Description
This creamy and comforting Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe features layers of thinly sliced starchy potatoes baked in a luscious plant-based cheese sauce, enhanced with smoky turkey bacon pieces and a splash of apple cider vinegar (natural) for balanced depth of flavor. With aromatic onions, garlic, fresh herbs, and a savory vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), this dish delivers rich, tender, and satisfying bites perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Potato Layer
- 4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
Cheese Sauce
- 3 tbsp plant-based butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour alternative)
- 3 cups plant-based milk
- 2 cups plant-based cheese, shredded
- 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 tsp natural gelling agent
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Flavorings and Toppings
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes, then slice them into even, thin rounds to ensure uniform cooking and tenderness.
- Cook the bacon and aromatics: In a skillet, cook smoked turkey bacon pieces until golden and crispy, then set aside. In the same skillet, sauté the finely chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant, absorbing the bacon flavors.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a saucepan, melt the plant-based butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes to avoid a raw flour taste. Slowly add plant-based milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Stir in the plant-based cheese until melted and smooth. Add vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), natural gelling agent, salt, and pepper, mixing thoroughly.
- Layer the dish: Butter a baking dish lightly. Spread a layer of sliced potatoes, followed by some sautéed onions, garlic, and sprinkled bacon pieces. Pour a portion of the cheese sauce evenly on top. Repeat layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with cheese sauce on top. Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary over the final layer.
- Bake to perfection: Cover the dish loosely with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes to brown the top and thicken the sauce around the potatoes.
Notes
- Use a mandoline slicer for thin, uniform potato slices ensuring even cooking.
- Cook the roux thoroughly to avoid raw flour flavor.
- Layer generously with sauce between potatoes to keep the dish moist and flavorful.
- Allow the baked dish to rest for 10 minutes before serving so the sauce can set.
- Use high-quality plant-based cheese for the best creamy, melting texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cheesy scalloped potatoes, plant-based, vegan cheese sauce, smoked turkey bacon, comfort food, gluten free
