Best Vegan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a creamy, comforting, and utterly satisfying dish that fits perfectly into a plant-based lifestyle, let me introduce you to the Best Vegan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe. This recipe transforms humble Yukon Gold potatoes into layers of melt-in-your-mouth goodness, all without a speck of dairy or oil. Thanks to the magic of cashews, nutritional yeast, and a few seasonings, you’ll get a luscious, cheesy sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Easy to whip up and ready in under an hour, it’s the comfort food you didn’t know you needed on your dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These straightforward ingredients are the backbone of this dish, each thoughtfully chosen to create the perfect balance of taste, texture, and that golden color you crave. Simple but essential, every element combines to give you creamy layers and robust flavors in every bite.

• 2 lb Yukon Gold potatoes: Their creamy texture and natural buttery flavor make them ideal for scalloped potatoes without needing to peel.
• 6-8 slices vegan pepper jack cheese (optional): Adds a melty, spicy kick for those who want an extra cheesy layer (feel free to omit for a whole food plant-based version).
• Fresh dill or chives for garnish: Brightens the dish and adds a lovely herbal touch at the end.
• 1.75 cups water: The liquid base to blend into the creamy sauce.
• 3/4 cup raw cashews: Soaked then blended into a rich, silky foundation for the dairy-free sauce.
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast: Gives the sauce a savory, cheesy flavor that’s essential for that scalloped potato feel.
• 3 tsp onion powder: Layered savory depth that complements the potatoes beautifully.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a mellow and aromatic bite without overpowering.
• 1 tsp sea salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the natural taste of all ingredients.
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: A subtle smoky undertone that elevates the savory cream sauce.

How to Make Best Vegan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes

Start by giving your Yukon Gold potatoes a good scrubbing to keep their skins intact, which add fiber and a lovely rustic texture. If you decide to use russet potatoes instead, be sure to peel them first for the best texture. Using a mandoline slicer, slice the potatoes into about 1/8-inch thick rounds. This thickness is key—thin enough to cook evenly but thick enough to maintain some bite.

Step 2: Layering the Potatoes

Place the potato slices into a lightly oiled 8×10 baking dish. If you prefer to keep it oil-free and whole food plant-based, line the dish with parchment paper or use a seasoned cast iron pan. Spread the slices evenly, then sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt and fresh black pepper to develop flavor right in the layers.

Step 3: Crafting the Cream Sauce

Next up is the creamy part that’s the heart of the Best Vegan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe. In a high-powered blender, combine the soaked raw cashews, water, nutritional yeast, onion powder, garlic powder, sea salt, and smoked paprika. Blend until silky smooth and luxuriously creamy. Pour this golden sauce evenly over the layered potatoes, ensuring each slice gets coated.

Step 4: Adding Vegan Cheese (Optional)

If you want to add that extra indulgence, place slices of vegan pepper jack cheese on top for a melty, flavorful finish. We love Follow Your Heart brand for its meltability and authentic flavor. If you’re keeping it purely whole food plant-based, skip the cheese for a clean, creamy dish.

Step 5: Baking

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F for 35 minutes. Then, increase the temperature to 400°F, remove the foil, and bake for another 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. For a crispier top, you can bake uncovered during the last 10 minutes. Just keep an eye to avoid overcooking.

How to Serve Best Vegan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

Finish your dish with a sprinkle of fresh dill, thyme, or chives. These fresh herbs bring a burst of color and a lively contrast to the creamy richness, making your scalloped potatoes both beautiful and refreshing on the palate.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with vibrant green veggies like steamed broccoli or sautéed kale for a balanced meal. Add a hearty lentil loaf or a crisp, tangy salad to round out a wholesome, satisfying dinner that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins or muffin tins to create perfectly portioned mini scalloped potatoes. You can also add toppings like toasted breadcrumbs or crushed nuts for added crunch and texture that will delight your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Best Vegan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe keeps beautifully covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness, then enjoy cold or warmed.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Freeze in a freezer-safe container after baking but before garnishing. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat for a convenient comfort meal anytime.

Reheating

For the best texture after storage, reheat leftovers covered with foil at 350°F until heated through—usually about 20 minutes. You can also microwave single servings, but the oven will bring back that fresh-from-the-oven magic.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Absolutely! Yukon Golds are preferred for their creamy texture and thin skins, but Russets or red potatoes can work too. Just peel if using Russets, and adjust cooking time as needed.

Do I have to soak the cashews?

Soaking the cashews makes blending smoother and the sauce creamier, but if you’re short on time, you can blend raw cashews with hot water to speed up the process.

Is there an oil-free option?

Yes! Simply skip the oil or vegan butter when greasing the baking dish and instead line it with parchment paper or use a well-seasoned cast iron pan to prevent sticking.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Definitely. This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it contains no flour or wheat ingredients, making it safe and delicious for those avoiding gluten.

How spicy is the vegan pepper jack cheese?

The vegan pepper jack cheese adds a mild to moderate kick, but it’s totally optional. If you prefer no spice, simply omit it or swap for a milder vegan cheese.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Best Vegan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe enough for your next cozy night in. It hits all the right notes of creamy, cheesy, and comforting without relying on dairy or oil. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just craving a hearty, wholesome side, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and watch it become your new favorite comfort food!

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