Super Bowl Party Food Crispy Tofu Nuggets

Name: Super Bowl Party Food Crispy Tofu Nuggets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into bite-sized cubes; 1 cup cornstarch; 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying; Dipping sauces of your choice

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making crispy tofu nuggets for Super Bowl parties because they always impress both guests and family alike. The crunch is irresistible, and dipping them in my favorite sauces makes them even better. After experimenting with various coatings and cooking methods, I discovered that a combination of cornstarch and breadcrumbs yields the most satisfying crispiness. Whether you're a football fan or just looking for a tasty snack, these nuggets are guaranteed to steal the spotlight on game day.

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:07:03.810Z

When we first decided to offer a vegetarian option at our Super Bowl gathering, I was a bit hesitant about tofu. However, after perfecting this crispy tofu nugget recipe, it quickly became a favorite among our friends. The secret lies in letting the tofu marinate before coating it, which ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.

I also found that shallow frying the nuggets in just an inch of oil gives them a beautiful golden exterior while keeping them tender inside. Serve them hot with a variety of sauces for dipping, and watch them disappear!

        Why You'll Love These Nuggets
        Crispy exterior with a tender inside that’s full of flavor
Easy to customize with your favorite spices and dips
A perfect plant-based alternative for game day snacks

      

Understanding the Coating

The combination of cornstarch and breadcrumbs is crucial for achieving the ideal crunchy texture of these tofu nuggets. Cornstarch creates a light, crisp layer that adheres perfectly to the tofu, while breadcrumbs provide an additional crunch. Using panko breadcrumbs increases the texture contrast, giving you an extra satisfying bite. Make sure to coat each piece thoroughly to ensure no part is left exposed; this could lead to soggy spots during frying.

It’s essential to season the cornstarch mixture well. The garlic powder and paprika not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to the appealing golden color as they caramelize during cooking. Adjust the seasoning based on your personal preferences; for a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or substitute smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor.

Frying Tips for Perfect Nuggets

When frying, use a heavy-bottomed skillet or a deep fryer to maintain consistent heat. This prevents temperature fluctuations that can result in soggy nuggets or burnt outsides. Aim for a frying temperature of 350°F (175°C); this is hot enough to create that crispy exterior without overcooking the inside. If you don’t have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping in a small piece of bread—if it bubbles and browns in about 30 seconds, your oil is ready.

Fry the nuggets in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to uneven cooking. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, flipping gently with tongs or a slotted spoon until they are golden brown. If you notice some nuggets browning faster than others, move them around in the oil to ensure even cooking.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These crispy tofu nuggets are best served immediately, but you can make them ahead of time. After frying, let the nuggets cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes, which will help restore their crispiness without making them greasy.

For serving, consider a range of dipping sauces to complement the nuggets. A classic BBQ sauce works well, as do sweet chili sauce or garlicky aioli. You can even create a fun dipping station with small bowls of various sauces to encourage your guests to mix and match. Don't hesitate to experiment with different spices in your breadcrumbs or sauces to create unique flavor profiles!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your crispy tofu nuggets.

Crispy Tofu Nuggets

1 block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into bite-sized cubes
1 cup cornstarch
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying
Dipping sauces of your choice

Make sure to prep your ingredients for easy assembly when cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your crispy tofu nuggets.

Prepare the Tofu

Drain the tofu and press it to remove excess moisture. Cut it into bite-sized cubes and set aside.

Coating Mixture

In a bowl, mix the cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, place the breadcrumbs.

Coat the Tofu

Dredge each piece of tofu in the cornstarch mixture first, then dip it in the breadcrumbs, making sure each piece is well-coated.

Fry the Nuggets

Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated tofu nuggets and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

Drain and Serve

Remove the nuggets from the oil and drain them on paper towels. Serve them hot with your preferred dipping sauces.

Enjoy your crispy tofu nuggets just out of the pan for the best texture!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the tofu in soy sauce or your favorite marinade for 30 minutes before coating. You can also experiment with different spices in the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to customize your tofu nuggets with additional spices or herbs in the cornstarch mixture. For instance, adding Italian seasoning can lend an herbaceous note that's especially warm and comforting. Alternatively, try adding a touch of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy, which pairs excellently with the crispy texture of the nuggets.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute regular breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or use ground oats. For a nutty flavor, consider using almond flour combined with cornstarch for the coating. Both options will still achieve that desirable crunch while catering to various dietary needs.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your tofu nuggets aren't getting crispy enough, ensure that you are not adding too many to the pan at once. Overloading the pan can lower the oil temperature drastically, resulting in soggy nuggets. Keeping a steady oil temperature is key for that crispy exterior. If you notice moisture once they’re fried, lay them out on paper towels immediately to absorb any excess oil.

Another common issue might be the coating falling off during frying. Ensure the tofu is well-drained and that each piece is coated with the cornstarch mixture before rolling in breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs onto the tofu gently before frying to help them adhere better. If you find some nuggets without a proper coating when frying, they can still be saved—just give them another dip in cornstarch and breadcrumbs before frying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I bake these tofu nuggets instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

→ How do I store leftover tofu nuggets?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

→ What can I dip these nuggets in?

They're delicious with ranch dressing, sweet chili sauce, or spicy sriracha mayo!

→ Can I use silken tofu instead?

Silken tofu won't work well for this recipe as it's too soft; stick with extra-firm tofu for the best texture.