Easy Scalloped Potato and Smoked Turkey Stacks Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, this Scalloped Potato and Smoked Turkey Stacks recipe is exactly what you need. Layers of tender thinly sliced potatoes combined with savory smoked turkey and creamy sauce create a harmony of flavors that’s perfect for quick dinners and impressive gatherings alike. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, these stacks offer a delightful twist on classic scalloped potatoes that’s as delicious as it is visually stunning.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Elegance: Layers of potatoes and smoked turkey create a beautiful presentation without complicated steps.
- Rich Flavor: The creamy, cheesy sauce combined with smoky turkey adds depth to traditional scalloped potatoes.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday celebrations where you want to impress without stress.
- Time-Saving: Uses straightforward ingredients that you likely have on hand for fast preparation.
- Adaptable: Easily customized with your favorite herbs, vegetables, or cheese alternatives.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Scalloped Potato and Smoked Turkey Stacks recipe lies in its simplicity and quality of ingredients. Each component enhances the dish’s creamy texture, subtle smokiness, and appealing color, making this an approachable yet flavorful meal.
- Potatoes: Choose starchy or all-purpose potatoes thinly sliced for tender, melt-in-your-mouth layers.
- Smoked Turkey Slices: Adds a smoky, savory punch that perfectly complements the creamy potatoes.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (vegetal): Melts beautifully to create that gooey, irresistible finish.
- Milk or Plant-Based Milk: Builds a smooth, rich sauce that coats every layer evenly.
- Butter or Plant-Based Butter: Adds richness and helps brown the dish to perfection.
- Flour: Creates the thick base for the creamy sauce, binding everything together.
- Garlic and Onion Powder: Elevates the flavor with aromatic notes that complement the potatoes and turkey.
- Fresh Herbs (optional): Parsley or thyme adds freshness and a pop of color.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential to balance and enhance all the flavors in the dish.
Variations for Scalloped Potato and Smoked Turkey Stacks
This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to tailor it according to what you have in your pantry or your dietary preferences. Have fun experimenting with different flavors and textures to make it uniquely yours!
- Veggie Boost: Layer in thin slices of zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and color.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the sauce for warmth and depth.
- Cheese Swap: Use a blend of shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) and sharp cheddar-style vegan cheese for bold flavor.
- Dairy-Free Version: Replace milk and butter with almond milk and a plant-based margarine for a dairy-free meal.
- Herb Infusion: Mix fresh rosemary or sage into the sauce for an earthy, aromatic twist.
How to Make Scalloped Potato and Smoked Turkey Stacks
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and peel your potatoes, then slice them very thinly using a mandoline or a sharp knife. This ensures they cook evenly and stack neatly.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour to create a roux. Slowly add the milk while continuously stirring until the sauce thickens. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Assemble the Stacks
In a greased baking dish or individual ramekins, layer slices of potatoes, followed by smoked turkey slices, then a spoonful of the creamy sauce. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) between the layers to add gooey richness. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 40 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 5: Let It Rest and Serve
Allow the stacks to cool for 5-10 minutes out of the oven so the layers set and stack slices hold better when serving.
Pro Tips for Making Scalloped Potato and Smoked Turkey Stacks
- Slice Evenly: Use a mandoline to get uniformly thin potato slices for even cooking.
- Layering Matters: Make sure each layer has enough sauce and cheese to keep everything moist and flavorful.
- Don’t Rush Baking: Baking covered first locks in moisture, then uncovering allows the top to brown perfectly.
- Let It Rest: Cooling slightly before serving ensures cleaner slices that hold together well.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Adding herbs just before serving brightens the dish with a fresh aroma and look.
How to Serve Scalloped Potato and Smoked Turkey Stacks
Garnishes
Fresh parsley or chopped chives sprinkled over the top add color and a lovely herbal freshness that balances the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables like green beans or asparagus to add lightness and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the stacks in individual ramekins for elegant single portions or present them as one beautiful casserole for family-style dining. Drizzle a small amount of apple cider vinegar reduction or a squeeze of lemon over the top for a tangy contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover scalloped potato and smoked turkey stacks in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently for best texture.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well. Assemble and bake the dish, then allow it to cool completely before wrapping tightly with foil and freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, then uncover to re-crisp the top for 10-15 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a subtle sweetness and pair wonderfully with smoked turkey, though baking times may vary slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for busy weeknights?
Yes, once your ingredients are prepped, assembly is quick and simple, making it a convenient meal for busy evenings.
Can I prepare this dish vegetarian?
Yes, by replacing smoked turkey with sliced mushrooms or a plant-based smoked alternative, you can enjoy a vegetarian twist.
What is the best cheese to use for this recipe?
Shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) works beautifully for melt and stretch, but feel free to mix in other plant-based cheeses for extra flavor.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is preferred for a creamy, smooth texture, but leaving the skins on adds a rustic look and extra fiber if you like.
Final Thoughts
This Scalloped Potato and Smoked Turkey Stacks recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines comfort food classics with a smoky, savory twist. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering, the layers of creamy potatoes and tender smoked turkey are sure to bring smiles at the table. Give it a try—you’ll soon find this dish becoming a favorite in your recipe collection!
