Crispy baked tofu nuggets have become a staple in my kitchen because they offer a satisfying crunch without the mess of frying. I appreciate how straightforward they are to prepare, making them a reliable option for busy weeknights. The golden crust contrasts nicely with the tender, slightly chewy interior, which always feels hearty and comforting.

I usually serve these nuggets with a simple dipping sauce, like a tangy barbecue or a creamy vegan ranch, turning them into a familiar snack or a main dish for casual dinners. The aroma while baking is subtle but inviting, with hints of garlic and smoked paprika that fill the kitchen.

What makes this recipe special is the balance of texture and flavor achieved through a light coating and baking technique, which keeps the nuggets crispy without excess oil. It’s a versatile recipe that works well for kids and adults alike, and it holds up well as leftovers for quick lunches.

Quick Facts

Why You’ll Love It

This recipe transforms plain tofu into crispy, flavorful nuggets that are easy to make and satisfyingly crunchy. Baking instead of frying keeps the process cleaner and lighter, while still delivering great texture and taste.

• Reliable weeknight option
• Minimal ingredients
• Rich, crowd-pleasing flavor
• Scales well for guests

Ingredients

These ingredients come together to create a crispy coating and flavorful tofu base. You’ll need firm tofu, a few pantry staples for the seasoning, and a simple batter to help the coating stick.

• 14 oz (400 g) firm or extra-firm tofu
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Cooking spray or a little oil for greasing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to press, marinate, coat, and bake the tofu nuggets to crispy perfection. Each stage builds flavor and texture for a satisfying result.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil.
2. Drain the tofu and press it for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into bite-sized nugget shapes.
3. In a shallow bowl, mix soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and black pepper. Toss the tofu pieces gently in this marinade and let sit for 5 minutes.
4. Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with plant-based milk, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
5. Dip each tofu piece first in flour, then in the milk, and finally coat it with panko breadcrumbs. Place coated nuggets on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Spray the nuggets lightly with cooking spray to help them crisp up in the oven.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Chef Tips

These tips will help you get the crispiest nuggets and avoid common pitfalls when working with tofu.

• Press tofu well to remove moisture for better crisping.
• Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
• Don’t skip the light spray of oil before baking.
• Flip nuggets halfway to ensure even browning.
• Serve immediately for best texture.

Substitutions

If you need to swap ingredients, here are some easy alternatives that won’t compromise the texture or flavor too much.

• Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for gluten-free options.
• Replace all-purpose flour with chickpea flour for a gluten-free batter.
• Use regular breadcrumbs if panko is unavailable, though texture will be less crispy.
• Any unsweetened plant milk works in place of soy or almond milk.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover tofu nuggets properly to maintain their texture and flavor. Reheating tips will help you enjoy them again without losing crispiness.

• Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.

Perfect Pairings

These crispy tofu nuggets pair well with a variety of sauces and sides, making them adaptable for different meals and occasions.

• Spicy sriracha mayo or vegan ranch dip
• Fresh green salad or coleslaw
• Sweet potato fries or roasted vegetables
• Casual sandwiches or wraps

FAQs

Here are answers to common questions about making and enjoying crispy baked tofu nuggets.

Nutritional Note

These tofu nuggets provide a moderate amount of protein and are lower in fat than fried versions, making them a balanced choice for a plant-based snack or meal component.