Healthy Vegan Scalloped Potato – A Tradtional Potato Dish

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Finding the perfect balance in a vegan scalloped potato recipe can be a culinary challenge. Many have faced the dilemma of recreating this classic dish’s creamy, comforting essence without dairy. I stumbled upon this issue during my early days of embracing a plant-based lifestyle. 

The quest seemed endless as I sifted through countless recipes, each promising that coveted silky texture and rich flavor. However, I ended up with dishes that were too dry, lacked depth, or simply missed the mark.

That was until I developed a method that transformed this beloved comfort food into a vegan delight. This recipe is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and the joy of cooking with compassion.

What Is A Vegan Scalloped Potato? 

Vegan scalloped potatoes are a plant-based version of the traditional scalloped potato dish, which typically features slices of potatoes baked in a creamy sauce and often topped with cheese.

In the vegan adaptation, dairy products are replaced with alternatives like cashew cream, soy milk, almond milk, or coconut milk to create a creamy texture. In contrast, nutritional yeast or vegan cheese substitutes provide the cheesy flavor.

This version retains the comforting, hearty essence of the original while entirely free from animal products. It is suitable for those following a vegan lifestyle or looking to incorporate more plant-based dishes into their diet.

Quick Fact: Vegan scalloped potatoes cater to dietary preferences and offer a healthier alternative, lower in cholesterol and saturated fats than their dairy-laden counterparts.

Recipe Directions

• Begin by peeling your potatoes and slicing them into 1/8-inch thick rounds. Set aside.
• Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (204 degrees C) and lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
• Prepare the creamy sauce: In a high-powered blender, combine the drained cashews with vegetable broth, non-dairy milk, nutritional yeast, and salt. Blend on high for a few minutes until the mixture is very smooth.
• Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the garlic and continue to cook for another minute, stirring constantly. Turn off the heat and set aside.
• Spread half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. Cover evenly with half of the creamy sauce, followed by the onion and garlic mixture.
• Layer the remaining potatoes on top, followed by the rest of the creamy sauce. Ensure the sauce covers the potatoes well.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes. After this time, check a few potatoes with a fork to ensure they are tender and cooked through. If they are not, return the dish to the oven for 10-20 minutes or until fully cooked. The sauce should be bubbly and thickened nicely.
• Sprinkle vegan parmesan and chopped fresh chives over the baked scalloped potatoes for added flavor.
• Allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes before serving to let the sauce thicken slightly.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

• Cheesy Crust: Add a layer of vegan cheese before baking to create a golden, cheesy crust.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper into the sauce for a spicy version.
• Gluten-Free: To make the dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of the flour used in the sauce.

Add-Ons

• Vegetables: Layer in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or kale for added nutrition and flavor. Thinly sliced bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes also make great additions.
• Herbs: For freshness, fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil can be mixed into the sauce or sprinkled on top.
• Protein: Add layers of cooked lentils or chickpeas between the potato slices for a heartier dish.

Toppings

• Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle bread crumbs mixed with olive oil on top before baking for a crunchy texture.
• Nutritional Yeast: A generous sprinkle of nutritional yeast before serving adds a cheesy flavor boost.
• Green Onions or Chives: When sprinkled on top before serving, fresh-chopped green onions or chives add color and a mild, oniony flavor.
• Vegan Bacon Bits: Sprinkle vegan bacon bits over the baked dish for a smoky flavor.

Vegetable Substitutions

• Zucchini Ribbons For Pasta: A low-carb, gluten-free alternative for lasagna or “noodle” dishes.
• Cauliflower For chicken Or Steak: Great for making vegan “steaks” or buffalo-style bites.
• Mushrooms For Beef: Portobellos make excellent burger patties or steak substitutes due to their meaty texture.
• Eggplant for Fish: When sliced and seasoned, eggplant can mimic the texture of fish, ideal for vegan “fish” and chips.
• Jackfruit for Pulled Pork: Its texture is perfect for BBQ pulled “pork” sandwiches.
• Butternut Squash for Cheese: Creates a creamy, sweet base for vegan mac and cheese.
• Chickpeas for Tuna: Mashed chickpeas are a substitute in tuna salads.

