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Cheesy Veggie Quinoa Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 143 reviews

This Cheesy Veggie Quinoa Casserole is a nutritious and flavorful dish combining protein-rich quinoa with vibrant vegetables and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a versatile, comforting casserole perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or meal prep, featuring a blend of broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and savory herbs baked together with a melty mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.

Ingredients

Scale

Grains and Broth

  • 1 cup uncooked quinoa
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

Vegetables

  • 2 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup carrots, diced
  • 1 cup bell peppers, diced (mix of colors)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy and Cheese

  • 1 cup milk or cream (whole milk, 2% or heavy cream for richness)
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil

Thickening and Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or gluten-free alternative like cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)
  • Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or chives

Instructions

  1. Cook the Quinoa: Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine-mesh sieve to remove saponins which can cause bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and 2 cups vegetable broth. Bring to boil, then reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: While the quinoa cooks, heat butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook another minute, careful not to burn.
  3. Add Remaining Vegetables: Add diced carrots and bell peppers to skillet, cooking for 5-7 minutes until they start to soften. Then add broccoli florets and cook for 3-5 minutes more until broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp, retaining some texture.
  4. Create the Cheese Sauce Base: Reduce heat to low, sprinkle flour or cornstarch over vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a light roux which will thicken the sauce.
  5. Add Milk and Cheese: Gradually whisk in milk or cream to avoid lumps. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Remove skillet from heat.
  6. Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in 1½ cups shredded cheese and grated Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. Combine Quinoa and Vegetables: Add cooked quinoa to the skillet with cheesy vegetable mixture. Stir gently to combine evenly, coating quinoa with the sauce.
  8. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour mixture into a greased 9×13 inch oven-safe casserole dish and spread evenly.
  9. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle remaining ½ cup shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
  10. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake casserole for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top and casserole is heated through.
  11. Rest and Garnish: Let casserole rest 5-10 minutes so it sets. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired for a fresh color pop.
  12. Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy a wholesome, cheesy veggie-packed quinoa casserole.

Notes

  • Quinoa is rinsed to remove bitterness from saponins.
  • You can substitute chicken broth for vegetable broth if preferred.
  • Use gluten-free flour alternatives like cornstarch to keep this casserole gluten-free.
  • Cheese varieties such as Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or smoked cheeses can be used for different flavor profiles.
  • Adjust the amount of milk or cream for desired richness and creaminess.
  • Ensure vegetables are cooked to tender-crisp for texture balance.
  • Resting the casserole before serving helps it set and makes portioning easier.
  • Garlic and herbs add depth but can be adjusted or omitted according to preference.
  • This casserole can be prepared ahead, assembled, refrigerated, and baked just before serving.

Keywords: quinoa casserole, cheesy quinoa, veggie casserole, baked quinoa, healthy casserole, vegetarian casserole, gluten-free casserole

Find it online: https://islawhite.com/cheesy-veggie-quinoa-casserole-recipe/