Scalloped potatoes are the epitome of comfort food. Their creamy, cheesy layers meld together into a luscious, mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any special occasion or as a side dish at family meals. Traditionally made with butter, cream, and cheese, they are rich and indulgent. But what happens when you swap out the meat-based elements and turn it into a vegetarian delight? Enter vegetarian scalloped potatoes: the dish that delivers all the creamy, cheesy goodness with a little twist, leaving you just as satisfied and coming back for more.
This vegetarian scalloped potatoes recipe is ideal for those looking to create a comforting side dish without the meat, but it doesn’t sacrifice flavor. You’ll find layers of tender potatoes, subtly flavored with garlic, onions, and herbs, all enveloped in a creamy sauce made with plant-based ingredients. It’s a simple yet elegant dish, and it fits beautifully into nearly any meal plan, whether you’re preparing a holiday feast, a Sunday dinner, or just want something hearty during the week.
Let’s dive into this recipe and explore everything you need to know to get these scalloped potatoes from the kitchen to your table.
Vegetarian Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
This vegetarian scalloped potatoes recipe uses fresh ingredients and swaps out heavy animal products for plant-based alternatives while still giving you that rich, velvety texture that’s the hallmark of any good scalloped potato dish. With a little care and the right balance of flavors, you’ll end up with a side dish that’s both satisfying and a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients Needed
To make this vegetarian scalloped potatoes recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- Russet Potatoes – About 6-8 medium potatoes. Russets are perfect because they’re starchy and absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Vegan Butter – 1/4 cup. A great option for adding richness without dairy.
- Vegan Heavy Cream – 2 cups. For that smooth, velvety consistency without the dairy.
- Vegan Cheese (shredded) – 1 1/2 cups. Choose a mild, meltable cheese like vegan cheddar or a blend of vegan mozzarella for the best results.
- Onion – 1 medium-sized, finely chopped. This adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced. Garlic brings that classic savory touch to the dish.
- Vegetable Broth – 1 cup. Adds flavor and helps thin the sauce just a bit without making it too runny.
- Fresh Thyme – 1 tsp (or 1/2 tsp dried). For that earthy, aromatic note.
- Fresh Rosemary – 1 tsp, finely chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried). Rosemary’s piney fragrance complements the potatoes beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper – To taste. You’ll need these to bring everything together.
- Nutritional Yeast – 2 tbsp. Optional, but highly recommended for adding a cheesy, umami flavor.
- Breadcrumbs – 1 cup. This adds a crispy topping that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy layers.
Cooking Instructions
Now that we have everything prepped, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these steps to make your vegetarian scalloped potatoes:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it nice and hot.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and peel the russet potatoes. Slice them thinly, about 1/8-inch thick, using a sharp knife or mandolin. This ensures they cook evenly and soak up that creamy goodness.
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Make The Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, vegan heavy cream, fresh thyme, rosemary, and salt & pepper. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.
- Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Then, add the nutritional yeast (if using) for a cheesy, umami depth.
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Layer The Potatoes
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of vegan butter or oil.
- Arrange a layer of thinly sliced potatoes on the bottom of the dish, slightly overlapping them. Pour a generous amount of the cream sauce over this first layer.
- Sprinkle a handful of shredded vegan cheese on top.
- Repeat the layering process, alternating potatoes, sauce, and cheese until all ingredients are used up.
- Top and Bake: Once your layers are stacked, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly on top. This will create a crispy, golden topping. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Final Crisping: After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Let it Rest: Allow the scalloped potatoes to rest for about 10 minutes before serving to help the sauce set.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Let’s break down the magic behind some of the key ingredients:
- Potatoes: The primary ingredient, potatoes bring both texture and substance to the dish. Russet potatoes, specifically, are rich in starch, which helps them absorb the creamy sauce, making each bite melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Vegan Butter and Vegan Cream: These are the secret to achieving that rich, velvety sauce that coats the potatoes. Vegan butter is usually made from oils like coconut or olive, and vegan cream is typically made from plant-based milks like soy or cashew, with added thickeners to replicate the creamy consistency of dairy.
