There’s a certain joy that fills the kitchen when the oven is about to work its magic, especially when you can indulge in a classic dish with a plant-based twist. As I prepped my Vegan Cordon Bleu for dinner the other night, the sizzle of breadcrumbs hitting the hot oil brought an exciting anticipation into the air. This recipe is a delightful nod to the traditional version, marrying tender layers of seitan, dairy-free cheese, and savory deli slices into a crunchy golden masterpiece.
Perfect for cozy family dinners or when you’re looking to impress guests, this elegant Cordon Bleu is surprisingly simple to prepare, ready in just 45 minutes. With each bite, you’ll experience a wonderful contrast of flavors and textures—everyone, from seasoned chefs to fast-food weary friends, will be asking for the recipe. So, roll up your sleeves and join me in creating this delicious indulgence that’s not only plant-based but also undeniably crowd-pleasing!
Why is this Plant-Based Cordon Bleu irresistible?
Simplicity for Everyone: This elegant recipe is remarkably easy to prepare, making it perfect for both kitchen novices and experienced chefs alike.
Savory Layers: The combination of seitan, creamy vegan cheese, and flavorful deli slices brings a depth of taste that rivals traditional versions.
Crispy Perfection: The Panko breadcrumbs create a crunchy exterior that enhances the delightful textures inside.
Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish at dinner parties, and watch as it becomes the star of the table!
Versatile Ingredient Swaps: Customize it effortlessly by swapping in different plant-based proteins or vegan cheeses, keeping every experience fresh.
Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 45 minutes, you can enjoy a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
This Plant-Based Cordon Bleu is not just a dish; it’s an experience that will delight and impress your guests!
Plant-Based Cordon Bleu Ingredients
For the Filling
- Gardein’s Chick’n Scallopini – A fantastic plant-based chicken alternative that serves as the main protein; substitute with firm tofu or seitan if needed.
- Tofurky slices (ham) – These add a savory flavor reminiscent of traditional ham; if unavailable, any other vegan deli slice will work nicely.
- Vegan Swiss Cheese (Daiya) – This gives a creamy richness and an authentic cheese flavor; feel free to use any melty vegan cheese you prefer.
For the Coating
- Vegan Mayonnaise – Essential for binding and enhancing flavor; silken tofu blended till smooth can be a lighter alternative.
- Dijon Mustard – Provides tanginess and depth; yellow mustard can substitute if Dijon is out of reach.
- Just Egg – A great vegan egg wash that helps the breadcrumbs adhere; try a mixture of ground flaxseed and water or aquafaba for a homemade option.
- Panko Breadcrumbs – These deliver a delightful crunch on the outside; regular breadcrumbs can be used but may alter the texture.
For Baking
- Oil Spray – Gives a light mist for extra crispiness; olive oil brushed lightly can also work in a pinch.
Embark on your culinary adventure and savor the splendor of this Plant-Based Cordon Bleu!
How to Make Plant-Based Cordon Bleu
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Thaw: Begin by thawing the Gardein’s Chick’n Scallopini overnight in the fridge for solid flavors and easy handling. This ensures each piece is the perfect texture for assembling the dish.
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Preheat: Preheat your oven to 370°F (190°C). This is essential for achieving that golden-brown crispy exterior when baking.
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Layer: Take one piece of chick’n and layer a slice of Tofurky deli slice and a slice of vegan Swiss cheese on top. Now, place another piece of chick’n on top to create a delightful filling sandwich!
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Mix: In a small bowl, combine your vegan mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Brush this mixture onto both sides of each layered chick’n sandwich to infuse them with lovely flavors.
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Coat: Dip each side of the layered sandwich into the Just Egg mixture, ensuring every bit is coated thoroughly. This step will help the breadcrumbs stick!
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Breadcrumb: Roll the coated chick’n in Panko breadcrumbs until fully covered. This will give your Cordon Bleu a wonderfully crunchy texture when baked.
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Prepare Baking Sheet: Place the coated Cordon Bleu on a prepared baking sheet. If the layers look unstable, you can secure them with toothpicks and give a light spray of oil for added crisp.
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Bake: Bake for 20 minutes, then carefully flip and bake for another 15 minutes or until the exterior is a beautiful golden brown and crispy.
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Serve: Once done, serve hot and pair with extra vegan mayo and Dijon mustard on the side for dipping or drizzling.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Plant-Based Cordon Bleu?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement the rich and crispy Cordon Bleu.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture offers a comforting balance to the crunchiness of the Cordon Bleu.
- Fresh Green Salad: A vibrant salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing zing to contrast the indulgence of the main dish.
- Steamed Asparagus: The bright, slightly earthy flavor enhances the overall meal while providing a tender bite.
- Garlicky Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their caramelization paired with garlic provides a savory richness that complements the unique flavors in the Cordon Bleu.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty, fluffy quinoa dish with herbs can bring an exciting texture and nutritional benefit, making for a wholesome meal.
- Vegan Mac and Cheese: A creamy, dreamy side that pairs beautifully with the crispy layers, satisfying any comfort food cravings.
- Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc offers a crisp, refreshing sip that cuts through the richness of the dish without overwhelming it.
- Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Finish the meal with a rich, yet healthy dessert that echoes the elegance of your main course while keeping it plant-based.
- Baked Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and crunch from the fries harmonize with the savory notes of the Cordon Bleu, making for a delightful pairing.
- Zucchini Noodles: Light and fresh, these will keep your plate balanced while still adding an enjoyable twist.
Delicious Plant-Based Cordon Bleu Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free breading alternative to panko, ensuring everyone can enjoy a crispy experience.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to your breadcrumb mixture for a zesty heat that complements the dish beautifully. Spice lovers will adore this twist.
