Name: Vegan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons vegan butter-style sticks, such as Earth Balance; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2-1/2 cups unsweetened refrigerated soy milk; 1-1/2 cups shredded dairy-free cheddar-flavored cheese (divided from total 2 cups); 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon minced fresh thyme (optional); 1/4 teaspoon pepper; Dash of ground nutmeg; 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 4 cups); 1/2 cup shredded dairy-free cheddar-flavored cheese (reserved for topping)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 54 reviews

If you have a cozy dinner gathering or just want to treat yourself to something rich and comforting, this Vegan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is absolutely a must-try. Imagine tender, thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a luscious, cheesy plant-based sauce that’s creamy without any dairy in sight. Each bite melts in your mouth with layers of flavor coming from garlic, nutritional yeast, and a fragrant hint of thyme. It’s the perfect hearty dish that brings warmth to the table while being completely vegan—and honestly, it might just become your new go-to comfort food.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. There are three whole potatoes placed near the center, with a clear glass measuring cup filled with cream above them. To the right, a white bowl holds a large pile of shredded orange cheese on parchment paper, set on a wooden tray. Around the potatoes, there are small white bowls containing white flour, cubed butter, minced garlic, salt, and ground pepper. A small round white bowl contains yellow powder, and next to it is a metal grater with some grated nutmeg beside it on a white napkin. The scene is well-lit, showing the textures and colors clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These simple yet essential ingredients come together beautifully to deliver the creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and heartwarming aroma that make this recipe so special. Each item plays a key role in crafting that perfect balance of taste and comfort.

Vegan butter-style sticks: Using a buttery vegan spread like Earth Balance ensures richness and helps create the sauce’s velvety base.
Minced garlic: Adds a delicious aromatic punch that makes the sauce truly savory.
All-purpose flour: The thickening agent that transforms the sauce into that perfect creamy consistency.
Unsweetened refrigerated soy milk: A smooth, neutral base that blends all the flavors while keeping the dish dairy-free.
Shredded dairy-free cheddar-flavored cheese: Key to cheesy flavor, split into two parts for melting and topping layers.
Nutritional yeast: Brings that unmistakable cheesy depth and a boost of savory umami.
Salt: Balances and enhances the overall flavors.
Minced fresh thyme (optional): Adds a fresh herbal touch that elevates the dish without overpowering it.
Pepper: A subtle kick that cuts through the richness.
Dash of ground nutmeg: Provides a warm, cozy note that harmonizes perfectly with the potatoes.
Potatoes: Peeled and thinly sliced, these are the star ingredient, delivering comfy, layered heartiness.

How to Make Vegan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Make the sauce

Start by melting your vegan butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and let it cook until fragrant—just about a minute. This gentle sautéing releases the garlic’s flavors beautifully. Stir in the flour slowly to form a smooth roux, which is the magic that thickens your sauce. Next, whisk in the soy milk little by little to avoid lumps, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring constantly. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in most of the dairy-free cheddar cheese, nutritional yeast, seasoning with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and if you're feeling fancy, some fresh thyme. Let your sauce rest—it’ll thicken even more and get ready to coat those potatoes perfectly.

Step 2: Assemble the potatoes

Lightly grease a 9-inch square baking dish to keep everything from sticking and maintain easy cleanup. Arrange half of your thinly sliced potatoes in the dish, creating a nice even layer. Ladle half of the creamy cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly so every slice gets coated. Then, repeat the process: potatoes, then sauce. This layering is what makes the dish so indulgently rich and beautifully tender throughout.

Step 3: Bake the potatoes

Cover the baking dish and pop it in your preheated 350°F oven. Bake for one hour with the lid on to let the potatoes soften and steam in the luscious sauce. After this time, uncover the dish, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar-flavored cheese on top, and bake for an additional 30 minutes to get that irresistible golden finish. Once done, let your vegan scalloped potatoes rest for 15 minutes—this pause helps the sauce set and makes serving a breeze.

How to Serve Vegan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

The image shows a white square baking dish filled with two layers of thin, pale yellow potato slices, with a smooth, creamy beige sauce being spread on top by a wooden spoon held by a woman's hand. Next to the baking dish, on a white marbled surface, there is a metal colander full of more thin potato slices. The scene is clean and bright, emphasizing the soft texture of the potatoes and the creamy sauce ready to be layered. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes like minced chives or flat-leaf parsley can brighten the look and add a fresh herbal contrast to the dish’s rich flavors. Not only do they make your vegan scalloped potatoes look stunning, but they also boost the taste with an extra layer of freshness that complements the cozy cheese sauce.

Side Dishes

This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or roasted veggies to add some refreshing crunch. For a more indulgent meal, serve alongside vegan meatloaf or a savory mushroom Wellington. The creamy scalloped potatoes offer a comforting base that balances bolder flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider turning this classic into individual servings by using small ramekins. It’s an elegant way to serve at dinner parties or holiday meals. Alternatively, topping the finished dish with toasted breadcrumbs before the final bake adds a delightful crunchy contrast, making the experience even more memorable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover vegan scalloped potatoes keep beautifully covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to cool the dish completely before storing to maintain texture and flavor. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the sauce.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well, making it ideal for batch cooking. Portion the vegan scalloped potatoes into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags and store for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your vegan scalloped potatoes gently in the oven at 325°F until heated through and bubbly. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the top from browning too much, uncover near the end to let the cheese crisp up again if desired. Microwaving works too, but the oven method preserves that lovely texture and flavor best.

FAQs

Can I use a different plant milk instead of soy milk?

Absolutely! Unsweetened almond, oat, or cashew milk can be great substitutes. Just make sure it’s unflavored and unsweetened to keep the savory balance intact.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce. This will still give you that creamy texture without gluten.

Can I add other veggies to the scalloped potatoes?

Definitely! Thinly sliced mushrooms, onions, or even spinach can be layered in for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be mindful of moisture content to keep the sauce from getting too watery.

What’s the best type of potato to use?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes work great because they hold their shape when baked, giving you creamy yet firm slices throughout the dish.

How do I know when the potatoes are fully cooked?

They’re done when a fork slides easily through the potato layers without resistance, and the sauce is bubbly and thickened. The total baking time in the recipe guides you well, but always check at the 90-minute mark just in case.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is truly a celebration of comfort food done right for plant-based eaters and everyone who loves rich, creamy dishes. It’s a wonderful way to bring warmth and flavor to your table with easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps. I can’t wait for you to make it, share it, and enjoy every delightful, cheesy bite with those you love.

Vegan Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need