Marry Me Tofu in Creamy Tomato Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Silky tofu simmered in a rich, herb-infused tomato sauce perfect over pasta or crusty bread. This italian-inspired vegan (vegan) ready in about 35 minutes blends extra-firm tofu, olive oil, medium yellow onion, finely chopped into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 25 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Drain and press 14 oz extra-firm tofu, then cut into 1-inch cubes. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add tofu cubes and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden on all sides; remove tofu and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and sauté 1 medium finely chopped yellow onion and 4 minced garlic cloves over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Stir in 14 oz crushed tomatoes, 1/2 cup vegetable broth, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, 3/4 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  4. Step 4: Stir in 2 tbsp nutritional yeast and 1/4 cup coconut cream, then gently fold in the tofu cubes. Cook for another 5 minutes to warm through and meld flavors.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat, sprinkle 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil over the top, and serve hot over cooked pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Marry Me Tofu in Creamy Tomato Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 35 minutes (10 min prep + 25 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Marry Me Tofu in Creamy Tomato Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Marry Me Tofu in Creamy Tomato Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Marry Me Tofu in Creamy Tomato Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Marry Me Tofu in Creamy Tomato Sauce vegan?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegan based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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