Description
Easy Scalloped Corn is a cozy and creamy side dish combining smoky turkey bacon, luscious plant-based cheese, and sweet corn in a flavorful, warm sauce. Perfect for any season, this quick and comforting recipe offers a delicious blend of textures and smoky charm, ideal for pairing with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or baked tofu.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh sweet corn kernels (or thawed frozen corn)
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, finely chopped
- 1 cup plant-based cheese, shredded
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp plant-based butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
- 1 1/2 cups plant-based milk
- 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tsp natural gelling agent (such as agar or pectin)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Finely chop the smoked turkey bacon, dice the onion, and mince the garlic. Measure the corn kernels and have the plant-based milk and shredded cheese ready to ensure a smooth cooking process.
- Cook the Bacon and Aromatics: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the smoked turkey bacon until crisp. Remove and set aside. In the rendered fat, sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant, creating a savory base.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the plant-based butter and whisk in the flour to form a roux. Gradually add the plant-based milk while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), salt, pepper, and the natural gelling agent, stirring until the sauce thickens smoothly.
- Combine Corn and Sauce: Stir the fresh corn kernels, crispy smoked turkey bacon, and sautéed aromatics into the creamy sauce. Mix in the plant-based cheese until melted and evenly incorporated, creating a luscious texture.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top, developing a caramelized finish and melding the flavors beautifully.
Notes
- Fresh or properly thawed frozen corn can be used based on availability.
- Cooking the flour and butter roux ensures a smooth and thickened sauce without grittiness.
- Allow the dish to rest before serving to help the sauce settle and enhance flavors.
- Choose quality plant-based cheese for the best melty, creamy texture.
- Adjust the amount of smoked turkey bacon to modify the smokiness to your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: scalloped corn, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, creamy side dish, gluten-free, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, baked corn casserole
