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This Easy Sheet Pan Spicy Tofu recipe is a standout for its vibrant flavors and wholesome nutrition, making it perfect for everyday meals.
The dish features extra firm tofu, a plant-based protein powerhouse that supports muscle repair and keeps you full longer.
Paired with fiber-rich vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and potatoes, it promotes healthy digestion and sustained energy.
The recipe is also rich in good fats from extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) while keeping saturated fat low, aligning with heart-healthy eating principles.
Beyond its nutritional perks, the recipe is incredibly approachable—quick to prep, hands-off during baking, and delivers satisfying crispy tofu with tender roasted veggies.
Its sheet pan method simplifies cleanup and is ideal for meal prepping, making it a practical choice for busy weeknights or batch cooking.
Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking for a nourishing and flavorful meal, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of health, taste, and convenience.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Sheet Pan Baking Tray
The foundation for roasting tofu and veggies evenly. Its large flat surface allows air circulation for crispy edges, essential for this recipe. Beyond this dish, a sturdy sheet pan is a versatile tool for roasting, baking cookies, and meal prep.
Mixing Bowls (Set of 2-3)
Ideal for tossing veggies and tofu with spices and oil. Mixing bowls help ensure even seasoning and make marinating effortless. A kitchen staple, they’re perfect for salad prep, whisking, and ingredient organization.
Sharp Chef’s Knife
Used for precise chopping of potatoes, carrots, and tofu cubes. A sharp knife speeds up prep and improves safety by reducing slipping. It’s an indispensable tool for all chopping, dicing, and slicing tasks.
Paper Towels
Crucial for pressing and drying tofu to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve the coveted crispy texture when baked. Paper towels are also useful for general kitchen cleanup and ingredient drying.
Oven Mitts
Protect your hands when handling the hot sheet pan during baking and broiling. A reliable pair of oven mitts enhances safety and confidence in the kitchen.
Spicy Baked Tofu Cubes
Equipment
- 1 Sheet Pan Baking Tray
- 2 3 Mixing Bowls
- 1 Sharp chef’s knife
- Paper Towels (as needed)
- Oven Mitts
Ingredients
- 1 block extra-firm tofu
- 2 teaspoons arrowroot powder
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 4 teaspoons chili flakes divided
- 2 medium carrots peeled and chopped
- 1 medium sweet potato peeled and chopped
- 1 medium yellow potato peeled and chopped
- 1½ cups broccoli florets
- ¾ cup cooked pinto beans drained and rinsed
- ½ cup barbecue sauce optional
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Tofu: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Remove the tofu from its packaging and carefully wrap it in several layers of paper towels. Set it aside on a plate and gently press to extract as much liquid as possible. For even better results, replace the towels and press again after 10 minutes.
- Chop the Vegetables: While the tofu drains, peel and cut the carrots, sweet potato, and yellow potato into bite-sized chunks. Separate the broccoli into small florets, ensuring all pieces are uniform for even roasting.
- Season the Vegetables and Beans: In a large bowl, combine the chopped vegetables with 2 teaspoons coriander, 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, and 2 teaspoons chili flakes. Add the rinsed pinto beans and drizzle 2 teaspoons of extra virgin olive oil over the mixture. Toss everything thoroughly so the spices and oil coat each piece evenly.
- Arrange Vegetables on the Sheet Pan: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Spread the seasoned vegetables and beans in a single layer across the tray to ensure even roasting.
- Prepare the Tofu: Cut the drained tofu block in half and wrap again with paper towels, pressing gently to absorb any remaining moisture. Then cut each half into bite-sized cubes.
- Coat the Tofu with Spices: In a medium bowl, sprinkle the tofu cubes with arrowroot powder, remaining 2 teaspoons coriander, 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, and 2 teaspoons chili flakes. Drizzle 2 teaspoons of extra virgin olive oil over the tofu and gently toss to distribute the spices and oil thoroughly.
