This baked BBQ tofu is a wholesome, flavor-packed dish that’s both simple and satisfying.
Each bite is smoky, tangy, and coated in a rich barbecue glaze, while offering a hearty boost of plant-based protein and fiber.
With minimal saturated fat and plenty of nutrient-rich ingredients, it’s a smart everyday option.
Easy to make, versatile for bowls, wraps, or salads, and perfect for meal-prep, this dish makes healthy eating truly crave-worthy.
Baked BBQ Tofu
Equipment
- 1 Tofu Press (or heavy object + kitchen towel method)
- (1) Mixing bowl (medium)
- (1) Whisk
- 1 Silicone Spatula
- (1) Baking sheet
- 1 Parchment paper
- 1 tongs
- 1 sharp knife
- 1 cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 block 14 oz organic extra-firm tofu
- ¼ cup + 2 tbsp vegan barbecue sauce divided; check gluten-free if needed
- 1 tbsp gluten-free reduced-sodium tamari or soy sauce if not gluten-free
- 2 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp nutritional yeast
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Press the tofu: Remove the tofu from its packaging and drain any excess liquid. For the best texture, press the tofu for 20–30 minutes. If you have a tofu press, secure the block and let it sit. If not, wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel, place it on a sturdy plate, and weigh it down with a heavy pot or stack of books. This helps remove moisture, allowing the tofu to absorb more flavor and crisp up in the oven.
- Prepare the marinade: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of barbecue sauce, tamari, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix until smooth and well combined—the marinade should be tangy, smoky, and slightly sweet.
- Cut and marinate the tofu: Once pressed, slice the tofu into even cubes about ¾ to 1 inch thick. Gently add the cubes to the marinade and use a silicone spatula to coat each piece thoroughly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the tofu to soak up the flavors.
- Bake the tofu: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the marinated tofu cubes in a single layer, leaving space between each piece for even cooking. Bake for 30 minutes, flipping each cube carefully halfway through. The tofu should turn golden with slightly crisp edges.
- Glaze with more barbecue sauce: Rinse out the mixing bowl used for the marinade. Add the remaining ¼ cup barbecue sauce. Once the tofu is out of the oven, transfer the hot cubes into the bowl.Use tongs and a spatula to gently toss the tofu until it’s fully coated in the sticky, smoky glaze.
- Serve and enjoy: Your baked BBQ tofu is ready to serve! It pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, salads, grain bowls, or wrapped in flatbread. Enjoy it warm for dinner or chill it for meal-prep lunches throughout the week.
Notes
- Pressing tofu is essential for removing excess water and achieving a firmer texture.
- Marinating for at least 30 minutes ensures the tofu absorbs smoky and tangy flavors.
- Flipping halfway through baking helps the tofu cook evenly and crisp on all sides.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- This recipe works with both store-bought or homemade barbecue sauce.
- Adjust the amount of BBQ sauce to your taste preference—extra sauce makes it stickier and richer.
- Works well as a main dish, meal-prep protein, or flavorful topping for bowls and wraps.
- Tofu keeps its flavor well when refrigerated, making it a perfect make-ahead option.
- Nutritional yeast adds subtle cheesiness and extra nutrients, but can be skipped if unavailable.
- Serve warm for a hearty dinner or chilled for a refreshing protein-packed lunch.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect BBQ Tofu
The key to incredible baked BBQ tofu lies in proper preparation.
Pressing the tofu is non-negotiable—it creates space for the marinade to penetrate and prevents soggy cubes.
When cutting the tofu, try to keep the pieces uniform so they cook evenly in the oven.
A silicone spatula is especially helpful for coating tofu gently without breaking the cubes.
For even more flavor, marinate overnight instead of just 30 minutes.
If you prefer crispier tofu, extend the baking time by 5 minutes and place the tray closer to the top heating element during the last few minutes of cooking.
Serving Suggestions and Flavor Pairings
This baked BBQ tofu is incredibly versatile, making it easy to enjoy in countless ways.
Serve it hot with roasted vegetables and rice for a balanced dinner, or pile it into a wrap with crunchy slaw for a quick lunch.
It’s equally delicious on top of a salad or grain bowl for a protein boost.
For a more indulgent option, pair it with sweet potato fries or cornbread for a cozy barbecue-inspired meal.
The smoky-sweet flavor of the tofu also pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, avocado, or fresh herbs like cilantro.
Storage Tips and Reheating Guide
Store leftover BBQ tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
The flavors deepen as it sits, making it a convenient option for meal-prep.
For best results, reheat the tofu in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its crispy edges, though microwaving works in a pinch if you’re short on time.
This dish can also be enjoyed cold straight from the fridge, especially as a salad or wrap filling.
Freezing is not recommended, as the barbecue glaze may separate and the tofu texture can become spongy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this recipe oil-free?
Yes, you can omit the olive oil if desired. The tofu will still absorb plenty of flavor from the marinade, though it may not crisp up as much in the oven.
For added crispiness, bake a few minutes longer.
2. Do I have to use nutritional yeast?
Not at all! Nutritional yeast adds a subtle cheesy flavor and extra nutrients, but you can skip it if you don’t have any.
The tofu will still be flavorful thanks to the smoky paprika and barbecue sauce.
3. Which barbecue sauce works best?
Any vegan and gluten-free barbecue sauce will do, but look for one with a balance of smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet notes.
Homemade barbecue sauce is an excellent option if you prefer full control over flavor and ingredients.
4. Can I air-fry the tofu instead of baking?
Absolutely. Air-frying gives tofu an extra crisp exterior.
Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, then toss with barbecue sauce at the end.
5. How can I use the leftovers creatively?
Leftover BBQ tofu makes a fantastic protein for wraps, tacos, Buddha bowls, or even homemade pizza.
You can also chop it into smaller pieces and stir it into fried rice or pasta for a smoky twist.