Quick Tip: For a richer flavor in vegan dishes, roast vegetables before adding them to recipes. This enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to your meal.

Best Side Dishes

1. Steamed Green Beans Light and crisp, offering a fresh contrast.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts Their caramelized edges bring a delightful bitterness.
3. Quinoa Salad Adds a protein-packed, refreshing element.
4. Kale Salad Massaged kale with a lemony dressing balances the creaminess.
5. Grilled Asparagus Provides a smoky, tender bite.
6. Sautéed Spinach Simple and garlicky, it adds color and nutrients.
7. Roasted Carrots Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely.
8. Crispy Tofu Adds a crunchy, protein-rich component.
9. Cornbread A sweet and savory bread that complements the dish’s flavors.
10. Wild Rice Pilaf A perfect side dish that offers a nutty flavor and chewy texture, rounding out the meal.

How To Serve?

• Warm and Fresh: The best way to add texture and flavor, serve the scalloped potatoes warm right out of the oven.
• Garnish Wisely: Sprinkle fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or green onions on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Add Crunch: Add crispy bread, crackers, or a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs for added texture.
• Pair with Protein: To complete the meal, serve alongside a vegan protein such as lentil patties, grilled tofu, or a bean salad.
• Complement with Veggies: Accompany with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables for a balanced plate.
• Offer Sauces: Provide a small bowl of vegan gravy or a creamy sauce for guests to add.
• Choose the Right Plateware: Use a large, shallow dish to showcase the layers and make serving easier.
• Prepare for Leftovers: If there are leftovers, they reheat well, so assure guests they can enjoy the dish the next day, too.

Quick Tip: To ensure evenly cooked vegan scalloped potatoes, slice them as uniformly as possible. A mandoline slicer is a great tool for this task.

Storage & Make Ahead 

• Storage: Cool the dish completely before covering and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the dish without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Remove from the fridge 30 minutes before baking to bring to room temperature, then bake as directed, possibly adding extra time.

Fact: Vegan scalloped potatoes often use nutritional yeast, a staple in plant-based cooking, to mimic the cheesy flavor without dairy, adding a nutritional boost and savory depth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Vegan Scalloped Potatoes Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare vegan scalloped potatoes ahead of time. Assemble the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before you bake it.

You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time when ready to cook since you’re starting from a colder temperature. This makes it a great dish for holidays or dinner parties where oven space and time are at a premium.

What Can I Use Instead Of Cashews For The Creamy Sauce?

There are several alternatives for those allergic to cashews or looking for a nut-free option. One popular choice is to use boiled and blended cauliflower or white beans as the base for the creamy sauce.

These alternatives still provide a smooth texture and can be flavored similarly with nutritional yeast, garlic, and onion for a cheesy vegan taste. Another option is to use commercially available vegan cream or cheese substitutes designed for cooking.

How Can I Thicken The Sauce If It’s Too Runny?

If the sauce for your vegan scalloped potatoes turns out to be too runny, there are a few quick fixes. One method is to blend in more soaked cashews or a tablespoon of cornstarch or arrowroot powder dissolved in a little water before adding it to the sauce.

Another method is to simmer the sauce for a few minutes on the stove, allowing it to reduce and thicken before layering it with the potatoes.

Can Vegan Scalloped Potatoes Be Frozen?

Yes, vegan scalloped potatoes can be frozen, although the texture may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, cool the dish completely,

then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven, covered, at 350°F until heated through. A splash of non-dairy milk before reheating can help restore some of the creaminess.

How Can I Add More Protein To This Dish?

To increase the protein content of vegan scalloped potatoes, consider adding layers of protein-rich ingredients between the potato layers.

Options include thinly sliced tofu, tempeh, or a layer of cooked lentils. These additions boost the protein content and add interesting textures and flavors to the dish. Another simple method is to serve the scalloped potatoes with a side of quinoa or a hearty bean salad.