Crispy Tofu Chicken Parm Bakes (Printable)

Golden Asiago-crusted tofu with marinara and melted mozzarella, baked until bubbly. A vegetarian take on an Italian-American favorite.

# What You Need:

→ Tofu

01 - 2 blocks extra-firm tofu (14 oz each), pressed and sliced into ½-inch slabs

→ Breading

02 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
03 - ¾ cup grated Asiago cheese
04 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
05 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
06 - ½ teaspoon salt
07 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper

→ Coating

08 - ½ cup all-purpose flour
09 - 2 large eggs, beaten

→ Topping

10 - 2 cups marinara sauce
11 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
12 - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, optional
13 - Fresh basil leaves for garnish

→ For Serving

14 - Cooked spaghetti or crusty bread, optional

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
02 - Press tofu blocks for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Slice each block into 4 slabs of equal thickness.
03 - Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with Asiago, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
04 - Coat each tofu slice in flour, dip into beaten egg, then press firmly into the breadcrumb-Asiago mixture, ensuring all sides are thoroughly covered.
05 - Place coated tofu on prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly drizzle or spray with olive oil.
06 - Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp on all sides.
07 - Remove from oven. Spoon marinara sauce generously over each tofu piece. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan if using.
08 - Return to oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
09 - Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot. Optionally serve over spaghetti or with crusty bread.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Vegetarian Twist: A hearty and satisfying plant-based alternative to traditional chicken parmesan.
  • Crispy Texture: The combination of panko and Asiago cheese creates a superior crunch without deep-frying.
  • High Protein: Uses two full blocks of extra-firm tofu for a filling, protein-packed main dish.
  • Quick Prep: Simple breading and baking process makes it accessible for weeknight dinners.
02 -
  • Pressing Time: If you have time, press the tofu for 30 minutes to an hour for an even firmer bite.
  • Cheese Swaps: Asiago provides a sharp tang, but you can easily substitute it with Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for different flavor profiles.
  • Avoid Sogginess: Spoon the sauce only on the center of the tofu to keep the edges of the breading crispy.
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