I’ll be honest — tofu wasn’t love at first bite for me. I used to think it was bland and boring until I discovered what happens when you toss it in smoky barbecue sauce and let the air fryer work its magic. The result? Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in sticky, caramelized goodness that’s honestly addictive. It’s the kind of plant-based comfort food that makes you forget it’s healthy.
I make this BBQ tofu all the time when I’m craving something quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for lunch bowls, sandwiches, wraps, or even as a high-protein snack straight from the basket. And the best part? It’s ready in less than 20 minutes, with barely any cleanup. Once you try it, you’ll see why this has become a weekly favorite in my kitchen.
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Tofu: You’ll want to use extra-firm tofu for this recipe. It holds its shape beautifully in the air fryer and gives you that crave-worthy crispiness on the outside while staying soft inside. Be sure to press it well — the less water, the better the texture.
BBQ Sauce: Go for your favorite barbecue sauce — smoky, sweet, or spicy, whichever fits your taste. I personally love a smoky-sweet one because it caramelizes beautifully when the tofu cooks, creating that irresistible sticky coating.
Olive Oil: Just a small drizzle helps the tofu crisp up even more in the air fryer. It’s optional, but it makes a noticeable difference in texture.
Garlic Powder: Adds that subtle savory kick that makes every bite pop. It also complements the smoky BBQ flavor perfectly.
Smoked Paprika: A little sprinkle gives the tofu a deeper, more complex flavor. It’s one of those spices that makes plant-based dishes taste truly satisfying.
Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential — these seasonings bring out all the natural flavors of the tofu and the sauce.
Ingredients List
- 14 oz (400 g) extra-firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup barbecue sauce (your favorite kind)
How to Make Air Fryer BBQ Tofu
Step 1: Press and Prep the Tofu
Start by draining your tofu and wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Place a heavy pan or plate on top and let it press for about 15–20 minutes. This helps remove excess moisture, which is key to achieving that crispy texture.
Step 2: Cut and Season
Once pressed, cut the tofu into even cubes — about 1-inch pieces work best. Transfer them to a bowl and gently toss with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until every piece is coated evenly.
Step 3: Air Fry the Tofu
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer in the basket, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they’re golden and crisp on the edges.
Step 4: Add the BBQ Sauce
When the tofu is crisp, transfer it to a bowl and pour the barbecue sauce over the top. Toss gently to coat every piece. Then return the tofu to the air fryer and cook for another 2–3 minutes. This final step helps the sauce caramelize and stick beautifully.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once done, serve your BBQ tofu hot! I love adding it to rice bowls, tacos, wraps, or alongside roasted veggies. It’s also amazing as a protein-packed snack.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Press your tofu well: This step makes all the difference — the drier it is, the crispier it’ll get.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Air needs to circulate around the tofu for even crisping. Work in batches if needed.
- Flip or shake halfway through: It ensures all sides get evenly golden.
- Use parchment liners carefully: If you do, make sure they’re perforated so the air can still flow properly.
- Choose a flavorful BBQ sauce: A smoky or spicy one really elevates the dish.
- Double the batch: This tofu reheats beautifully, so make extra for meal prep!
FAQs
Can I use firm tofu instead of extra-firm?
Yes, but you’ll need to press it longer. Extra-firm tofu just holds up better in the air fryer without breaking apart.
Do I need to marinate the tofu first?
Not for this recipe! The BBQ sauce adds enough flavor after cooking. But if you have time, a short 15-minute marinade can deepen the taste.
Can I make this without oil?
Absolutely. The tofu will still get crispy, though a touch of oil does enhance the crunch.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep any leftover BBQ tofu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness.
Can I use homemade BBQ sauce?
Yes — homemade sauces work beautifully! Just make sure it’s thick enough to coat the tofu well.