Crunchy, Crispy Tofu Pasta Bake

As a working parent, finding time to prepare wholesome, protein-rich meals can feel like an impossible task, especially when you factor in various dietary restrictions. That’s why this crispy tofu pasta bake is such a game changer. It’s a classic pasta bake with a tofu twist that’s simple to make and satisfying for the whole family.

I found the perfect TRICK to transform ordinary extra-firm tofu into crispy, golden pieces that even my picky eaters can’t resist. The combination of pasta, marinara, and tofu creates a hearty dish packed with familiar Italian flavors and plenty of protein. The golden crust on top is always a hit—my kids get so excited when they see it ready.

What makes this recipe truly special is how meal-prep friendly it is. While the kids are occupied with homework or playing nearby, I can press and cube the tofu, then let it crisp up on the stovetop while I prepare the pasta and sauce. The hands-off cooking time gives me a chance to join them or tidy up the kitchen.

This dish is incredibly versatile. Sometimes I’ll toss in vegetables that need using up—spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers—and they always work beautifully. Occassionally, I'll vary the seasonings, adding in a pinch of Cajun spice or some herbes de provences, depending on my mood. The tofu soaks up all the flavors, making every bite anything but bland or boring. Plus, the leftovers reheat perfectly for breakfast or lunch boxes the next day.

Whether you’re looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your routine or simply need a reliable dinner option that everyone will enjoy, this recipe is perfect. It’s become such a staple in my household that my family now expects a “tofu night” every now and then.

• Penne pasta - serves as the hearty base for the dish.
• Extra-firm tofu - offers a protein-rich component that absorbs flavors well.
• Cherry tomatoes, halved - add a burst of freshness and sweetness.
• Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped - contribute a concentrated, tangy flavor that deepens the taste of the pasta.
• Pine nuts, toasted - provide a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor.
• Garlic cloves, minced - infuse the dish with aromatic flavor.
• Shallot, finely diced - adds a mild onion flavor.
• Dried oregano - brings a herby note to the dish.
• Extra virgin olive oil - serves as a rich, flavorful base for the dressing.
• Balsamic vinegar - introduces a tangy acidity.
• Nutritional yeast - adds a cheesy flavor while providing nutritional benefits.
• Cornstarch - acts as a thickening agent, helping to create a creamy texture in the sauce.

See the recipe card for exact quantities.

Prepare the Tofu

Begin by pressing the extra firm tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the block of tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place a heavy object on top, such as a cast-iron skillet or a few cans, for about 30 minutes. After pressing, cut the tofu into ½-inch cubes. In a mixing bowl, toss the cubed tofu with cornstarch until evenly coated, which will help create a crispy texture when cooked.

Cook the Pasta

While the tofu is pressing, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the cooked pasta and set it aside.

Sauté the Tofu

In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cubed tofu in a single layer. Sauté the tofu for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until it is golden brown and crispy on all sides. Once crispy, remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Add the finely diced shallot and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Add Tomatoes

Next, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cherry tomatoes are blistered and softened. This will enhance their flavor and create a nice sauce.

Deglaze the Pan

Once the tomatoes are blistered, pour in the balsamic vinegar to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds depth of flavor to the dish.

Combine Ingredients

Add the dried oregano, cooked penne pasta, crispy tofu, and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined. The pasta water will help create a light sauce that coats the pasta and tofu.

Add Nutritional Yeast

Stir in the nutritional yeast, which will add a cheesy flavor to the dish. Mix well to ensure the nutritional yeast is evenly distributed throughout the pasta.

Finish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the toasted pine nuts for added crunch. Season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve the crispy tofu pasta bake immediately while it’s warm, and enjoy your hearty meal!

Pairing a crispy tofu pasta bake with complementary sides can enhance your meal in both flavor and variety. A goat cheese salad brings a bright, tangy element, while the kale salad adds a hearty, fresh touch, making them excellent choices for lighter, green accompaniments.

For warm vegetable dishes, roasted carrots with hazelnuts provide an earthy, nutty contrast, and Jewish carrot tzimmes adds sweetness and a comforting texture. To add some variety to the table, the antipasto charcuterie combines savory bites like pickled vegetables and olives, while garlic bread made with rosemary sourdough complements the pasta with its aromatic flavors.

If you'd like to include another baked dish, consider the green cauliflower bake or the leek and mushroom pasta bake for a rich addition. For a more substantial option, the quinoa chicken casserole brings wholesome ingredients to round out the meal.

These thoughtfully paired sides and dishes complement the pasta bake beautifully, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.