Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to make with minimal prep.
Uses simple pantry staples and a two-ingredient sauce.
Perfect balance of crispy, spicy, and creamy textures.
Air fryer method ensures a golden, crunchy tofu every time.
Versatile—serve on a salad, in a wrap, or as a snack.

Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Crispy Tofu:

16 ounce package of tofu (firm or extra firm)
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon avocado oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Buffalo Sauce:

3 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s Red Hot)

For Serving:

Salad with Caesar, ranch, or bleu cheese dressing (works especially well with an avocado kale Caesar salad)

Directions

Drain the tofu and press gently with a towel to remove excess moisture.
Tear tofu into bite-sized chunks. Toss with cornstarch, soy sauce, oil, paprika, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
Air fry at 400°F for 8 minutes. Shake or toss, then cook another 5–6 minutes until golden and crispy. (For oven baking, cook at 400°F for 20 minutes, tossing halfway through.)
Melt butter and whisk with hot sauce to create buffalo sauce.
Toss crispy tofu in buffalo sauce until well coated.
Serve over salad with Caesar dressing or enjoy in a wrap or bowl.

Servings and timing

Yield: 2–4 servings (perfect for two adults and two kids)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 17 minutes

Variations

Make it vegan by using plant-based butter.
Add extra spices such as smoked paprika or chili powder for more depth.
Swap buffalo sauce for teriyaki or barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile.
Use ranch or bleu cheese dressing if you want a creamier contrast to the spice.
Add toppings like avocado, crispy chickpeas, or croutons to the salad for extra crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover buffalo tofu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 3–4 minutes to restore crispiness, or warm in the oven at 350°F for about 8 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the tofu coating.

FAQs

How do I make the tofu extra crispy?

Pressing out excess water, coating with cornstarch, and cooking at high heat in the air fryer ensures maximum crispiness.

Can I bake this instead of air frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F for 20 minutes on a parchment-lined tray, tossing halfway through.

What type of hot sauce works best?

Frank’s Red Hot is classic, but you can use any hot sauce you like, depending on spice preference.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, substitute plant-based butter for a fully vegan buffalo sauce.

Can I use silken tofu for this recipe?

No, silken tofu is too soft. Use firm or extra firm tofu for best results.

How can I reduce the spice level?

Use a mild hot sauce or mix in a little honey or maple syrup with the buffalo sauce to balance the heat.

Can I prepare the tofu ahead of time?

You can prep and season the tofu in advance, then cook it fresh before serving for best texture.

What can I serve with buffalo tofu besides salad?

It pairs well in wraps, grain bowls, tacos, or served as a snack with dipping sauces.

Can I freeze buffalo tofu?

Cooked tofu doesn’t freeze well as it loses texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge.

What dressings pair best with buffalo tofu?

Caesar, ranch, or bleu cheese dressings balance the spice beautifully, but a light vinaigrette also works.

Conclusion

Crispy buffalo tofu with Caesar salad is a quick, wholesome dish that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Whether served as a main, a wrap filling, or a topping for salads, it’s a versatile recipe that will satisfy both kids and adults. With its crispy texture, spicy kick, and creamy dressing, this dish is bound to become a go-to weeknight favorite.

Lily