Name: Breaded Crispy Tofu Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Ingredients: 1 block super firm tofu (16 ounces); 4 tablespoons cornstarch; ⅓ cup unsweetened, unflavored non-dairy milk; Spray oil (optional); 1 container (8 ounces) plain panko breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes; ½ teaspoon salt

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 11 reviews

If you’re craving something with the perfect balance of crunch and tenderness, this Breaded Crispy Tofu Recipe is a total game-changer. Imagine golden, crunchy tofu triangles that are delightfully crispy on the outside but beautifully soft and silky inside, perfectly seasoned with a blend of garlic, onion, and paprika. This dish is incredibly versatile, whether you enjoy it as a satisfying snack, an appetizer, or as the star protein in a hearty bowl or wrap. Trust me, once you try this Breaded Crispy Tofu Recipe, it will absolutely become a beloved staple in your cooking rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a wooden board placed on a white marbled surface, with nine triangular pieces of a white, crumbly food item (likely cheese or tofu) evenly spaced in two rows along the right side of the board. Above the board, there are three small white bowls arranged in a loose triangular shape. The bowl on the top left has a white liquid inside, the bowl on the bottom left contains a white powdery substance, and the bowl on the right is filled with a light brown fine crumb-like ingredient. The lighting is soft and natural, creating gentle shadows and highlighting the textures. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this Breaded Crispy Tofu Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role: the super firm tofu provides that sturdy, creamy base, the cornstarch brings the crucial crunch, and the seasoning-packed breadcrumbs infuse flavor and texture that will have you hooked from first bite.

Super firm tofu (16 ounces): The sturdiness of super firm tofu ensures it holds its shape and crisps up beautifully in the oven.
Cornstarch (4 tablespoons): This is your secret weapon for an irresistibly crispy coating that stays crunchy long after baking.
Non-dairy milk (⅓ cup, unsweetened, unflavored): Acts as a perfect moist layer to help the breadcrumbs stick without overpowering the flavor.
Plain panko breadcrumbs (8 ounces): Fluffy and light, these create that signature crunch; blending them with spices takes this recipe to the next level.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds savory depth and aromatic warmth to the breadcrumb coating.
Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances the savory profile with mild sweetness and complexity.
Paprika (1 teaspoon): Brings a subtle smoky note and vibrant color to the breading.
Dried parsley flakes (1 teaspoon): Sprinkles in a hint of freshness and herbal brightness.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for highlighting all the delicious flavors and balancing the seasoning.
Spray oil: Lightly spritzing before baking promotes even browning and that irresistible crust.

How to Make Breaded Crispy Tofu Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Breadcrumbs

First things first, preheat your oven to a toasty 425°F (218°C) to get it hot and ready for crispy perfection. Next, toss the plain panko breadcrumbs and all the seasonings—garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried parsley, and salt—into a blender. Let it whirl for about 30 seconds until everything mingles together into a uniform, flavored breadcrumb mix. Then, scoop out about two-thirds of a cup, setting it aside in a wide, flat dish that makes breading your tofu easy and mess-free.

Step 2: Slice and Shape the Tofu

Drain the tofu block and carefully slice it in half crosswise to create two slabs. From there, cut each slab into strips roughly a quarter-inch thick, then turn those strips diagonal to craft charming tofu triangles. These bite-sized shapes not only look inviting but also ensure each piece crisps evenly in the oven.

Step 3: The Breading Process

Now it’s time for the fun assembly line! Take the tofu triangles and coat each piece first in cornstarch—this step is key for creating that crusty barrier. Then dip them into the non-dairy milk to moisten. Don’t rush this; let excess drip off so the breadcrumbs stick nicely without getting soggy. Finally, roll each piece in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture until thoroughly coated. Lay the breaded tofu in a single layer on a baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

For that ultimate crunch, spritz your tofu lightly with spray oil and slide the tray into the oven. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through baking so both sides achieve a gorgeous golden-brown color. Keep an eye on them; when the aroma fills your kitchen and the tofu feels firm to the touch, you know they’re ready!

Step 5: Let It Cool and Enjoy

Don’t rush to dive in! Let your breaded crispy tofu cool for 5 to 10 minutes after baking. This resting time allows the coating to set just right, giving you the best texture and flavor experience with every bite.

How to Serve Breaded Crispy Tofu Recipe

The image shows a close-up view of several triangular-shaped fried food pieces stacked together on a white plate. Each piece has a crunchy, golden-brown crumb coating with a rough texture, giving a crispy look. The pieces are thick and stacked unevenly, filling most of the plate. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh scallions or a handful of toasted sesame seeds onto your crispy tofu to add color, texture, and an extra burst of flavor. A drizzle of tangy sriracha mayo or tangy tamari sauce is always a crowd-pleaser and complements the savory coating brilliantly.

Side Dishes

This Breaded Crispy Tofu Recipe shines alongside vibrant bowls of steamed veggies, fluffy jasmine rice, or crunchy slaws. For a cozy meal, serve it with roasted sweet potatoes or a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette that balances the richness of the tofu.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond just a plate! Stuff these crispy tofu triangles inside warm wraps with crunchy veggies and zingy sauces for an easy handheld delight. Or arrange them atop fresh garden salads or grain bowls for a protein-packed powerhouse. You can even serve them as finger food at your next get-together with an array of dipping sauces to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got some breaded tofu left over? Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh. While the crunch might soften over time, reheating will bring back some of that crispiness.

Freezing

If you want to save these crispy treasures for longer, freeze the breaded tofu pieces on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep their flavor and texture well for up to 2 months, ready for quick meals later on.

Reheating

To bring back that crispy exterior after storage or freezing, reheat the tofu in a hot oven or air fryer rather than the microwave. This method revives the crunch beautifully without drying out the inside, giving you that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience once again.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of non-dairy milk?

Absolutely! While non-dairy milk is recommended for a vegan-friendly version, regular milk works just fine if you’re not avoiding dairy. The key is to use an unsweetened, unflavored option to keep the flavors balanced.

What type of tofu is best for this Breaded Crispy Tofu Recipe?

Super firm tofu is definitely the best choice because it holds its shape well while baking and crisps up perfectly. Softer tofu varieties tend to fall apart during the breading and cooking process.

Can I fry the tofu instead of baking it?

Yes, pan-frying or deep-frying the breaded tofu will give you an even crispier texture in less time. Just be sure to keep the oil hot and cook evenly on each side to avoid soggy spots.

How can I add more flavor to the breadcrumb coating?

Feel free to experiment by adding spices like cayenne pepper for heat, nutritional yeast for depth, or lemon zest for a bright twist. The breadcrumb mixture is a great canvas for bold flavors!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as is, since traditional panko breadcrumbs contain gluten. To make it gluten-free, swap the panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal crumbs, and you’ll keep that irresistible crunch intact.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Breaded Crispy Tofu Recipe—it’s one of those dishes that brings so much joy to the table with its satisfying texture and bold flavors. Whether you’re new to tofu or a seasoned fan, this recipe is sure to delight and inspire your plant-based cooking adventures. Go ahead and give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!