & Press the Tofu

   • Drain & rinse the tofu.
   • Press it to remove extra moisture or skip this step and add 5 minutes to the bake time.

3. Cut the Tofu

   • Slice the tofu into your preferred size. Common choices are cubes or 2-inch squares.

4. Season the Tofu

   • If baking, lightly coat both sides of the tofu with oil.
   • Lightly salt both sides of the tofu. Himalayan Pink Salt is recommended.
   • Add pepper and other seasonings as desired (see Tips for ideas).

5. Get Ready to Bake

   • Use parchment paper to prevent the tofu from sticking to the baking sheet.
   • Place the tofu on the baking sheet or air fryer basket.

6. Cook the Tofu

   • Bake at 450°F for 25 minutes or air fry at 425°F for 20 minutes.
   • For a denser texture, increase the baking time in 5-minute increments.
   • If the tofu wasn’t pressed, add 5 minutes to the bake time.
   • Optionally, flip the tofu halfway through cooking.

Servings

4 snacks or 2 meals

FAQ

How do I store simple baked tofu?

Store your simple baked tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, making it ideal for tofu for meal prep.

Can I marinate the tofu before baking?

Absolutely! Marinating the tofu can add even more flavor. Just be sure to drain and press the tofu before marinating to help it absorb the flavors better.

What type of tofu is best for this recipe?

Firm or extra-firm tofu works best for this simple baked tofu. These types hold their shape well during baking and have a great texture.

Can I make this recipe without oil?

Yes, you can make this simple baked tofu without oil. Simply skip the oil in the seasoning step. The tofu will still turn out delicious, though it might be slightly less crispy.

How can I make my tofu crispier?

To make your tofu crispier, make sure to press out as much moisture as possible before baking. You can also bake it for a few extra minutes or use a convection oven setting if available. Air fryer tofu also tends to come out extra crispy.

Conclusion

Try this simple baked tofu for a versatile, high-protein snack or meal addition. It’s quick, easy, and can be customized with your favorite seasonings. Whether you’re using it in salads, sandwiches, or as a snack, this easy baked tofu is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and finding new ways to incorporate this delicious tofu into your meals! If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to check out our other tofu recipes for more tasty ideas.