There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish of scalloped potatoes, especially when it’s wrapped in a creamy, garlicky sauce that warms the soul. Imagine lifting a forkful, where each bite reveals the tender layers of lightly crisped potatoes, all while knowing that this decadent delight is entirely vegan and dairy-free. After searching high and low for a recipe that could satisfy my cravings without sacrificing my plant-based lifestyle, I stumbled upon this gem.
It’s quick to make, perfect for family dinners or gatherings, and is guaranteed to impress even your non-vegan friends. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, these Vegan Scalloped Potatoes will become a staple in your kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s create a dish that’s not only hearty and satisfying but bursting with rich, comforting flavor!
Why are Vegan Scalloped Potatoes a Must-Try?
Comforting Flavor: The rich, garlicky sauce envelops each potato slice, creating an irresistible flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Plant-Based Appeal: Even non-vegans will adore this creamy twist on a classic favorite, ensuring it pleases a diverse crowd.
Versatile Base: Feel free to swap in your favorite non-dairy milk and add in extra veggies for a nutritious boost!
Delicious Leftovers: These scalloped potatoes are just as tasty the next day, making them ideal for meal prep. Pair them with Sweet & Sour Tofu Meatballs for a complete meal!
Vegan Scalloped Potatoes Ingredients
For the Potatoes
- Starchy Potatoes – Choose Russets or Yukon Golds for a creamy texture.
- Salt – Start with 2 tsp and adjust to taste to keep flavors bright.
For the Creamy Sauce
- Soy Milk – A great base for the sauce; feel free to use almond or oat milk for a different flavor profile.
- Onion Powder – Adds savory depth; substitute with fresh onions for a robust flavor.
- Dry Minced Onion – Enhances the overall taste; could be omitted if preferred.
- Flour – Thickens the sauce; gluten-free flour works well for a gluten-free dish.
- Minced Garlic – Brings a delightful aroma; using fresh cloves will elevate the flavor.
For Garnish
- Parsley (Optional) – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds vibrant color and freshness.
Dive into the comforting world of Vegan Scalloped Potatoes with these simple ingredients!
How to Make Vegan Scalloped Potatoes
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s essential to have the oven ready to create that perfect creamy texture in your scalloped potatoes.
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Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and thinly slice 12 cups of starchy potatoes. Spread the slices evenly in a generously sprayed 9×13-inch baking pan, layering them lovingly to ensure even cooking.
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Mix the Sauce: In a sealed container, combine soy milk, onion powder, dry minced onion, flour, salt, and minced garlic. Shake vigorously until all ingredients are well-blended, creating a creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
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Thicken the Mixture: Pour the contents of the container into a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
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Coat the Potatoes: Pour that rich, thickened sauce over the layers of potatoes. Gently mix to ensure every slice is beautifully coated with the creamy goodness.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown, creating a delightful contrast in texture.
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a touch of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Scalloped Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the potatoes and layer them in the baking dish up to 24 hours in advance—just cover the dish tightly in the refrigerator to prevent browning. For the creamy sauce, mix the ingredients and store them in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply pour the sauce over the prepared potatoes and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour. This way, you’ll have a comforting, delicious side dish that comes together with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights a breeze!
What to Serve with Vegan Scalloped Potatoes?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement the creamy decadence of scalloped potatoes.
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Sweet & Sour Tofu Meatballs: These protein-packed bites provide a vibrant contrast to the creamy, garlicky layers, making for a satisfying meal.
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Grilled Asparagus: The bright, slightly smoky flavor of grilled asparagus adds freshness and a nice crunch to your plate, balancing the richness of the potatoes.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty taste and crispy texture beautifully juxtapose the smoothness of the scalloped potatoes, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
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Mixed Green Salad: Tossed with a zesty lemon vinaigrette, fresh greens enhance the meal with a refreshing bite, helping to cleanse the palate between rich bites.
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Herbed Quinoa: This nutty, fluffy grain adds some substance without overshadowing the main attraction, while the herbs contribute a refreshing note.
