Quinoa and Black Bean Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Quinoa and Black Bean Casserole is a hearty, wholesome dish that’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Packed with protein and vibrant flavors, it’s easy to make and can be customized to your taste. Enjoy a warm, comforting meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 cup corn, fresh or frozen
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is tender and liquid is absorbed.
3. Step 3: While the quinoa cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
4. Step 4: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Step 5: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sautéed onion and garlic, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
6. Step 6: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. If using, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
7. Step 7: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Step 8: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

• For added flavor, try mixing in some chopped green chilies or a dash of smoked paprika.
• Use different types of cheese such as pepper jack or cheddar for varied taste.
• Swap vegetable broth for chicken broth if you’re not vegetarian to enrich the flavor.
• Add chopped bell peppers or zucchini for extra veggies and color.
• If you prefer a vegan dish, simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish also freezes well; freeze in portions for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?

Yes, you can substitute quinoa with brown rice, couscous, or bulgur, but cooking times and liquid amounts may vary.

Is this casserole spicy?

The recipe uses mild chili powder and cumin, which adds warmth without strong heat. Adjust the spices or add fresh chili peppers if you want more spice.

Quinoa and Black Bean Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 116 reviews

A nutritious and flavorful Quinoa and Black Bean Casserole packed with protein-rich quinoa, black beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, baked to perfection with an optional cheesy topping. This hearty dish is perfect as a wholesome vegetarian main or side, offering a delicious blend of textures and comforting warmth.

• Author: Isla
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Toppings & Garnish

• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional for topping)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
2. Cook Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
3. Sauté Aromatics: While the quinoa cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sautéed onion and garlic, black beans, diced tomatoes with their juices, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to blend flavors evenly.
5. Prepare Casserole Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish and transfer the quinoa mixture into it. If desired, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top to add a rich, melty layer.
6. Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and ingredients to heat through.
7. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired for a fresh, herbal touch.

Notes

• Rinsing the quinoa removes its natural bitterness for better flavor.
• You can use fresh or frozen corn depending on what you have available.
• The cheese topping is optional; omit for a vegan or dairy-free version.
• For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños along with the chili powder.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: quinoa casserole, black bean casserole, vegetarian casserole, baked quinoa recipe, healthy casserole, quinoa and beans, easy casserole dinner