- Add Tofu to the Baking Tray: Place the seasoned tofu cubes alongside the vegetables on the foil-lined baking sheet, ensuring everything is spread out evenly without overcrowding.
- Bake and Broil: Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and roast for 25 minutes at 425°F. After baking, switch the oven to broil mode at approximately 525°F. Broil for 5 to 10 minutes, positioning the tray about 4 inches from the broiler. Keep a close eye to prevent burning and remove when the tofu is golden and crispy and the vegetables have a nice roasted color.
- Final Touches and Serving: Once out of the oven, season the tofu and vegetables with salt and freshly ground pepper. Optionally, drizzle ½ cup of barbecue sauce over the hot ingredients and gently toss to coat evenly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Pressing Tofu: Removing as much moisture as possible from tofu is essential for achieving a crispy texture. For best results, press it for at least 15 minutes, replacing paper towels halfway through.
- Spice Variations: Feel free to adjust the chili flakes amount to your preferred spice level or swap smoked paprika with regular paprika for a milder flavor.
- Make it Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free if your barbecue sauce is labeled gluten-free.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Broiling Tip: Since oven broil temperatures vary, start checking at 5 minutes to avoid burning and adjust time accordingly.
Chef’s Secrets for Crispy Tofu Success
Achieving perfectly crispy tofu starts with thoroughly pressing out excess moisture.
The more water you remove, the better the tofu will absorb spices and crisp up during baking.
Using arrowroot powder in the coating mix is a clever trick—it adds an extra layer of crunchiness without overpowering the spices.
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; giving the tofu and veggies enough space ensures they roast evenly and develop beautiful caramelized edges.
Finally, broiling at the end intensifies the crisp texture and enhances the flavors but keep a close watch to avoid burning.
For an extra flavor boost, consider marinating the tofu briefly in the spice mix and oil before coating it with arrowroot powder.
This step deepens the seasoning and makes the dish even more irresistible.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Meal
This sheet pan spicy tofu pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile centerpiece.
Serve it alongside fluffy quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice to keep the meal wholesome and filling.
For a fresh contrast, add a simple cucumber salad or a crunchy slaw with a tangy vinaigrette.
If you want to turn this into a more substantial meal, a side of steamed greens like kale or sautéed spinach complements the smoky and spicy notes well.
Drizzling extra barbecue sauce or a cooling dollop of dairy-free yogurt or sour cream can also balance the heat while adding creaminess.
This dish is fantastic for casual dinners or meal prep lunches thanks to its ease and satisfying flavors.
Storage Tips for Maintaining Freshness
To store leftover tofu and veggies, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to four days to enjoy it safely and deliciously later.
Reheating is best done in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F to help restore the crisp texture, as microwaving can make tofu and roasted veggies soggy.
If you plan to freeze the leftovers, portion them out into freezer-safe containers or bags.
When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
Always store the barbecue sauce separately if used, adding it fresh at serving time to prevent sogginess and maintain vibrant flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
1. Can I use firm tofu instead of extra-firm?
Yes, but extra-firm tofu holds its shape better and crisps up more effectively. Firm tofu has more moisture, so pressing it well is even more crucial.
2. Is arrowroot powder necessary? Can I use cornstarch?
Arrowroot powder helps create a light, crisp coating and is a great gluten-free option. Cornstarch can be used as a substitute but may produce a slightly different texture.
3. Can I make this recipe oil-free?
While the oil helps achieve crispiness and flavor, you can reduce it or use a light cooking spray. Baking times might increase slightly, and the tofu will be less crispy.
4. How spicy is this dish?
The recipe includes chili flakes for heat, but you can easily adjust the amount up or down depending on your spice preference.
5. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Chop and season the vegetables and tofu ahead, then refrigerate separately. Assemble and bake just before mealtime for maximum freshness and texture.
This recipe is inspired by savoryspin and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.