There’s an unmistakable charm to cozy, homemade dishes that warm both the soul and the stomach, and these Dairy Free Scalloped Potatoes are the perfect embodiment of that comfort. I first made these creamy, irresistible stacks of potato goodness on a chilly evening, inspired by a need to share something special with friends who were visiting. As soon as the aroma of thyme and buttery layers wafted through the house, I knew I had hit the jackpot.
Not only do these scalloped potatoes boast incredible flavor, but they also prove that you don’t need dairy to achieve that rich, creamy texture we all crave. Perfect for gatherings or simply a wholesome weeknight dinner, this recipe rekindles the joy of sharing delicious food without the fuss. Join me in creating a dish that’s not only easy to whip up but also a crowd-pleaser that even the non-vegan crowd will adore. Let’s dive into this comforting journey of ingredients and flavors that scream home-cooked love!
Why are Dairy Free Scalloped Potatoes a must-try?
Comforting layers: These Dairy Free Scalloped Potatoes deliver rich, creamy goodness without any dairy, opening the door for everyone to indulge.
Quick prep: Their straightforward preparation means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying delicious moments with loved ones.
Flavorsome delight: With earthy thyme and velvety sauce, every bite is bursting with flavor that’s hard to resist.
Versatile side dish: Ideal for any gathering, they pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes, making them a go-to favorite.
Crowd-pleasing appeal: Even non-vegans will rave about these scalloped potatoes, proving that home cooking can be both wholesome and delightful!
Dairy Free Scalloped Potatoes Ingredients
For the Casserole
• 6 cups russet potatoes – peeled and sliced for a hearty texture in every bite.
• 4 Tbsp dairy free butter – ensures a rich, buttery flavor without the dairy.
• 3 cups dairy-free milk – unsweetened, providing creamy consistency that complements the potatoes.
• 1 1/2 tsp salt – enhances the flavors and balances the richness.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper – adds a warm, subtle kick to the dish.
• 1 Tbsp dairy free butter – extra for greasing the casserole dish, helping to prevent sticking.
• 1 Tbsp fresh thyme – imparts aromatic freshness to your Dairy Free Scalloped Potatoes.
For the Sauce
• 4 Tbsp flour – acts as a thickening agent for a luscious sauce that clings to each potato layer.
How to Make Dairy Free Scalloped Potatoes
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350℉. This ensures it’s at the perfect temperature for baking those delicious layers of potato goodness.
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Slice the Potatoes: Rinse, peel, and thinly slice the russet potatoes. As you work, place them in a large bowl of cool water to prevent browning. This will keep them fresh until you’re ready to assemble.
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Melt the Butter: In a large saucepan, melt the dairy free butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and stir constantly for a few minutes, forming a smooth paste.
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Make the Sauce: Pour in the dairy-free milk gradually while stirring. Bring this mixture to a low boil, then reduce the heat to medium. Continue to cook and stir for about 10 to 15 minutes until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. Lastly, stir in the salt and black pepper for added flavor.
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Assemble the Casserole: Grease your 9″ x 13″ casserole dish (or two smaller dishes) with the remaining dairy free butter. Layer the potato slices, overlapping them in a staggered arrangement for even cooking and flavor distribution.
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Pour the Sauce: Carefully pour the creamy sauce over the arranged potatoes, ensuring every slice is well-coated. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil, and bake for 30 minutes.
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Finish Baking: After 30 minutes, remove the lid and bake for another hour. This step allows the edges to get a little crispy while keeping the insides wonderfully creamy.
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Add the Thyme: Once cooked, take the casserole out of the oven and sprinkle fresh thyme on top, giving a fragrant finish. Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes; this resting time helps the sauce thicken and makes slicing easier.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of extra thyme or a dash of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Dairy Free Scalloped Potatoes Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your layers of goodness, making these Dairy Free Scalloped Potatoes your own.
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Sweet Potato: Substitute half the russets with sweet potatoes for a delightful twist on sweetness and nutrition. The natural sugars will bring an enticing flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
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Cheesy Flavor: Add nutritional yeast or your favorite dairy-free cheese to the sauce. This will deepen the flavors and mimic that classic cheesy essence, bringing a whole new level of comfort to every bite.
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Herbed Delight: Mix in other fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, or parsley in addition to the thyme. This will elevate the aroma and taste, adding layers of freshness you won’t want to miss.
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Vegan Bacon: Incorporate crumbled vegan bacon between the layers for a savory crunch. This added texture brings a delightful contrast and makes the dish sumptuous and hearty.
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Spicy Kick: Kick up the heat by stirring in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. This spicy addition enhances the overall flavor profile and adds excitement to each serving.
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Veggie Boost: Layer in spinach or kale along with the potato slices for a nutritional boost. Not only will this add beautiful color, but it also amps up the dish’s health factors without sacrificing flavor.
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Creamy Cashew Sauce: For an ultra-creamy version, blend soaked cashews with dairy-free milk instead of the flour for the sauce. This results in an incredibly luscious texture that enhances the comfort factor.
