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Breaded tofu cutlets baked until golden and crispy on a sheet pan.

Breaded Tofu Cutlets (Baked or Air Fryer)

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5 from 2 reviews

When you want something easy and filling for weeknight dinners, this breaded tofu cutlet recipe is the move. Firm tofu is coated in a seasoned, golden panko crust that turns crisp on the outside while staying sturdy and tender inside. Bake it for the most even browning, or air fry when you want things fast, then serve with mashed potatoes or rice plus roasted vegetables—and dinner’s done.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings (4 cutlets)

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces super-firm or firm tofu
  • ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons white rice flour
  • ½ cup JUST Egg
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

Prep the tofu

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
  2. Slice the tofu lengthwise into two thin slabs, then cut each slab in half crosswise to make four cutlets.
  3. Lightly mist a rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray, or line it with parchment or a silicone mat.

Set up the breading station

  1. Arrange three wide prep bowls: one with the rice flour, one with the JUST Egg, and one with the panko, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Bread the tofu

  1. Working one piece at a time, coat each cutlet in the rice flour, tapping off the excess.
  2. Dip into the JUST Egg, then press into the seasoned panko mixture until evenly coated, including the edges.
  3. Place the breaded tofu on the prepared baking sheet and mist the tops generously with cooking spray.

Bake

  1. Bake on the upper rack for 15 minutes, until the coating looks set and lightly golden.
  2. Flip the cutlets, spray the second side generously, and return to the oven for 10 minutes, or until golden and crisp all over.
  3. Let rest on the baking sheet for 2 minutes to allow the coating to set, then serve.

Notes

  • Air Fryer Option: Bread the tofu as directed above. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Arrange the cutlets in a single layer with space between them, spray generously, and cook for 7 minutes, or until golden on the top. Flip, spray again, and cook for 3 minutes more, or until crisp and golden all over.
  • Storage: Store leftover breaded tofu cutlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in a 400°F oven for 10–15 minutes, or in the air fryer at 350°F for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until hot and crisp.
  • Author: erin wysocarski
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Baked, Breaded
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Dairy-Free, Vegan, Vegetarian