- Herb-Infused: Mix dried herbs like oregano and thyme into the breadcrumb coating for a fragrant flavor boost that adds depth to each bite.
- Creamy Spinach: Incorporate sautéed spinach and vegan cream cheese into the filling for an extra dose of veggies and indulgence—perfect for a satisfying twist!
- Smoky Flavor: Use smokey vegan deli slices or add a dash of liquid smoke to the filling for a deliciously unique flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Cheese Lovers: Experiment with a blend of different vegan cheeses, like pepper jack or cheddar, to create a layered taste explosion that cheese fans will love. Each bite offers something new!
- Sweet Potato Delight: Swap the seitan for mashed sweet potato for a naturally sweet take, while still maintaining that delightful creaminess with the cheese.
- Mediterranean Twist: Fill with sun-dried tomatoes and olives, then use a sprinkle of za’atar in the breadcrumb mixture for a Mediterranean-inspired experience. Each layer unfolds into a delicious journey.
Embrace these variations and make each meal a new adventure, showing just how flexible and satisfying plant-based cuisine can be!
How to Store and Freeze Plant-Based Cordon Bleu
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the dish’s texture and flavor while keeping it fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked Plant-Based Cordon Bleu. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 370°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes, until hot and crispy. For best results, reheat baked leftovers in the oven rather than the microwave.
Preparation Tip: Consider preparing extra Cordon Bleu to freeze in advance, so you have a delightful meal ready to go when cravings strike!
Expert Tips for Plant-Based Cordon Bleu
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Thaw Completely: Ensure the chick’n is fully thawed before assembling. This helps the coatings adhere better for a perfect crispy finish.
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Crispy Coating: Lightly spray the coated chick’n with oil before baking. This extra step is key to achieving that delicious, golden, crunchy texture.
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Stabilize Layers: If your layers seem too thick or unstable, use toothpicks to secure them and prevent any spills during baking.
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Keep it Fresh: For varied flavors, try adding fresh herbs or spices to your breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each Plant-Based Cordon Bleu is a new culinary adventure.
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Check for Doneness: Baking times can vary, so keep an eye on the Cordon Bleu towards the end of cooking to avoid over-browning.
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Serve While Hot: This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, keeping the textures delightful and the flavors vibrant!
Make Ahead Options
These Plant-Based Cordon Bleu are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can assemble the layered chick’n, vegan cheese, and Tofurky slices up to 24 hours in advance, all wrapped tightly in the refrigerator to preserve freshness. Additionally, pre-mix the vegan mayo and Dijon mustard, storing them separately. When you’re ready to serve, simply coat the assembled Cordon Bleu in the Just Egg mixture and Panko breadcrumbs, then bake them in the oven. This approach ensures restaurant-quality results, allowing you to enjoy an elegant meal with minimal effort on a busy weeknight! Just remember, to maintain that delightful crunch, bake them fresh rather than refrigerate after coating.
Plant-Based Cordon Bleu Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ingredients for my Plant-Based Cordon Bleu?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in your Plant-Based Cordon Bleu, make sure to select firm and fresh Gardein’s Chick’n Scallopini or high-quality tofu. Look for vegan Swiss cheese that melts well for that creamy, delightful inner layer. Check the deli slices to ensure they have a savory profile that complements the other ingredients. If you see dark spots or unusual texture on your tofu, it’s best to avoid those!
What is the best way to store leftovers of my Plant-Based Cordon Bleu?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps keep the dish fresh and maintain its delightful crunch. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing; this will prevent condensation and sogginess.
Can I freeze my Plant-Based Cordon Bleu? How do I do it properly?
Yes! I often freeze unbaked Plant-Based Cordon Bleu for a quick meal later. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. You can store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, preheat your oven to 370°F (190°C) and bake from frozen for about 30-35 minutes, ensuring it’s cooked through and crispy!
What steps can I take if my breadcrumbs aren’t sticking well during preparation?
To improve adhesion, make sure the Gardein’s Chick’n is fully thawed and moist when you apply the vegan mayo and Dijon mustard mixture. Additionally, thoroughly coat each side with the Just Egg mixture to create a good base for the breadcrumbs. If you still find them sliding off, you can try pressing the breadcrumbs onto the chick’n gently or letting the assembled Cordon Bleu sit for a few minutes before baking to form a better bond.
Are there any common allergens I should be aware of in this recipe?
Yes, this Plant-Based Cordon Bleu contains some common allergens such as soy (in tofu and Gardein), and potentially gluten (in panko breadcrumbs). Always check the labels for any specific allergy concerns, and feel free to swap out ingredients according to your dietary restrictions—like using gluten-free breadcrumbs if necessary!
Can my Plant-Based Cordon Bleu be safe for pets?
No, it’s best to keep this dish away from pets. Ingredients like garlic and onion powder commonly used in store-bought vegan products can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always check the ingredient list and ask your vet if you have concerns about any specific items!
Delicious Plant-Based Cordon Bleu That Will Wow Everyone
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Thaw the Gardein's Chick’n Scallopini overnight in the fridge.
- Preheat your oven to 370°F (190°C).
- Take one piece of chick’n, layer a slice of Tofurky and a slice of vegan Swiss cheese on top, then place another piece of chick’n on top.
- In a small bowl, combine vegan mayonnaise and Dijon mustard, and brush onto both sides of the layered chick’n sandwich.
- Dip each side of the layered sandwich into the Just Egg mixture.
- Roll the coated chick’n in Panko breadcrumbs until fully covered.
- Place the coated Cordon Bleu on a prepared baking sheet, securing layers with toothpicks if needed, and spraying lightly with oil.
- Bake for 20 minutes, then carefully flip and bake for another 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve hot with extra vegan mayo and Dijon mustard on the side.