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Smoky Essence: Add a dash of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to your sauce for a hint of smokiness. This version will have your taste buds dancing while providing a unique twist on the traditional flavors.
How to Store and Freeze Dairy Free Scalloped Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact while ensuring freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the scalloped potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350℉ for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture.
Thawing: If frozen, allow the casserole to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results. Enjoy the deliciousness of your Dairy Free Scalloped Potatoes even after storing!
Expert Tips for Dairy Free Scalloped Potatoes
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Choose the Right Potatoes: Use russet potatoes for their starchy texture, which helps create that creamy feel without dairy.
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Prevent Browning: Soaking the sliced potatoes in water while you prepare the sauce keeps them fresh and prevents discoloration.
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Smooth Sauce: Whisk the flour and dairy-free milk together thoroughly to avoid lumps. A smooth sauce is key to enveloping your potatoes perfectly.
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Layering Technique: Stagger the potato slices to ensure even cooking and optimal sauce distribution. This avoids undercooked spots and ensures every bite is flavorful.
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Rest Before Slicing: Allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes after baking. This step helps the sauce thicken and makes it easier to serve perfect wedges of your Dairy Free Scalloped Potatoes.
Make Ahead Options
These Dairy Free Scalloped Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can slice the potatoes and store them in a large bowl of cool water for up to 24 hours to keep them fresh and prevent browning. Additionally, the creamy sauce can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer the potatoes in a greased casserole, pour over the sauce, cover, and bake as directed, adding an extra few minutes if needed to ensure they’re heated through. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality Dairy Free Scalloped Potatoes with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Dairy Free Scalloped Potatoes?
These creamy layers of goodness are delightful on their own but shine even brighter when paired with other dishes!
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Roasted Vegetables: The natural sweetness of roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts balances the creamy potatoes, creating a harmonious plate. Their crispiness complements the soft texture wonderfully.
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Grilled Tofu Steaks: Flavorful and hearty, grilled tofu adds a protein punch that pairs perfectly with the lushness of the potatoes. Marinate it in your favorite sauce for added depth.
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Simple Side Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette brings a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the rich scalloped potatoes.
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Garlic Bread: Golden, crispy garlic bread offers a satisfying crunch, making every bite even more delightful. It’s hard to resist when it’s perched next to those creamy layers!
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Herbed Quinoa: Light and nutritious, herbed quinoa provides a great source of protein and fiber. The fluffiness of the quinoa wonderfully complements the creamy richness of the dish.
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Light White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc enhances the experience, its crisp acidity cutting through the richness of the scalloped potatoes.
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Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, this velvety, dairy-free treat offers a luscious finish that feels indulgent yet healthy, perfectly rounding out your meal.
Dairy Free Scalloped Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes are best for Dairy Free Scalloped Potatoes?
Absolutely, I recommend using russet potatoes! Their higher starch content helps create that desired creamy texture without dairy. They hold their shape well while baking, giving you those perfect tender layers every time.
How should I store leftover Dairy Free Scalloped Potatoes?
For sure! Just place your leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help preserve the rich flavors and keep them fresh for your next meal.
Can I freeze Dairy Free Scalloped Potatoes?
Yes, definitely! To freeze, ensure the casserole has completely cooled down. Then, carefully wrap it in plastic wrap or transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain its creaminess.
What should I do if my sauce is lumpy?
If you notice lumps in your sauce, no need to worry! Simply use an immersion blender to blend it until smooth. If you don’t have one, transferring it to a regular blender works well too. Blend until creamy, then pour it back into the saucepan, heat gently, and continue with the recipe!
Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Very much so! This recipe is free from dairy, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. However, be sure to check the labels on your dairy-free butter and milk, as some brands may have additional ingredients that could trigger allergies. If you’re making this for others, it’s wise to confirm that all ingredients meet their dietary needs.
How do I know when my Dairy Free Scalloped Potatoes are done baking?
Great question! You’ll want to look for a golden-brown top with bubbling edges. After the initial baking time, remove the cover and let them bake until they’re crispy on top, which typically takes about 1 hour. Allowing them to rest for about 10 minutes after baking is also key; it lets the sauce thicken properly for those perfect slices!
Creamy Dairy Free Scalloped Potatoes for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the Oven to 350℉.
- Rinse, peel, and slice the russet potatoes. Place them in a bowl of cool water.
- In a saucepan, melt dairy free butter over medium heat. Add flour and stir to form a smooth paste.
- Gradually add dairy-free milk while stirring. Bring to a low boil, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes until thickened. Stir in salt and black pepper.
- Grease your casserole dish with dairy free butter. Layer the potato slices in a staggered arrangement.
- Pour the sauce over the potatoes, cover with lid or aluminum foil, and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the cover and bake for an additional hour until edges are crispy.
- Sprinkle fresh thyme on top after baking and allow to rest for 10 minutes.