Description
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a warm, creamy, and deeply satisfying side dish made with layers of tender potatoes and melted plant-based cheese. This comforting casserole blends rich flavors and velvety textures to complement any meal or festive gathering, perfect for family or friends.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 4 to 5 large Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled (optional) and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
Cheese Sauce
- 1/4 cup plant-based butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (natural)
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (natural)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups plant-based cheese, shredded (cheddar-style or mozzarella-style)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Optional Garnishes and Variations
- Fresh thyme or rosemary leaves
- Pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper
- Thinly sliced mushrooms or zucchini
- Cashew-based cream (plant-based)
- Toasted breadcrumbs (plant-based)
- Chopped parsley or chives
- Drizzle of grape juice reduction (natural)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes if desired, then slice them evenly about 1/8 inch thick using a mandoline or a sharp knife to ensure even cooking.
- Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the plant-based butter. Add the minced garlic (natural) and cook until fragrant. Stir in vegetable broth, plant-based milk, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), onion powder (natural), salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in the plant-based cheese until melted and smooth. Add the natural gelling agent gradually while stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Layer the Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with plant-based butter. Place a layer of potato slices evenly on the bottom, then pour a generous amount of the cheese sauce over them. Repeat layering potatoes and sauce until all are used. Finish with an extra sprinkle of plant-based cheese on top for a golden crust.
- Bake to Perfection: Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the top is golden, bubbly, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Let It Rest: Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 10 minutes to thicken and allow the flavors to meld, making it easier to serve.
Notes
- Use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice potatoes evenly for uniform cooking.
- Bring plant-based milk and cheese to room temperature before making the sauce to help it melt faster and smoother.
- Pat potatoes dry if they are wet to avoid a watery casserole.
- Add the natural gelling agent gradually to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick.
- Letting the dish rest after baking improves texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cheesy scalloped potatoes, plant-based cheese, creamy potato casserole, vegan side dish, gluten free potato bake