Crispy Baked Tofu with Sesame Seeds and Green Onions Recipe

I absolutely love sharing this Crispy Baked Tofu with Sesame Seeds and Green Onions Recipe because it’s one of those dishes that brings together incredible texture and flavor in such a simple way. The tofu turns perfectly crispy on the outside, while staying tender on the inside, all seasoned with just the right balance of garlic, soy sauce, and the nutty crunch of sesame seeds. Adding the freshness of thinly sliced green onions really lifts the dish, making it satisfying whether you’re serving it as a snack, a main, or a tasty addition to a meal.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Baked Tofu with Sesame Seeds and Green Onions Recipe

From the moment I bite into this tofu, I’m hit with a delightful medley of flavors—the savory umami from the soy sauce, the subtle garlic warmth, and the irresistible crunch from the sesame seeds. What really excites me is how the baking process makes the tofu impeccably crispy without any deep frying, which keeps it both lighter and healthier. It’s a texture adventure that tofu lovers (and skeptics) can both appreciate.

What makes this recipe a go-to in my kitchen is how straightforward it is. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep, you can pull off a mind-blowing dish in under an hour. I often make it for quick weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or whenever I want to impress friends with something vegan but packed with flavor. It stands out because it’s both fuss-free and a real crowd-pleaser, giving tofu the spotlight it deserves.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows five cooking ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface. On the top left is a dark green bottle of organic extra virgin olive oil with a yellow and red label. Next to it in the center top is a small clear jar with a black lid containing light beige garlic powder. On the top right, there is a bunch of green onions with bright green stalks and white bases. At the bottom left, a light purple and white bag of cornstarch is placed flat with black and red text on the label. On the bottom right is a white package of firm tofu with a red label. Each ingredient is clearly labeled with black text on white rectangles below them. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

It’s amazing how much you can do with simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a vital role in the final taste and texture of this dish. Every component is there to elevate the tofu into something spectacular.

Tofu (14 oz to 1 lb): I recommend firm or extra-firm tofu for the best crispy texture after baking.
Olive oil (1 tbsp): Just enough to help the tofu crisp up beautifully and bring subtle richness.
Cornstarch (1 tbsp): This is the secret to that addictive crust that forms on each tofu cube.
Garlic powder (1 tsp): Adds a gentle punch of flavor without overpowering the tofu.
Soy sauce (2 tbsp): Imparts deep umami and salty notes, soaking into the tofu cubes for flavor.
Sesame seeds: For an irresistible nutty crunch as a final garnish.
Sliced green onions: Brings freshness and a pop of color to brighten the dish.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Drain your block of tofu and slice it into two slabs of equal thickness. Place the slabs between two sheets of paper towels, then lay a cutting board on top. To press out excess water, add some weight such as pots or pans on the cutting board and let it sit for about 20 minutes. This step is essential for getting your tofu crispy.

Step 3: After pressing, cut the tofu into evenly sized cubes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently so every piece gets coated.

Step 4: Sprinkle the cornstarch and garlic powder over the tofu cubes, tossing again so the seasoning evenly covers the tofu.

Step 5: Finally, add the soy sauce and toss one last time until the cubes are nicely glazed and ready for baking.

Step 6: Spread the tofu cubes evenly on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake them for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping each piece halfway through so they crisp up evenly on all sides.

Step 7: Once golden and crispy, remove the tofu from the oven and immediately garnish with sesame seeds and a generous handful of thinly sliced green onions for that fresh, vibrant finish.

Servings and Timing

This Crispy Baked Tofu with Sesame Seeds and Green Onions Recipe makes about 4 servings, perfect for a family meal or for meal prepping lunches. Prep time is roughly 25 minutes, including pressing the tofu, and the cook time is about 30 minutes, bringing the total time to around 55 minutes. No additional resting is required, so you can serve it right away while it’s wonderfully crispy and warm.

