Description
Easy Scalloped Corn is a warm, comforting side dish made with sweet fresh corn kernels enveloped in a creamy plant-based cheese sauce and topped with smoky turkey bacon pieces. This simple recipe combines pantry staples and fresh ingredients into a perfectly balanced mix of rich, sweet, and savory flavors. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, it bakes to a bubbly, golden perfection that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels
- 1 cup plant-based cheese, shredded
- 6 slices turkey bacon, sliced into small pieces
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons plant-based butter
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 1 cup plant-based milk
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Variations and Add-Ins
- Pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper
- Fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives
- Diced bell peppers or zucchini
- Smoked tempeh strips as turkey bacon substitute
Instructions
- Prepare the Turkey Bacon and Aromatics: Slice the turkey bacon into small pieces and sauté in a pan over medium heat until crisp. Remove and set aside. In the same pan with the bacon fat, cook diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent to develop flavor.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Melt plant-based butter in the pan and whisk in all-purpose flour to form a roux. Cook briefly until the roux turns a light golden color. Gradually whisk in plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar, stirring constantly until smooth. Stir in the natural gelling agent and plant-based cheese, cooking gently until the sauce thickens into a luscious, creamy consistency.
- Combine Corn and Sauce: Add the fresh corn kernels, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), salt, and pepper to the sauce. Mix thoroughly to coat the corn evenly and simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with crispy turkey bacon pieces, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until the top is bubbly and lightly golden. This final step adds a delightful baked texture while keeping the inside creamy.
Notes
- Use fresh corn when possible for the best natural sweetness.
- Take time to whisk the roux carefully to avoid lumps and ensure a silky sauce.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more plant-based cheese or reducing liquid for a creamier texture.
- Allow the dish to rest a few minutes after baking so it firms up and is easier to serve.
- Choose a sharp-flavored plant-based cheese to deepen the taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: scalloped corn, plant-based cheese, turkey bacon, side dish, creamy corn, baked corn casserole, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