- Vegan Cheese: The vegan cheese used in this dish helps provide a familiar, cheesy flavor. While dairy-free cheeses have a different taste and texture, they still offer a rich, gooey melt that’s perfect for scalloped potatoes.
- Nutritional Yeast: This is often a hidden gem in vegan cooking. It has a naturally cheesy, nutty flavor that can help amplify the richness of the dish without adding dairy.
Expert Tips
- Thin Slices Are Key: Ensure your potato slices are uniformly thin. This allows them to cook evenly and absorb the cream sauce better, creating a tender and creamy texture throughout.
- Don’t Skimp on the Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary add layers of flavor, elevating the dish beyond just potatoes and cream. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones will work, but fresh herbs have a much more vibrant taste.
- Use a Mandolin for Precision: A mandolin slicer can make slicing your potatoes a breeze, and it ensures every slice is uniform, promoting even cooking.
- Resting Is Important: Let the dish rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps everything set, and it’s easier to cut into neat slices.
Recipe Variations
If you want to shake things up a bit, here are some variations on the classic vegetarian scalloped potatoes recipe:
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, kale, or even sautéed mushrooms between the layers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: For a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or use a spicy vegan cheese.
- Cheesy Baked Top: If you prefer an even crispier, cheesier top, add a bit more shredded vegan cheese on the final layer before baking.
- Herb Variations: Swap out the thyme and rosemary for other herbs like sage or basil, which can complement the creamy texture in different ways.
Final Words
Vegetarian scalloped potatoes are a delightful twist on the traditional dish, offering the same comforting richness without relying on animal-based products. The combination of creamy sauce, tender potatoes, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that will satisfy both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just looking to add a little comfort to your everyday meals, this recipe will become a staple. The best part is that you can customize it to suit your tastes and dietary preferences, making it as simple or as gourmet as you like.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For A Vegetarian Scalloped Potatoes Recipe?
The basic ingredients for a vegetarian scalloped potatoes recipe include potatoes, butter, milk, flour, cheese (typically cheddar or a blend), garlic, onion, salt, pepper, and optional herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Can I Make Vegetarian Scalloped Potatoes Without Cheese?
Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by using plant-based cheese alternatives or simply omitting cheese. You can also enhance the flavor with additional herbs, nutritional yeast, or a vegan cream sauce.
What Type Of Potatoes Are Best For Making Scalloped Potatoes?
Starchy potatoes, such as Russet potatoes, are ideal for scalloped potatoes due to their ability to break down and create a creamy texture. Yukon Gold potatoes also work well for a slightly firmer, buttery texture.
Can I Make Vegetarian Scalloped Potatoes In Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Assemble the potatoes, sauce, and seasoning, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to adjust the cooking time if the dish is cold when you bake it.
Can I Use A Different Type Of Milk In A Vegetarian Scalloped Potatoes Recipe?
Absolutely. You can use plant-based milk, such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk, as a substitute for dairy milk. Just ensure the milk is unsweetened and unflavored to maintain the savory taste of the dish.
How Do I Prevent My Scalloped Potatoes From Being Too Watery?
To avoid watery scalloped potatoes, be sure to cook the potatoes in a thick sauce and avoid over-washing them. You can also consider using a thicker cream or non-dairy cream alternative to help absorb moisture.
Is It Possible To Make Vegetarian Scalloped Potatoes Without Using Flour?
Yes, you can make the sauce without flour by using cornstarch, arrowroot powder, or a potato starch slurry as a thickener. Alternatively, you can use a creamy base like coconut milk or blended cashews to create a smooth texture.
How Long Should I Bake Vegetarian Scalloped Potatoes?
Vegetarian scalloped potatoes typically need to bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly. Cover the dish with foil for the first 30 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Can I Add Vegetables To My Vegetarian Scalloped Potatoes?
Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, kale, or mushrooms to your vegetarian scalloped potatoes. These ingredients can be layered with the potatoes or sautéed beforehand and incorporated into the sauce.
What Can I Serve With Vegetarian Scalloped Potatoes?
Vegetarian scalloped potatoes pair well with roasted or grilled vegetables, a crisp salad, or a main protein such as a vegetarian roast or lentil loaf. They also complement lighter dishes like sautéed greens or steamed broccoli.