Let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish: broccoli quinoa casserole! Not only is it packed with nutrition, thanks to the vibrant broccoli and protein-rich quinoa, but it’s also a total lifesaver for meal prep. I whip this up on Sundays, and it fuels my week with delicious, wholesome goodness. The best part? It’s so versatile! You can easily customize it with whatever veggies you have on hand, making it a go-to for busy nights or when I just want something comforting. Trust me, once you take that first cheesy bite, you’ll understand why I can’t get enough of this dish!
Ingredients for Broccoli Quinoa Casserole Recipe
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this broccoli quinoa casserole shine! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup quinoa: This tiny superfood is packed with protein and gives a lovely nutty flavor to the dish. Make sure to rinse it well before cooking to remove any bitterness!
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen, broccoli adds a wonderful crunch and a burst of color. I love using fresh, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen works just fine.
- 1 cup shredded cheese: I usually go for a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for that perfect gooey texture. Feel free to use your favorite cheese or even a plant-based option!
- 2 cups vegetable broth: This is essential for cooking the quinoa and infusing it with flavor. Homemade or store-bought, just make sure it’s low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
- 1 cup milk: I prefer whole milk for richness, but any milk works here. Almond or oat milk can be great for a dairy-free version!
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds fantastic depth to the flavor. I like using yellow onions, but feel free to experiment with red or sweet onions too!
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must for that aromatic kick that makes this casserole so inviting!
- 1 teaspoon salt: This helps to bring out all the flavors. Adjust to taste if you’re using salted broth.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Just a pinch for a bit of warmth. You can add more if you like it spicy!
- 1 teaspoon olive oil: For sautéing the onion and garlic to perfection—don’t skip this step!
Now that you have your ingredients lined up, you’re all set to create this deliciously hearty casserole! Let’s move on to the magic of cooking!
How to Prepare the Broccoli Quinoa Casserole Recipe
Now that you’ve gathered all those wonderful ingredients, it’s time to dive into preparation! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a cozy, cheesy casserole ready to bake in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden top!
- Rinse the quinoa: Grab your quinoa and rinse it under cold water in a fine mesh strainer. This little step helps wash away the bitterness and makes it taste oh-so-good!
- Sauté the aromatics: In a medium pot, heat that teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they’re soft and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes. Trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Cook the quinoa: Next, add your rinsed quinoa to the pot along with 2 cups of vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring it all to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This is where the magic happens!
- Add the broccoli: After 15 minutes, stir in those broccoli florets and let everything cook together for another 5 minutes. The broccoli should be bright green and tender but still have a nice crunch!
- Combine with dairy: Remove the pot from heat and mix in the milk and half of your shredded cheese. This is where it gets creamy and dreamy!
- Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining cheese for that glorious cheesy crust.
- Bake to perfection: Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. I can’t wait for you to see it come together!
And there you have it! A delicious broccoli quinoa casserole ready to be devoured. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy every cheesy bite!
Nutritional Information for Broccoli Quinoa Casserole Recipe
Let’s talk about the nutrition in this delicious broccoli quinoa casserole! Each serving (about 1 cup) is estimated to pack a wholesome punch, making it a great choice for a hearty meal. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 12g
- Sugar: 2g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose. But one thing’s for sure: you’re getting a nutritious, filling meal that’s as good for your taste buds as it is for your body!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation—ready in just 45 minutes!
- Nutritious ingredients that keep you feeling great.
- Deliciously creamy and cheesy, perfect for satisfying cravings.
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or spices.
- Great for meal prep—enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
Tips for Success with Broccoli Quinoa Casserole Recipe
To make your broccoli quinoa casserole shine, here are a few pro tips! First, don’t skip rinsing the quinoa—this really makes a difference in flavor. If you want to amp up the flavor, try sautéing additional veggies like bell peppers or adding a sprinkle of your favorite herbs, such as thyme or basil. For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. Also, keep an eye on the cheese during baking; if it starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it with foil to prevent burning. Trust me, these little tweaks will elevate your dish to a whole new level!
Variations on the Broccoli Quinoa Casserole Recipe
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this broccoli quinoa casserole! For a pop of color and flavor, try adding carrots or bell peppers—they not only taste great but look beautiful too! You can also experiment with different cheeses; feta or goat cheese can add a tangy twist that’s simply delightful. Want some warmth? Sprinkle in a teaspoon of cumin or smoked paprika for a cozy, smoky flavor! And if you’re in the mood for something seasonal, toss in some pumpkin or spinach for a fall-inspired variation. The possibilities are endless—have fun with it!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This broccoli quinoa casserole stores beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then transfer any uneaten portions to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days—perfect for quick meals throughout the week!
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, you can also pop it in the microwave for a few minutes. Just cover it to keep the moisture in. Enjoy those cheesy bites all over again!
FAQ about Broccoli Quinoa Casserole Recipe
Can I use different vegetables in the casserole?
Absolutely! This broccoli quinoa casserole recipe is super versatile. Feel free to add in veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or even spinach for a different flavor and texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Just let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days, perfect for quick meals!
Can I make this casserole vegan?
For a vegan option, simply substitute the milk with almond or oat milk and use plant-based cheese. It’ll still be delicious!
How do I know when it’s done baking?
You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden, usually around 25-30 minutes. Just keep an eye on it!
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can! Just let it cool, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Broccoli Quinoa Casserole Recipe for Comforting Delight
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A nutritious and hearty broccoli quinoa casserole.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rinse quinoa under cold water.
- In a pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Add quinoa, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir in broccoli and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and mix in milk and half of the cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with remaining cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Notes
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- You can add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.
- For a vegan option, use plant-based cheese and milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: broccoli quinoa casserole recipe