Name: Quinoa Broccoli and Cheese Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 cups quinoa (uncooked); 1/2 large yellow onion (diced); 6 cups chopped broccoli florets; 2 teaspoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup vegetable broth; 1.5 cups 2% milk (or any kind of milk); 6 oz. sharp white cheddar cheese (freshly grated); 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; ¼ cup hemp hearts; 3 tablespoons panko bread crumbs; 2 oz. sharp white cheddar cheese (freshly grated); 1 teaspoon olive oil

Print Recipe· 4.1 from 10 reviews

If you’re searching for a deliciously comforting yet nutritious meal, this Quinoa Broccoli and Cheese Casserole Recipe has everything you could want and more. It’s the perfect combination of fluffy quinoa, tender broccoli, and ooey-gooey sharp white cheddar that melts together into a cozy, satisfying dish. Every bite strikes a balance of wholesome texture and cheesy richness, making it an ideal dinner option for busy weeknights or weekend family meals. Plus, it’s packed with vibrant colors and goodness, so you feel great about indulging in this casserole. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become one of your go-to favorites when you want something hearty and healthy to share with loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white rectangular baking dish is shown from above, sitting on a white marbled surface. Inside the dish, there is one layer of small, light tan quinoa seeds spread evenly across the bottom. On top of the quinoa, there is a layer of fresh broccoli florets, bright green with a mix of dark and light shades, scattered loosely to cover the quinoa below. The broccoli pieces have small stems and dense, textured tops. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe uses straightforward, accessible ingredients, each chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and nourishment. From the hearty quinoa to the fresh broccoli and bold cheddar, every element plays an essential role in creating a casserole that’s both comforting and wholesome.

1.5 cups quinoa (uncooked): The star grain that provides a fluffy, protein-packed base with a slight nutty flavor.
1/2 large yellow onion (diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth that makes the casserole comforting and flavorful.
6 cups chopped broccoli florets: Provides vibrant color and a pleasant crisp-tender texture when baked.
2 teaspoons olive oil: Used to sauté the garlic and coat the baking dish, enhancing richness without overpowering.
3 cloves garlic (minced): Amoong the essential aromatics, garlic boosts the savory profile with a gentle kick.
1 cup vegetable broth: Contributes moisture and a subtle savory base to the casserole’s creamy sauce.
1.5 cups 2% milk (or any kind of milk): Creates a luscious, creamy texture that brings all ingredients together.
6 oz. sharp white cheddar cheese (freshly grated): Melts into the sauce for rich, tangy flavor that makes this casserole truly irresistible.
1/2 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances and balances the natural flavors of the entire dish.
¼ cup hemp hearts: Adds a subtle nutty crunch and a boost of nutrition to the topping.
3 tablespoons panko bread crumbs: Creates the perfect crispy topping texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole.
2 oz. sharp white cheddar cheese (freshly grated): Mixed into the topping for extra cheesy goodness and golden color.
1 teaspoon olive oil: Binds the topping ingredients and helps them crisp nicely under the broiler.

How to Make Quinoa Broccoli and Cheese Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Layer the Base

Start by preheating your oven to 375ºF and lightly spraying your casserole dish with olive oil. This step ensures your casserole won’t stick, while adding a bit of richness. Next, layer the uncooked quinoa, diced onion, and broccoli florets evenly on the bottom of the dish. This layering allows the quinoa to cook in all the flavorful ingredients and the broccoli to stay tender yet slightly crisp.

Step 2: Create the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, warm the olive oil over medium-high heat, then add minced garlic. When the kitchen fills with that irresistible garlicky aroma, carefully pour in the milk, vegetable broth, and sprinkle in sea salt. Gently whisk this mixture as it heats to a comforting warmth—not boiling. Once hot, remove the pan from the heat and gradually whisk in the 6 ounces of freshly grated sharp white cheddar cheese. This luscious blend will be the creamy bed that binds the casserole together.

Step 3: Combine and Bake Covered

Pour the cheesy sauce over the quinoa, onion, and broccoli in your casserole dish. Use a spoon to stir everything together lightly so the sauce evenly distributes through all the layers. Cover the dish tightly with a lid or foil, then place it in your preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes to allow the quinoa to absorb the liquids and plump up beautifully alongside the veggies.

