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Creamy Quinoa Broccoli and Cheese Casserole

Creamy Quinoa Broccoli and Cheese Casserole: Comfort Made Healthy

A delightful twist on classic comfort food, this creamy quinoa broccoli and cheese casserole is gluten-free and vegetarian, perfect for busy nights.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 2 cups Vegetable or Chicken Broth Low-sodium recommended.
  • 1 cup Uncooked Quinoa Rinse before use.
  • 4 cups Broccoli Florets Fresh for best texture.
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil For roasting.
  • 1 cup Carrots Diced.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced.
  • to taste Kosher Salt & Ground Black Pepper For seasoning.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Thickens the sauce.
  • 2 cups Non-Fat Milk For creaminess.
  • 1 can Cannellini Beans Drained and rinsed.
  • ½ cup Plain Nonfat Greek Yogurt Optional for flavor.
  • 1 cup Cheese (Mozzarella, Fontina, Provolone, Sharp Cheddar) Shredded.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
  • ½ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper For spice.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs For crunch.
  • to taste Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Chives) Optional garnish.

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • baking sheet
  • large skillet
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of rinsed uncooked quinoa with 2 cups of vegetable or chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until all liquid is absorbed. Fluff quinoa and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Broccoli: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Roast for 15-20 minutes until tender and slightly crispy.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 cup of diced onions, 1 cup of grated carrots, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, stir, and cook for another minute before gradually whisking in 2 cups of non-fat milk and 1 cup of vegetable broth. Simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Combine the Ingredients: Add the fluffy quinoa, 1 can of drained cannellini beans, and roasted broccoli into the cheese sauce. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese and ½ cup of plain nonfat Greek yogurt if desired.
  5. Assemble and Bake the Casserole: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish and transfer the quinoa mixture, spreading evenly. Top with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs. Bake for about 15 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
  6. Broil for a Golden Finish: Switch to broil setting and place casserole under broiler for 3-4 minutes until golden. Keep a close eye on it.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired. Serve warm alongside a light salad or garlic bread.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 7gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 100mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Rinse quinoa thoroughly, roast broccoli to perfect tenderness, and consider making ahead for a easy dinner option.

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