When it comes to plant-based protein sources, few options are as versatile and delicious as tempeh. This fermented soybean product can be used in a wide range of dishes, from stir-fries and salads to sandwiches and main courses. And when you bake it, the possibilities become even more endless! In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering savory baked tempeh recipes that are perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next dinner party.
From classic flavors like maple-glazed and teriyaki to bold twists like spicy sriracha and buffalo sauce, these recipes showcase the incredible range of flavors and textures that baked tempeh can offer. And with its high protein content and versatility in both sweet and savory dishes, it’s no wonder why tempeh has become a staple ingredient for many plant-based cooks.
So go ahead, get baking, and discover the amazing world of savory baked tempeh!
Maple-Glazed Baked Tempeh Strips
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and flavorful tempeh strips, smothered in a sticky maple glaze. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a tasty addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of tempeh, cut into thin strips
– 2 tbsp maple syrup
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp rice vinegar
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the tempeh strips to the glaze and toss to coat evenly.
4. Place the glazed tempeh strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Baked Tempeh Bites
Elevate your snack game with these spicy and savory tempeh bites, infused with the bold flavor of sriracha. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a crunchy appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of tempeh, crumbled
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, sriracha sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
3. Add the crumbled tempeh to the bowl and toss until well coated with the marinade.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, roll the tempeh mixture into bite-sized balls and coat with breadcrumbs.
6. Place the tempeh bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Rosemary Baked Tempeh Steaks
Elevate your plant-based game with this easy and aromatic recipe for Garlic Rosemary Baked Tempeh Steaks. This flavorful dish is perfect for a quick dinner or as a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of tempeh, cut into steaks
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and chopped rosemary.
3. Place the tempeh steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the tempeh, then sprinkle the garlic-rosemary mixture evenly over each steak.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tempeh is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Baked Tempeh with Sesame Seeds
This recipe transforms tempeh into a flavorful, sticky treat by marinating it in a sweet teriyaki sauce and topping it with crunchy sesame seeds. Perfect for a quick dinner or snack!
Ingredients:
– 1 block of tempeh
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 teaspoons grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic.
3. Place the tempeh in the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours.
4. Remove tempeh from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the tempeh on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle sesame oil over the tempeh and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crispy and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky BBQ Baked Tempeh Skewers
Transform tempeh into a flavorful and tender snack with these smoky BBQ baked skewers, perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of tempeh, crumbled
– 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add crumbled tempeh to the bowl and toss until coated with the BBQ mixture.
4. Thread about 1/4 cup of the tempeh mixture onto each skewer.
5. Place skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly browned.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Mustard Baked Tempeh Cubes
Add a tangy twist to your snack game with these Honey Mustard Baked Tempeh Cubes! A perfect blend of sweet and savory, this recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 package tempeh, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder.
3. Place the tempeh cubes in a shallow baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Pour the honey-mustard mixture evenly over the tempeh cubes.
5. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tempeh is golden brown and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crispy Breaded Baked Tempeh Cutlets
Elevate your plant-based meals with this easy and satisfying recipe for Crispy Breaded Baked Tempeh Cutlets. With a crunchy exterior and tender interior, these cutlets are perfect for snacking or adding to salads, wraps, or sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of tempeh (8 oz), cut into 4-6 cutlets
– 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp vegan panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together whole wheat breadcrumbs, vegan panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each tempeh cutlet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the breaded cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Lemon Herb Baked Tempeh with Asparagus
Brighten up your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the tanginess of lemon, the earthiness of herbs, and the crispness of asparagus. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy meal that’s packed with protein and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of tempeh
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound asparagus spears
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the tempeh in a shallow baking dish and brush with the lemon mixture.
4. Arrange asparagus spears on top of the tempeh.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tempeh is golden brown and the asparagus is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Sauce Baked Tempeh Wings
Get ready to level up your vegan wings game with this innovative recipe! Buffalo Sauce Baked Tempeh Wings are a game-changer, offering the same spicy kick as traditional chicken wings without the meat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of tempeh, cut into wing-shaped strips
– 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (make sure it’s vegan)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together buffalo sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the tempeh strips to the bowl and toss until they’re fully coated with the buffalo sauce mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the tempeh wings in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tempeh is crispy on the outside and slightly tender inside.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Curry Baked Tempeh Chunks
Elevate your snack game with this easy and aromatic recipe, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. The combination of creamy coconut and warm curry spices adds depth to the nutty tempeh.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of tempeh, cut into 1-inch chunks
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut oil, onion, garlic, curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add tempeh chunks and toss until coated evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange tempeh in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and stir in coconut milk.
