If you’ve been hunting for a hearty, dairy-free dish that brings serious comfort to your plate without piling up the dishes—look no further. This One Pot Vegan Cheesy Tofu & Veggies is your new weeknight hero.
With its creamy, savory flavor and satisfying texture, it’s got all the hallmarks of a cozy casserole but with the simplicity of a quick skillet dinner. With peas, corn, and fresh herbs like dill, basil, and cilantro in the mix, this one-pot wonder bursts with color and freshness.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Quick & Easy: Made in just one pot—less mess, more flavor.
- Nutritious & Filling: Packed with protein from tofu, fiber-rich veggies, and vibrant herbs.
- Dairy-Free & Gluten-Free: A creamy cheesy meal without compromise.
- Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies or seasonings.
- Kid-Friendly: Mild, cheesy flavor with sweet pops of corn and peas.
Other Tofu Recipes!
- Creamy Vegan Cheesy Miso Tofu & Vegetables Recipe
- Boiled Tofu with Ginger, Garlic, and Scallion
- Easy Vegan Chicken Tikka Masala (Tofu)
- Yuzu Tofu and Herby Couscous
- Crispy Vegan Cheesy Tofu
- Tofu with Mushroom Sherry Sauce
- Panda Express Tofu & Eggplant Recipe
Ingredients
- Plant Milk: Unsweetened, creamy base that blends beautifully with vegan cheese.
- Better than Bouillon: A rich, umami-packed paste that gives depth and savory body.
- Vegan Cheese: Melts into the sauce for gooey, comforting goodness.
- Greens (Spinach, Kale, or Swiss Chard): Wilts beautifully, adds nutrients and color.
- Onions: Aromatic base that adds sweetness and texture when cooked.
- Fennel: Slightly sweet with a subtle licorice flavor—pairs wonderfully with onion.
- Green Beans: Crisp and vibrant, they bring crunch and freshness.
- Peas: Naturally sweet and tender, they pop with every bite.
- Corn: Bright and juicy, bringing a bit of summer sunshine to the dish.
- Firm Tofu: Holds its shape when seared—high-protein and a sponge for flavor.
- Fresh Herbs (Dill, Basil, Cilantro): Each adds unique freshness—dill for tang, basil for warmth, and cilantro for zest.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sear the Tofu
- Drain and press the tofu to remove excess moisture.
- Cube it and sear in a bit of oil until golden and crispy.
- Remove and set aside.
2. Add Veggies
- In the same pot, sauté onions and fennel until soft and fragrant.
- Toss in green beans, peas, and corn. Cook for 3-5 minutes until just tender.
3. Add Greens and Herbs
- Add your leafy greens and cook until wilted.
- Stir in chopped fresh dill, basil, and cilantro for that herbal burst of flavor.
4. Add Seasonings, Cheese, and Liquid
- Return tofu to the pot.
- Stir in Better than Bouillon, a splash of plant milk, and vegan cheese.
- Mix until everything is creamy and evenly coated.
- Simmer gently to allow flavors to meld.
Variations
- Smoky Vibes: Add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a BBQ twist.
- Extra Protein: Stir in cooked lentils or chickpeas with the veggies.
- Herb Swap: Try thyme or oregano instead of cilantro for a Mediterranean feel.
Substitutions
| Original Ingredient | Substitute Options |
|---|---|
| Firm Tofu | Tempeh, Chickpeas, or Vegan Chicken |
| Vegan Cheese | Nutritional Yeast + Cashew Cream |
| Plant Milk | Coconut Milk for extra creaminess |
| Greens | Zucchini, Broccoli, or Bell Peppers |
| Herbs | Mint, Parsley, or Green Onion |
Top Tip
Add herbs last to preserve their fresh, bright flavors—especially cilantro and dill, which can lose their zing when overcooked.
Hint
For a slightly crisp top, transfer the dish to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and more vegan cheese, and broil for 3-4 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen peas and corn?
Yes! Just toss them in straight from the freezer during the veggie stage.
2. What if I don’t like cilantro?
Leave it out or swap it with parsley or more basil.
3. Will this work with pre-marinated tofu?
Absolutely—it adds extra flavor from the start.
4. Can I make it ahead of time?
Definitely. It keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days and reheats beautifully.
5. Can I skip the cheese?
Yes, but add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for that cheesy vibe.
6. What’s the best way to serve it?
Serve as-is, over quinoa, rice, or with a chunk of crusty bread.
Easy Weeknight One Pot Vegan Cheesy Tofu & Veggies
If you’ve been hunting for a hearty, dairy-free dish that brings serious comfort to your plate without piling up the dishes—look no further. This One Pot Vegan Cheesy Tofu & Veggies is your new weeknight hero. With its creamy, savory flavor and satisfying texture, it’s got all the hallmarks of a cozy casserole but with the simplicity of a quick skillet dinner. With peas, corn, and fresh herbs like dill, basil, and cilantro in the mix, this one-pot wonder bursts with color and freshness.
Ingredients
- 1 block 14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 –2 tablespoons olive oil for searing
- 1 medium yellow onion thinly sliced
- 1 small fennel bulb thinly sliced
- 1 cup green beans trimmed and halved
- ¾ cup corn fresh or frozen
- ¾ cup green peas fresh or frozen
- 2 cups leafy greens spinach, kale, or chard, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1 cup vegan shredded cheese cheddar-style preferred
- 1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon vegetable base
- To taste salt
- To taste black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for spice
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice optional, for brightness
Instructions
Sear the Tofu
- Drain and press the tofu to remove excess moisture.
- Cube it and sear in a bit of oil until golden and crispy.
- Remove and set aside.
Add Veggies
- In the same pot, sauté onions and fennel until soft and fragrant.
- Toss in green beans, peas, and corn. Cook for 3-5 minutes until just tender.
Add Greens and Herbs
- Add your leafy greens and cook until wilted.
- Stir in chopped fresh dill, basil, and cilantro for that herbal burst of flavor.
Add Seasonings, Cheese, and Liquid
- Return tofu to the pot.
- Stir in Better than Bouillon, a splash of plant milk, and vegan cheese.
- Mix until everything is creamy and evenly coated.
- Simmer gently to allow flavors to meld.
