Hey y'all! Welcome to my West Virginia kitchen! If you think tofu is bland or dry, this sheet pan lemon pepper tofu is about to change your mind. This is one of those simple, feel-good dinners that looks fancy, tastes crave-worthy, and doesn’t require babysitting the stove. Everything roasts together on one pan, but the timing is what makes it magic.
This version was built to solve the most common tofu problems: dryness, lack of flavor, and sad vegetables. We’re fixing all of that — on purpose. I can't wait to share it with you so...
Let's Get Started!
Why This Lemon Pepper Tofu Recipe Is Better
- Sweet potatoes are par-roasted so they caramelize without drying out later
- Tofu is marinated before roasting for crisp edges and soft, juicy centers
- Lemon shows up three ways: zest, juice, and lemon pepper seasoning
- A finishing drizzle locks in moisture and flavor (don’t skip it)
Ingredients
For the Sweet Potatoes
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into ¾-inch cubes
- 1½ tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Lemon Pepper Tofu (Flavor Bomb)
- 2 (14-oz) blocks extra-firm tofu, pressed but not bone-dry
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1½ tsp lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)
Green Beans (Protected from Drying Out)
- 12 oz fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp lemon pepper
- Pinch of salt
Finish (Non-Negotiable)
- Fresh lemon wedges
- Chopped parsley or dill
- Garlic aïoli, for drizzling
Instructions (Timing Matters)
1. Heat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 425°F
- Line a large rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper
2. Par-Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Tender centers, caramelized edges, zero dryness.
- Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, smoked paprika, and pepper
- Spread over half of the sheet pan
- Roast 18–20 minutes, flipping once
They should be fork-tender with golden edges.
3. Marinate the Tofu (Where the Flavor Happens)
While the potatoes roast, toss tofu with olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
Let sit for 10–15 minutes.
4. Add the Tofu & Green Beans
- Remove the pan from the oven
- Push sweet potatoes to one side
- Spread tofu in a single layer
- Toss green beans with olive oil, lemon pepper, and salt
- Add green beans last, loosely nestled (not buried)
5. Roast Until Perfect
- Return pan to oven
- Roast 20–22 minutes, flipping tofu halfway
Optional: Broil for 2 minutes at the end for extra golden tofu edges.
6. Finish for Moisture & Pop
- Immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pan
- Drizzle garlic aïoli while everything is hot
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs
- Finish with cracked black pepper
Chicken Option (If You’re Not Feeling Tofu)
This recipe works beautifully as a lemon pepper chicken sheet pan meal.
- Use 1½–2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast
- Cut into large chunks or thick strips
Marinade: Olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
Marinate chicken for 20–30 minutes (up to 8 hours refrigerated).
- Par-roast sweet potatoes as written
- Add chicken after potatoes roast 18–20 minutes
- Roast 22–25 minutes, flipping once
- Chicken is done at 165°F internal temp
If I Were Serving This to Guests…
I’d plate it over lemon herb orzo, drizzle extra garlic aïoli, and finish with flaky salt and fresh lemon zest right at the table.
Simple. Fresh. And proof that weeknight dinners don’t have to be boring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep components ahead, but roast fresh for best texture.
What if I don’t have lemon pepper seasoning?
Use black pepper, extra lemon zest, and a pinch of salt.
Can I use frozen green beans?
Fresh works best. Frozen tends to release moisture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store airtight up to 4 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer.
Is the garlic aïoli required?
Not required, but highly encouraged. Any creamy sauce works.
This This Lemon Pepper Tofu Sheet Pan Meal proves that simple ingredients and smart timing can completely change the outcome. Whether you go with tofu or chicken, the method stays the same: build flavor early, protect moisture, and finish strong. It’s bright, comforting, and exactly the kind of no-fuss meal that earns a permanent spot in the dinner rotation. I know you're gonna love this one, so get in the kitchen and give it a try tonight.
And as always...
Happy Eatin' Y'all!
~The Kitchen Wife~
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