Sometimes I’m just in the mood for something BBQ, does this happen to you? This Sheet Pan BBQ Tofu always satisfies that craving. It’s made with seasoned tofu pieces with crispy outsides and chewy centers, slathered in BBQ sauce. This recipe is smoky, a little salty, sweet, and delicious! Let me show you how to make it!
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Tofu tips:
A few notes about tofu. I like using extra firm tofu in this recipe. Extra firm tofu has a low water content and holds its shape well. It’s ideal for baking which is what we are doing today.
Also, if you have the time, I recommend freezing and then defrosting the tofu before making it. It adds a wonderful texture to the tofu. You can definitely omit this step though, it will still be delicious.
Making the Sheet Pan BBQ Tofu:
First, press your tofu and then tear it into pieces. In a small bowl, mix together your spices and tamari. Tamari is a gluten free soy sauce. I prefer it to regular soy sauce as the flavor is a little lighter and sweeter. The spices we are using are what you would find in your typical BBQ rub. The star ingredient is the smoked paprika. A little goes a long way and it imparts such a great smokey flavor, like one you would find in your typical BBQ fare. I LOVE smoked paprika.
After mixing, you want your seasoning blend to be pourable. Sometimes when I make it, it’s too thick. If this happens just add a teaspoon of water to thin it out.
Next, pour the seasoning over the tofu and massage into all the pieces, trying to coat them evenly.
After that, spread your tofu out evenly across the baking sheet. I like to line my baking sheets with a silicone baking mat. It helps to crisp up the outside of your tofu.
Bake the tofu until you see the edges start the brown, stirring once or twice during cooking. Lastly, add the tofu to a bowl and pour your favorite BBQ sauce over top. Mix it up until all of the pieces are thoroughly coated. Everything will get sticky and delicious.
“Mom” tip:
I like to make a few batches of this tofu and keep it in the fridge for easy lunch additions during the week. I add it to salads, quinoa/rice bowls, and wraps. You can also make this ahead of time and then reheat it for a quick weeknight dinner. It pairs well with my Mango Black Bean Arugula Salad or my Simple Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes!
If your like me, I hope this satisfies all of your BBQ cravings! And if you make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram! Let me know what you serve with this Sheet Pan BBQ Tofu, I get such inspiration from you all!
Sheet Pan BBQ Tofu
Ingredients
- 1 14 oz package extra firm tofu
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cracked black pepper
- 1 1/2 T reduced sodium tamari or soy sauce
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Remove tofu from package and drain excess water. Place tofu between a layer of kitchen towels or paper towels and place on a plate. Place a heavy object, like a cast iron skillet, on top of the tofu. Press for 30 minutes, replacing towels if needed.
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
- Tear tofu into pieces and place in the center of a baking sheet lined with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix together spices.
- Add tamari or soy sauce to the spice mixture. It should form a soupy, pourable paste. If it's too thick, add a teaspoon of water.
- Pour spice mixture over tofu and mix gently by hand, making sure all of the pieces are covered. Spread tofu evenly on baking sheet.
- Place baking sheet on the middle or bottom rack of oven. Bake 35-40 minutes, mixing tofu once or twice, to ensure even cooking. Bake until the outside of the tofu starts to crisp.
- Remove tofu from oven and place in a medium size mixing bowl. Let cool a minute or two and then add the BBQ sauce. Mix well until all the tofu pieces are coated and serve!
