Fresh broccoli and wholesome quinoa come together in this creamy, cheese casserole with an extra crunchy topping. Nutritious and delicious, this dish is the perfect way to get your little ones to eat their veggies!
Ingredients For Broccoli Quinoa Casserole
- Vegetable broth
- Quinoa
- Red pepper flakes
- Paprika
- Parsley flakes
- Salt and pepper
- Milk
- Broccoli
- Avocado or olive oil
- Butter
- Garlic
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Cheddar cheese
How To Make Easy Broccoli Quinoa Casserole
- Bring the vegetable broth to a boil, add the quinoa, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 mins. Add the red pepper flakes, paprika, parsley, salt, pepper, milk, and ½ the cheddar cheese and stir until creamy and smooth.
- Heat the oven to 400 F, place the broccoli florets on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, drizzle with oil, and roast for 20 minutes or until slightly charred.
- Melt the butter in a small skillet and saute the garlic for 30 seconds. Add the breadcrumbs and cook until lightly toasted. Set aside.
Place the creamy quinoa in a pie dish, top with the roasted broccoli, sprinkle the remaining half of the cheddar cheese, and sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot, and bubbly, and the cheese is melted and slightly brown.
How Do I Know When The Quinoa Is Cooked?
Quinoa is cooked when it has absorbed all the liquid and the grains turn translucent and fluffy. Let it sit, covered, for a few more minutes after cooking to steam.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Remove the plastic wrap and add 5 more minutes to the baking time if baking it cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers and Reheat Them?
Let any leftovers cool down completely and store them in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, let them thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, and reheat in the microwave or in a 350 F oven.
Easy Broccoli Quinoa Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- Knife and cutting board
- Baking sheet
- medium-sized saucepan
- Pie dish
- Oven
Ingredients
For the quinoa:
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
- 1 tsp parsley flakes
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- ½ tsp salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded and divided
- 1 cup 2% milk
For the broccoli:
- 2 broccoli heads, cut into small florets
- 2 ½ tbsp avocado or olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
For the breadcrumbs:
- ½ tbsp butter
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Bring the vegetable broth to a boil, add the quinoa, reduce the heat and simmer for 15 mins. Add the red pepper flakes, paprika, parsley, salt, pepper, milk, and ½ the cheddar cheese, and stir until creamy and smooth.
- Heat the oven to 400 F, place the broccoli florets on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, drizzle with oil, season with salt, and roast for 20 mins or until slightly charred.
- Melt the butter in a small skillet and saute the garlic for 30 seconds. Add the breadcrumbs and cook until lightly toasted. Set aside.
- Place the creamy quinoa in a pie dish, top with the roasted broccoli, sprinkle the remaining half of the cheddar cheese, and sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot, bubbly, and the cheese is melted and slightly brown.
Frequently Asked Questions about Broccoli Quinoa Casserole Recipe
1. Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead Of Fresh?
Yes, you can roast frozen broccoli. No need to thaw it first, just add a few more minutes to the roasting time.
2. What Can I Substitute For Quinoa?
If you don’t have quinoa, you can use rice or couscous. Remember to adjust the cooking times according to package instructions.
3. Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Definitely! Use plant-based milk instead of regular milk, and use vegan cheese instead of cheddar.
4. What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
You can make your own by toasting a slice of your favorite bread and then using a food processor to make it into breadcrumbs.
5. Can I Use A Different Type Of Cheese?
You can use your favorite melty cheese, just make sure you shred it yourself. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking ingredients that prevent it from melting properly.
6. Is There A Way To Add More Protein To This Dish?
If you want to add protein, you can mix chopped cooked chicken, diced tofu, or beans into the casserole before baking it.
