BBQ Tofu is extra firm tofu tossed in smoky barbecue sauce and pan-seared to perfection. It’s bold, easy to make, and on the table in 20 minutes or less.
Serve with Homemade Barbecue Sauce, baked potatoes, and green beans for an easy, down-home-style plant-based dinner.
Easy BBQ Tofu Recipe
There’s something special, nostalgic even, that has me craving BBQ flavors throughout the warmer months. And if the weather allows us to eat outside, even better.
I like this recipe because it’s quick, flavorful, and satisfying. The process of pan-frying the tofu until it becomes golden and crispy creates a wonderful texture that contrasts perfectly with the rich and tangy BBQ sauce.
This recipe is also pretty versatile – I frequently serve barbecue tofu on its own as a main dish, but it would also be a tasty addition to a salad or a Southern-style rice bowl with black beans and sweet corn.
Ingredients for BBQ Tofu
You will need the following:
- Extra-Firm Tofu – For the best texture, use extra- or super-firm tofu. Medium firm or silken tofu is much too soft for this recipe and not recommended..
- Olive Oil – Helps the tofu get a golden, lightly crispy exterior.
- Salt, Garlic Powder, Black Pepper – Simple seasonings to boost flavor without overpowering the sauce.
- Barbecue Sauce – Use your favorite BBQ sauce for sweet, smoky, or spicy tofu.
How to Press Tofu
Removing excess water helps the tofu crisp up and hold its shape. Take the tofu out of the package and drain it, then place the block in a tofu press. Let it sit under gentle pressure for 15–20 minutes. Once pressed, it’s ready to cut and cook.
How to Grill Tofu in a Pan
STEP ONE: Prep the Tofu. Press tofu, then slice into 1-inch pieces and pat dry. Transfer to a medium-sized bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Using your hands, gently turn the tofu over in the bowl to coat it with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper then gently toss again to distribute the seasonings.
STEP TWO: Pan Fry the Tofu. Set a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu to the hot pan and cook for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally to lightly brown on all sides.
STEP THREE: Add Sauce and Serve. Add the barbecue sauce and continue cooking for 3 minutes, turning to coat the tofu thoroughly, then serve hot.
Make It Vegan 🌱
This recipe is naturally vegan—just be sure to choose a barbecue sauce made without honey.
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the best texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat.
More Tofu Recipes You’ll Love!
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BBQ Tofu Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 14-ounce package extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
Instructions
- Press tofu then slice into 1-inch pieces and pat dry. Transfer to a medium-sized bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Using your hands, gently turn the tofu over in the bowl to coat it with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper then gently toss again to distribute the seasonings.
- Set a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu to the hot pan and cook for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally to lightly brown on all sides.
- Add the barbecue sauce and continue cooking for 3 minutes, turning to thoroughly coat the tofu, then serve hot.
Nutrition
This post was updated on June 11, 2025.
Jacqui
I made this recipe, and used it on our new grill! So good! Totally will be a summer favorite, thank you.
nancy
i really enjoyed your homemade bbq sauce on these tofu bites! i made this added to my salad!
Jenn Freedman
Yay for vegan summer bbq recipes !