Step 4: Stir and Continue Baking Uncovered

After the initial baking time, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Give it a gentle stir to redistribute the ingredients and ensure even cooking. Return it to the oven uncovered and bake for another 20 minutes, letting the top begin to set and the flavors marry even more deeply.

Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping and Broil

While the casserole finishes baking, combine hemp hearts, panko bread crumbs, 2 ounces of sharp white cheddar cheese, and 1 teaspoon olive oil in a small bowl. Mix until you form an even crumble. Once the uncovered baking is finished, spread this topping evenly over the casserole’s surface. Switch your oven setting to broil and place the dish under the broiler just until the topping turns a crispy, golden brown—this only takes a few minutes, so keep a close eye on it!

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes. This brief rest lets the cheese sauce thicken slightly, making serving easier and the flavors more harmonious. Now your Quinoa Broccoli and Cheese Casserole Recipe is ready to delight everyone at the table.

How to Serve Quinoa Broccoli and Cheese Casserole Recipe

This image shows a white baking dish filled with a baked dish that has three visible layers: a bottom layer of cooked quinoa with a pale beige color and grainy texture, a middle layer of roasted green broccoli with some browned tips, and a top layer of melted cheese that is creamy white and slightly browned in spots. A woman's hand is holding a gold spoon that lifts a portion of the dish, showing all three layers clearly, with the broccoli pieces on top covered lightly in melted cheese. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with a soft, neutral background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives on top right before serving brings a lively pop of green that contrasts beautifully with the golden cheese topping. You might also consider a light dusting of smoked paprika for a mild smoky warmth and extra color appeal.

Side Dishes

Since this casserole is hearty and filling, pair it with light, crisp sides like a fresh garden salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or simple sliced tomatoes with a drizzle of olive oil and a dash of salt. A bowl of homemade vegetable soup can also complement the wholesome vibe of this dish, perfect for a cozy meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in small ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets and broil the topping right before serving. This makes for a beautiful presentation at dinner parties or family holidays. Alternatively, scoop into colorful bowls and garnish with a lemon wedge for a fresh zest that cuts through the rich cheese wonderfully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This casserole keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to preserve moisture and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply warm up individual portions for a quick and comforting meal.

Freezing

The Quinoa Broccoli and Cheese Casserole Recipe freezes well, making it a great candidate for batch cooking. Freeze the casserole in a tightly sealed container or wrap the dish well with foil and plastic wrap. When freezing, consider leaving off the topping, then add fresh crumbs and cheese topping after thawing before broiling for optimal texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through, about 20 minutes depending on portion size. For single servings, a microwave works well—just cover loosely to maintain moisture. For that crispy topping, broil for a minute or two after reheating and keep a close watch to avoid burning.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?

Absolutely! While broccoli is classic here, you can swap in cauliflower, spinach, or even asparagus depending on what you have on hand or prefer. Adjust cooking times slightly to accommodate the different textures and moisture levels.

Is quinoa pre-cooked before baking in this recipe?

In this recipe, the quinoa cooks in the casserole dish itself as it bakes, absorbing the liquids and flavors. This method keeps prep easy and guarantees perfect texture without pre-cooking.

Can I make this casserole vegan?

Yes! Substitute the milk with plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk, use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for the cheesy flavor, and make sure the panko bread crumbs are vegan-friendly. You can also swap out olive oil for vegan butter if desired.

How spicy is the Quinoa Broccoli and Cheese Casserole Recipe?

This casserole isn’t spicy at all—it’s mild, creamy, and cheesy, making it approachable for all taste buds, including kids. Of course, you can always add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce if you want a little heat.

What does hemp hearts add to the casserole?

Hemp hearts bring a subtle nutty flavor and a delightful crunch to the topping, while also boosting the protein and healthy fat content. They’re a simple way to increase the nutritional value without changing the taste dramatically.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Quinoa Broccoli and Cheese Casserole Recipe enough. It’s such a wonderful combination of flavors, textures, and wholesome ingredients that make every spoonful comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this casserole is a keeper that’s sure to bring smiles all around the table. Give it a try and watch it quickly become one of your favorite dishes to make and share!