Sheet Pan Maple Soy Glazed Tofu with Rice Noodles

If you’re looking for a simple yet incredibly tasty weeknight meal, this Sheet Pan Maple Soy Glazed Tofu with Rice Noodles is an absolute game changer. Combining the rich, savory glaze of soy sauce with the natural sweetness of maple syrup, this dish offers a perfect harmony of flavors that coats crispy tofu and tender rice noodles. Easy to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients, this recipe brings vibrant color, satisfying textures, and comforting warmth to your dinner table—all from one sheet pan.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cleanup: Cooking everything on one sheet pan means fewer dishes and more time to relax after dinner.
• Balanced Flavors: The maple soy glaze offers a sweet-savory combo that perfectly complements the mild tofu and delicate rice noodles.
• Quick Prep: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights when time is tight.
• Healthy Ingredients: Featuring plant-based protein and gluten-free rice noodles, it caters to a wide range of dietary preferences.
• Customizable: The base recipe invites you to add your favorite veggies or spices to suit your personal taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Sheet Pan Maple Soy Glazed Tofu with Rice Noodles lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a role in building layers of texture, color, and mouthwatering flavor without complicating the process.

• Firm tofu: Choose firm or extra-firm tofu for maximum crispiness and protein content.
• Maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness that balances the saltiness of the soy glaze.
• Soy sauce: Provides umami depth and a rich, savory base for the glaze.
• Sesame oil: Brings a subtle nutty flavor that enhances overall aroma and taste.
• Garlic and ginger: Fresh minced versions introduce a fragrant and zesty punch.
• Rice noodles: Soft and light, these noodles soak up the glaze beautifully without overpowering the tofu.
• Green onions and sesame seeds: Perfect finishing touches for vibrant color and added crunch.

Variations for Sheet Pan Maple Soy Glazed Tofu with Rice Noodles

Feel free to make this recipe your own by experimenting with different ingredients or tweaking flavors to suit your mood or dietary needs. It’s incredibly versatile and adjusts effortlessly to what you have on hand.

• Veggie boost: Add bell peppers, broccoli florets, or snap peas to the sheet pan for extra nutrition and color.
• Spicy kick: Stir in chili flakes or drizzle sriracha over the tofu before baking for some heat.
• Gluten-free swap: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep this recipe 100% gluten-free.
• Crunch upgrade: Toss finished tofu with chopped roasted peanuts or cashews for added texture.
• Herbal freshness: Garnish with fresh cilantro or Thai basil to brighten each bite.

How to Make Sheet Pan Maple Soy Glazed Tofu with Rice Noodles

Step 1: Prepare the tofu

Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve that perfect crispy texture when baked. After pressing, cut the tofu into evenly sized cubes for consistent cooking.

Step 2: Make the glaze

Whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger in a bowl. This glaze will infuse the tofu with layers of sweet and savory goodness.

Step 3: Marinate and arrange on the sheet pan

Toss the tofu cubes gently in the glaze, making sure each piece is fully coated. Spread the tofu out evenly on a lined sheet pan to give them space for even roasting and caramelization.

Step 4: Bake the tofu

Place the sheet pan in a preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through to ensure all sides get a beautifully crisp glaze.

Step 5: Cook the rice noodles

While the tofu bakes, soak or boil the rice noodles according to package instructions until tender but still slightly firm (al dente). Drain and set aside.

Step 6: Combine and serve

Once the tofu is baked to crispy perfection, toss it gently with the cooked rice noodles and any additional glaze left on the pan. Finish with a sprinkle of green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Sheet Pan Maple Soy Glazed Tofu with Rice Noodles

• Press tofu thoroughly: For crisp texture, press tofu for at least 20 minutes to remove as much water as possible.
• Use parchment paper: Lining your sheet pan prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Giving tofu enough space helps each cube get evenly crisped and caramelized.
• Adjust glaze thickness: If glaze is too runny, simmer it briefly to thicken before coating tofu.
• Serve immediately: Crispy tofu tastes best fresh from the oven, so serve right away for maximum flavor and texture.

How to Serve Sheet Pan Maple Soy Glazed Tofu with Rice Noodles

Garnishes

Brighten your dish with sliced green onions, a generous sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, and optionally, fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil for an aromatic finish.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs perfectly with crunchy Asian slaw, steamed vegetables, or a simple cucumber salad to add freshness and balance to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the tofu and noodles in crisp lettuce cups or wrap them in rice paper for handheld lettuce wraps bursting with flavor and texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover tofu and noodles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them separate helps prevent sogginess and preserves texture.

Freezing

While tofu freezes well, the rice noodles may become mushy after thawing. It’s best to freeze tofu alone if you want to meal prep in advance.

Reheating

Reheat tofu in a hot skillet or oven to regain crispness, while warming noodles gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or soy sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of tofu for this recipe?

Firm or extra-firm tofu works best for roasting and glazing, but you can also try pressed medium-firm tofu for a softer texture.

Are rice noodles gluten-free?

Yes, rice noodles are naturally gluten-free, making this dish friendly for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

How do I prevent tofu from sticking to the sheet pan?

Using parchment paper or a light brush of oil on the sheet pan helps prevent tofu from sticking while baking.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as it uses tofu and plant-based ingredients exclusively.

What can I substitute for maple syrup?

Honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives, though maple syrup adds a distinct depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.

Final Thoughts

This Sheet Pan Maple Soy Glazed Tofu with Rice Noodles is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that suits all kinds of weeknight dinners. Its combination of sweet and savory flavors tied with a crisp texture and simple prep will quickly turn it into one of your favorite go-to recipes. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious, healthy meal that feels like a treat without the fuss!

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