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baked tofu on purple plate
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Easy Baked Tofu (to Share with the Kids)

Learn how to make the easiest, most delish Baked Tofu with basic pantry staples and a hands-off method. This is our favorite way to turn an affordable plant-based protein into a meal component to share. We like this over rice noodles, rice, or quinoa, but it's very versatile.
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 28 minutes
Total Time 58 minutes
Servings 4 -6
Calories 87kcal

Ingredients

  • 12-15 ounces extra-firm tofu block
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce (or tamari)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder and/or dried ginger (optional)

Instructions

  • Open the tofu and drain off the liquid. Place between two clean folded kitchen towels and put a heavy bowl or plate on top. Let sit for at least 30 minutes and up to 8 hours. This helps remove liquid from the tofu to make it crispier when baked in the oven.
  • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Place the tofu on a cutting board. Cut into 1-inch cubes by cutting slices, then cutting each slice into strips, and then into cubes.
  • Place tofu onto the prepared baking sheet and toss with the olive oil, soy sauce, cornstarch, and optional spices, if using. Spread tofu out evenly so it's not touching.
  • Bake for 28-30 minutes, or until golden brown. (I don't turn it over—it browns nicely on all sides in my experience.) Remove from oven and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Serve chilled from the fridge (this tastes like the marinated baked tofu you commonly find in salad bars!) or warmed slightly.
  • Drain the tofu between clean kitchen towels for at least 30 minutes and up to 8 hours to absorb more of the moisture in the tofu.
  • Use extra-firm or super-firm tofu here for the best results.
  • Bake on parchment paper for easy clean up.
  • We like this over rice noodles, rice, or quinoa with a side of Peanut Sauce, but it's very versatile.
  • Cut up into smaller pieces for 1-year-olds or older babies who are not adept at taking bites yet.
  • Try in the air fryer at 400 degrees for 10-12 minutes.
  • Gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 87kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Sodium: 187mg | Potassium: 138mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Calcium: 27mg | Iron: 1mg