7. Serve warm, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun-Spiced Baked Tempeh Fries
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and flavorful tempeh fries, infused with the bold spices of Cajun cuisine. Perfect for a quick appetizer or game-day munchie.
Ingredients:
– 1 block tempeh
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning blend (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut tempeh into fry strips (about 1/2 inch thick).
3. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and oregano.
4. Add Cajun seasoning blend and whisk until well combined.
5. Toss tempeh fries in the spice mixture until coated evenly.
6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange tempeh fries in a single layer.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Miso-Glazed Baked Tempeh with Scallions
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of tempeh with the savory umami of miso, resulting in a deliciously glazed and caramelized plant-based main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of tempeh
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 2 tbsp maple syrup
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup scallions, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, maple syrup, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
3. Place the tempeh on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the miso glaze evenly over both sides of the tempeh.
5. Sprinkle scallions on top of the tempeh.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until caramelized and crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peanut Butter Baked Tempeh Satay
Experience the rich flavors of Southeast Asia with this innovative twist on traditional satay, featuring creamy peanut butter and crispy tempeh. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a flavorful snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of tempeh
– 2 tablespoons of peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/4 cup of coconut oil, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut tempeh into skewer-sized pieces and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, maple syrup, ginger, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the peanut butter mixture evenly onto the tempeh pieces.
5. Drizzle melted coconut oil over the tempeh.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Baked Tempeh Salad
This recipe is a delicious and healthy twist on traditional salads, featuring the nutty flavor of tempeh paired with sweet and tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of tempeh
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mixed greens for serving (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– Optional: cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place tempeh on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the glaze all over it.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tempeh is caramelized and crispy.
5. Let cool slightly before slicing into strips.
6. Assemble the salad by placing mixed greens on a plate, topping with glazed tempeh, and adding optional toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto-Marinated Baked Tempeh Slabs
Elevate your plant-based game with these flavorful slabs of tempeh, marinated in a rich and creamy pesto sauce and baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of tempeh, cut into 8 equal slabs
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together pesto sauce, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Add the tempeh slabs to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the marinated tempeh slabs in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Tempeh should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, tender on the inside.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chinese Five-Spice Baked Tempeh
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the savory taste of tempeh with the warm, aromatic spices of China. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a crunchy addition to salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of tempeh
– 2 tbsp of soy sauce
– 1 tsp of Chinese Five-Spice powder
– 1 tsp of olive oil
– 1/4 cup of chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tempeh into desired size and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and Chinese Five-Spice powder.
4. Brush the tempeh evenly with the soy sauce mixture and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tandoori-Style Baked Tempeh Kebabs
Tandoori-Style Baked Tempeh Kebabs: A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional kebabs!
Ingredients:
– 1 block of tempeh, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons tandoori masala powder
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together tandoori masala powder, lemon juice, garam masala powder, cumin powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add garlic and mix well.
3. Add crumbled tempeh to the marinade and toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove tempeh from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Thread marinated tempeh onto the wooden skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Drizzle with Greek yogurt and olive oil, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until tempeh is golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Baked Tempeh with Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of tempeh with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the freshness of herbs, making for a delicious and healthy vegan dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of tempeh
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tempeh into cubes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the tempeh and sprinkle with garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss to coat evenly.
5. Arrange the cherry tomatoes around the tempeh cubes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tempeh is golden brown and the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chili-Lime Baked Tempeh Tacos
This recipe is a flavorful twist on traditional tacos, featuring the nutty goodness of tempeh marinated in a zesty chili-lime mixture. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of tempeh
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sliced radishes, cilantro, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together lime juice, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and olive oil.
3. Add the tempeh to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
4. Remove the tempeh from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the tempeh on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by slicing the baked tempeh into strips and serving with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Golden Turmeric Baked Tempeh Nuggets
Add a crispy twist to your snack game with these flavorful tempeh nuggets infused with the warmth of turmeric and the comfort of golden breadcrumbs. Perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of tempeh, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon of maple syrup
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together crumbled tempeh, olive oil, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each piece of tempeh into the mixture, coating evenly.
4. Roll coated tempeh in panko breadcrumbs until well-coated.
5. Place nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle maple syrup over the nuggets.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of tempeh with these 20 savory baked recipes, perfect for every occasion. From sweet and sticky to spicy and smoky, there’s something for everyone. Try maple-glazed tempeh strips or sriracha-spiced bites as a snack or appetizer. For a main course, opt for garlic rosemary steaks or teriyaki with sesame seeds. Or, get creative with skewers, cubes, cutlets, and more! Each recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd, these tempeh recipes will become new favorites.