Go Back
In the realm of comfort food, casseroles hold a special place. They are warm, filling, and often evoke nostalgic memories of family gatherings and home-cooked meals. One standout option that has gained popularity in recent years is the Classic Cheddar & Broccoli Quinoa Casserole. This dish not only satisfies the taste buds but also brings a host of nutritional benefits to the table, making it a go-to choice for health-conscious individuals and families alike.

Classic Cheddar & Broccoli Quinoa Casserole

Discover the comforting flavors of Classic Cheddar & Broccoli Quinoa Casserole, where wholesome ingredients meet deliciousness. This nutritious dish combines protein-rich quinoa with vibrant broccoli and creamy cheddar cheese, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious families. It's versatile, accommodating gluten-free and vegetarian diets while sneaking in veggies for picky eaters. Enjoy a hearty meal that's easy to prepare and perfect for leftovers!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 cup quinoa, rinsed

2 cups vegetable broth (or water)

2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen if unavailable)

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)

1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 teaspoon olive oil

½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or similar size with non-stick spray or olive oil.

    Cook Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa has absorbed all the liquid. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

      Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until translucent. If using fresh broccoli, add it now and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until slightly tender. If using frozen broccoli, add it directly to the quinoa in the next step.

        Mix the Casserole: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sautéed onions and garlic, broccoli, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, milk, eggs, Dijon mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.

          Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

            Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. If using, evenly distribute the breadcrumbs over the cheese to create a crispy topping.

              Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

                Cool and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious and wholesome dish!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 6 servings