How to Serve This Crispy Baked Tofu with Sesame Seeds and Green Onions Recipe

The image shows several small, golden-brown roasted potato cubes placed on a light beige parchment paper. Each cube has a crispy, slightly textured outside with visible browned edges and a soft, tender interior. The cubes have an even color with spots of caramelized crispiness on top and sides, creating a contrast between the crunchy exterior and the softer inside. The background is softly blurred, focusing on the center potato cube, making it look warm and inviting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

I love serving this dish with a variety of sides depending on the mood. It’s fantastic over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up the flavors. For a veggie boost, steamed broccoli or sautéed bok choy make excellent partners. You can even toss the tofu into a fresh salad or grain bowl for an easy, protein-packed meal.

For presentation, I sprinkle extra sesame seeds and green onions just before serving to keep the textures vibrant. A drizzle of spicy mayo or a squeeze of fresh lime juice can add an exciting twist. Plating in a rustic bowl or on a sleek platter gives it that homemade-but-elevated vibe that impresses guests every time.

As for drinks, I find this tofu pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light, citrusy beer. For non-alcoholic options, ginger tea or sparkling water with a splash of yuzu works wonderfully. It’s a versatile recipe that shines at weeknight dinners, casual parties, or even holiday spreads when you want something both delicious and healthy served warm.

Variations

I enjoy customizing this Crispy Baked Tofu with Sesame Seeds and Green Onions Recipe based on what’s in my pantry or to match different cravings. If you want to mix it up, swapping soy sauce for tamari keeps it gluten-free without losing any umami. For those who prefer a bolder flavor, adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chili flakes before baking amps up the spice and complexity.

To switch up the texture, sometimes I coat the tofu cubes with panko breadcrumbs instead of cornstarch for an extra crunchy crust. If you want to try a stovetop method, pan-frying the seasoned tofu cubes in a little oil until golden can be a quicker alternative, though baking brings even crispier results without extra oil.

Those following a vegan lifestyle will appreciate that this recipe is naturally plant-based, but you can also tailor the garnishes by adding chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for a different flavor profile. The flexibility here means you can make it your own and keep coming back for more.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Leftover crispy baked tofu stores really well in an airtight container in the refrigerator. I use glass or BPA-free plastic containers with tight lids. It keeps nicely for up to 4 days, which makes it great for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, lay the tofu cubes on a baking sheet so they don’t stick together and flash freeze for a couple of hours. Then transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen baked tofu can last up to 2 months and reheats well while maintaining most of its crispiness.

Reheating

To retain the best texture when reheating, I recommend an oven or toaster oven set around 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 to 15 minutes. This helps bring back the crispiness much better than microwaving, which usually makes tofu soggy. If you’re short on time, a quick sauté in a hot nonstick pan works wonders too.

FAQs

Can I use soft or silken tofu instead of firm?

Soft or silken tofu has a high moisture content and a delicate texture, so it will not crisp up well and could fall apart during baking. For crispy baked tofu, always use firm or extra-firm tofu to get the best results.

Do I need to press the tofu before baking?

Yes, pressing the tofu is crucial because it removes excess moisture, allowing the tofu to absorb marinades better and become crispy in the oven. Without pressing, the tofu tends to steam rather than bake, resulting in a soft and less appetizing texture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari to maintain the same savory flavor without gluten. All other ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely. The tofu holds up well in the fridge for several days, making it an ideal protein to prepare ahead. You can add it to salads, bowls, or wraps throughout the week for quick, satisfying meals.

What can I serve alongside this Crispy Baked Tofu with Sesame Seeds and Green Onions Recipe?

I love pairing this tofu with steamed greens, rice or noodles, and pickled vegetables to add acidity. It also pairs well with dipping sauces like spicy mayo, hoisin, or extra soy sauce to enhance the experience.

Conclusion

I genuinely hope you give this Crispy Baked Tofu with Sesame Seeds and Green Onions Recipe a try because it’s a delicious, easy way to elevate tofu beyond ordinary. It’s a dish that brings comfort, crunch, and vibrant flavor to your plate, making tofu feel like the star. I promise once you bake it up, you’ll be excited to make it again and share it with everyone you know.