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Quinoa Broccoli and Cheese Casserole Recipe

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4.1 from 10 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Quinoa Broccoli and Cheese Casserole is a hearty, nutritious dish combining fluffy quinoa, fresh broccoli florets, and sharp white cheddar in a creamy, flavorful sauce. Baked to perfection with a crunchy panko and hemp heart topping, this casserole is a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups quinoa (uncooked)
  • 1/2 large yellow onion (diced)
  • 6 cups chopped broccoli florets

Sauce Ingredients

  • 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

Topping Ingredients

  • ¼ cup hemp hearts
  • 3 tablespoons panko bread crumbs
  • 2 oz. sharp white cheddar cheese (freshly grated)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 375ºF and spray a casserole dish with olive oil to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
  2. Arrange Main Ingredients: Place the uncooked quinoa, diced onion, and chopped broccoli florets evenly at the bottom of the prepared casserole dish and set aside.
  3. Sauté Garlic and Heat Liquid: Heat a saucepan over medium-high heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Once the garlic becomes fragrant, pour in the milk, vegetable broth, and sea salt, gently whisking until the liquid is heated but not boiling.
  4. Add Cheese to Sauce: Remove the saucepan from heat and gradually whisk in 6 oz. of freshly grated sharp white cheddar cheese until it fully melts and creates a smooth, creamy sauce.
  5. Combine Sauce and Casserole Ingredients: Pour the cheese sauce over the quinoa, onion, and broccoli mixture in the casserole dish. Stir gently to combine the ingredients evenly.
  6. Initial Bake: Cover the casserole dish and bake it in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, allowing the quinoa to cook and absorb the flavors.
  7. Stir and Continue Baking: Remove the casserole from the oven, stir the mixture to redistribute ingredients, then bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes to firm up the casserole.
  8. Prepare Topping: While the casserole is baking, combine hemp hearts, panko bread crumbs, 2 oz. of grated cheddar cheese, and 1 teaspoon olive oil in a bowl. Mix until a crumbly topping forms.
  9. Add Topping and Broil: Spread the prepared topping evenly over the casserole. Place the dish under the broiler until the topping turns a golden brown color, giving the casserole a crunchy finish.
  10. Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set before serving.

Notes

  • Using 2% milk keeps the casserole creamy without too much fat; you can substitute with any milk of choice.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts.
  • To add more flavor, consider sprinkling some freshly ground black pepper or nutmeg to the cheese sauce.
  • This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
  • Leftovers store well and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://sarabaking.com/quinoa-broccoli-and-cheese-casserole-recipe/