Sliders with BBQ Tofu

Name: Sliders with BBQ Tofu
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 block firm tofu, pressed and sliced; 1/2 cup barbecue sauce; 4 slider buns; 1 cup coleslaw mix; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste; Sliced pickles (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making these Sliders with BBQ Tofu! They have become a go-to dish in my kitchen, combining the smoky flavors of barbecue sauce with the satisfying texture of tofu. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these sliders never fail to impress everyone who tries them. The sweetness of the BBQ sauce complements the tofu beautifully and pairs perfectly with fresh toppings. Plus, they are easy to make and can be assembled in no time, making them an excellent option for both experienced cooks and beginners alike.

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:07:14.717Z

When I first created this recipe for Sliders with BBQ Tofu, I wanted to show that plant-based meals can be just as satisfying as traditional meat dishes. I experimented with different brands of BBQ sauce and settled on one that has just the right balance of sweetness and tang. The tofu absorbs the flavors beautifully and I learned that pressing the tofu before marinating is key to achieving a firmer texture.

Each time I serve these sliders at gatherings, I get requests for the recipe. I love pairing them with crunchy coleslaw for added texture and freshness. A simple tip I picked up is to toast the slider buns lightly—this adds an extra touch and keeps them from getting soggy with the sauce!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Smoky barbecue flavor that brings a satisfying depth
A perfect blend of textures with crispy toppings
Ideal for both casual meals and festive occasions

      

Tofu Technique Matters

Pressing the tofu is a crucial step for achieving the right texture in these sliders. It removes excess moisture, allowing the tofu to absorb more flavor from the barbecue sauce. I recommend pressing for at least 30 minutes if time allows, using a tofu press or wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel and placing a heavy object on top. This will give you firmer, chewier tofu that holds up beautifully in the sliders.

When marinating, consider letting the tofu soak up the barbecue sauce for longer than the recommended 15 minutes—up to an hour in the fridge if you have the time. This extended marination will deepen the flavor, resulting in a more robust taste that permeates every bite. Remember to turn the tofu occasionally to ensure even coverage.

Coleslaw Insights

The coleslaw adds not just crunch but also a bright acidity that balances the richness of the barbecued tofu. For a twist, you can substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative or Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Also, feel free to experiment with the coleslaw mix—adding shredded carrots or diced apples for sweetness can elevate the flavor profile of your slider.

Make sure to prepare the slaw just before assembling the sliders to keep it crunchy. If made too far ahead, the slaw may wilt, losing its appealing texture. For an extra kick, try adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the mix for a hint of tanginess that pairs wonderfully with smoky tofu.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of side dishes. I love pairing them with sweet potato fries or a refreshing cucumber salad to create a full meal. For an even heartier experience, consider adding a slice of vegan cheese on top of the BBQ tofu while cooking—it melts beautifully and adds creaminess to the dish.

If you're preparing these sliders for a crowd, you can grill a larger batch of tofu simultaneously. Just be careful not to overcrowd your grill or skillet, as this can lower the cooking temperature and prevent good char marks. You can keep the cooked sliders warm in a low oven (around 200°F) until you're ready to serve. Just remember, enjoy them fresh for the best texture!

Ingredients for Sliders with BBQ Tofu

For the Sliders

1 block firm tofu, pressed and sliced
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
4 slider buns
1 cup coleslaw mix
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Sliced pickles (optional)

Instructions

How to Prepare Sliders with BBQ Tofu

Marinate the Tofu

In a bowl, combine the sliced tofu with barbecue sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Tofu

Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the marinated tofu for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until char marks appear and it is heated through.

Prepare the Slaw

In another bowl, mix the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning as necessary.

Assemble the Sliders

Toast the slider buns lightly. Place a piece of BBQ tofu on each bun, top with the coleslaw, and add pickles if desired. Serve immediately.

Enjoy Your Sliders!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding sliced avocado or jalapeños as toppings. Using whole grain buns can make it healthier and add more texture.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, I recommend storing the assembled sliders separately from the coleslaw to maintain their texture. The tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat the tofu gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying it out, making sure it is heated through before serving.

The coleslaw mixture can last in the fridge for about two days, but be mindful of its freshness. If you find it getting too watery from additional moisture, add a bit of cabbage to absorb the extra liquid and restore its crunch before serving.

Variation Ideas

You can easily switch up the flavor profile by experimenting with different barbecue sauces. A spicy chipotle barbecue sauce can give your tofu a serious kick, while a sweet and tangy apple barbecue sauce can provide a delightful contrast. Don't shy away from crafting your own homemade barbecue sauce if you're feeling adventurous—it's a great way to customize the flavor to your liking.

For those looking for a gluten-free option, swap out the slider buns for portobello mushroom caps or lettuce wraps. It will give a unique twist to the dish while keeping it light and refreshing. This approach also enhances the smoky flavor of the BBQ tofu, making for a satisfying yet healthy alternative.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different protein instead of tofu?

Yes, you can substitute the tofu with tempeh or seitan for a different texture and flavor.

→ What type of BBQ sauce works best?

Choose a BBQ sauce that you enjoy; a sweet and smoky variety works well for enhancing the tofu's flavor.

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the tofu in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.

→ Are these sliders gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free buns and ensure your BBQ sauce is also gluten-free.