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Vegan Garlic Bread: With its crispy crust and buttery garlic flavor, this side pairs perfectly to mop up any leftover creamy sauce, making every last bite count!
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Chilled Wine Spritzer: A refreshing sparkling drink combines fruity flavors and a bubbly texture to balance the dish’s hearty elements.
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Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Finish off with this silky, rich dessert that’s surprisingly light, providing a sweet conclusion to your delicious meal.
Expert Tips for Vegan Scalloped Potatoes
- Slice Uniformly: Cut potatoes into even slices for consistent cooking. Consider using a mandoline for perfectly thin layers that bake evenly.
- Monitor Salt Levels: Start with less salt and adjust after mixing the sauce. This prevents your dish from becoming overly salty, enhancing the overall flavor of the vegan scalloped potatoes.
- Creamy Consistency: Ensure that the sauce thickens properly by stirring frequently while cooking. This will avoid graininess and keep it perfectly smooth.
- Layer Wisely: Alternate potato layers with the creamy sauce for enhanced flavor penetration. This will ensure every bite is flavorful and satisfying.
- Experiment with Dairy Alternatives: Feel free to substitute soy milk with almond or cashew milk to enjoy different flavors and creaminess while keeping your dish vegan.
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Scalloped Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps your creamy Vegan Scalloped Potatoes fresh and ready for quick meals.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a well-sealed container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months. This helps preserve its creamy texture and delightful flavor.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through, ensuring that the creamy sauce stays smooth.
Vegan Scalloped Potatoes Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delicious dish to suit your tastes and dietary needs!
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Almond Milk: Substitute soy milk with almond milk for a nutty twist that adds a subtle sweetness to the sauce.
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Nutritional Yeast: For a cheesy flavor, stir in a few tablespoons of nutritional yeast with the sauce before pouring it over the potatoes, creating a savory richness.
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Green Veggies: Layer in some fresh spinach or kale between the potato slices for added nutrition and a pop of color in every bite.
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Smoky Flavor: Add a dash of smoked paprika to the sauce for an intriguing smoky flavor that’s sure to delight your palate.
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Herby Delight: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme mixed into the sauce, enhancing the dish with aromatic flavor notes.
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Spicy Kick: Spice things up by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, providing a gentle heat that elevates the overall experience.
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Cauliflower Layers: Mix in layers of thinly sliced cauliflower with the potatoes for an extra veggie boost and a delightful textural contrast.
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Cashew Cream: For an ultra-creamy experience, replace part of the soy milk with blended soaked cashews to take the richness to another level.
Vegan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for the best results?
Absolutely! For the best texture, I recommend using starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. They create that creamy mouthfeel that’s essential for scalloped potatoes. Avoid waxy potatoes as they may not soften as nicely.
How should I store leftover Vegan Scalloped Potatoes?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s sealed well to keep all that deliciousness intact! Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes to restore its creamy consistency.
Can I freeze Vegan Scalloped Potatoes?
Yes! For freezing, make sure to let the dish cool completely. Then, transfer it to a well-sealed container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What if my sauce turns out too thick?
If you find your sauce is too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a little more non-dairy milk, slowly stirring in while on low heat until you reach your desired consistency. This will not only adjust the thickness but also enhance the creaminess!
Are these Vegan Scalloped Potatoes suitable for my gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour mix in the creamy sauce to enjoy these scalloped potatoes without any gluten worries. Just make sure to check the labels of your non-dairy milk to ensure it’s gluten-free as well.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Very! You can certainly add layers of other vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition and color. Just make sure they’re cut thinly to cook evenly with the potatoes. Enjoy experimenting!
Creamy Vegan Scalloped Potatoes That Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and thinly slice 12 cups of starchy potatoes. Spread them evenly in a generously sprayed 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a sealed container, combine soy milk, onion powder, dry minced onion, flour, salt, and minced garlic. Shake until well-blended.
- Pour the mixture into a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until it thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
- Pour the thickened sauce over the potatoes, mixing gently to coat each slice.
- Bake for 1 hour until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
- Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.