If you’re looking for a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish, this Veggie-Packed Quinoa Casserole is just what you need. Loaded with vibrant vegetables, protein-rich quinoa, and melted cheese, this casserole is not only satisfying but also packed with essential nutrients. Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal-prepping enthusiast, or someone seeking a healthy yet indulgent meal, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Plus, it’s versatile, meaning you can customize it based on your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s take a look at the wholesome ingredients that make this casserole a must-try:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or water for a lighter taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Binding & Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or dairy-free alternative)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream (optional, for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins & Variations:
- For added protein, include cooked shredded chicken, tofu, or chickpeas.
- Swap out veggies based on availability—broccoli, carrots, or kale work great!
- Make it extra cheesy by adding a layer of Parmesan or feta before baking.
- Add a spicy kick with chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
- Rinse quinoa under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer to remove bitterness.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of vegetable broth (or water) to a boil.
- Stir in quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add bell pepper, zucchini, and mushrooms; cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Toss in cherry tomatoes, spinach, black beans, and corn. Stir well and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Season with cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa with sautéed vegetables.
- If using, mix in Greek yogurt or sour cream for extra creaminess.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions & Storage Tips
How to Serve:
- Enjoy the Veggie-Packed Quinoa Casserole as a standalone meal or pair it with a side salad for a complete, balanced dinner.
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt, guacamole, or a drizzle of hot sauce for added flavor.
- Complement with a side of crusty bread for extra texture and satisfaction.
Storage & Reheating:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual portions in sealed containers for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Why This Quinoa Casserole Is a Nutritional Powerhouse
- Protein-Packed: Quinoa and black beans provide a great source of plant-based protein.
- Loaded with Fiber: The variety of vegetables ensures a fiber-rich dish that promotes digestion.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Spinach, tomatoes, and bell peppers contribute to immune-boosting antioxidants.
- Low in Processed Ingredients: This dish relies on whole, fresh ingredients to keep it healthy and nourishing.
Final Thoughts
This Veggie-Packed Quinoa Casserole is the perfect combination of comfort food and healthy eating. It’s flavorful, satisfying, and packed with nutritious ingredients that nourish the body while delighting the taste buds. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a potluck gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit.
Veggie-Packed Quinoa Casserole
Description
This Veggie-Packed Quinoa Casserole is a hearty, nutritious, and flavorful dish perfect for a wholesome meal. Packed with protein-rich quinoa, a medley of colorful vegetables, and gooey melted cheese, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that works well for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or potlucks.
Ingredients
For the Base:
For the Vegetables:
For the Sauce:
For the Toppings:
Instructions
Cook the Quinoa
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of vegetable broth to a boil. Add 1 cup of rinsed quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for about 12-15 minutes, until all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Stir in bell pepper, zucchini, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add baby spinach, season with oregano, basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, and stir until spinach wilts. Remove from heat.
Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix tomato sauce, Greek yogurt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until well combined.
Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, sautéed vegetables, and sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated. Transfer mixture to a lightly greased baking dish (9x13 inches).
Add Cheese & Bake
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Rest & Serve
- Let casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil and enjoy!
Note
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Variations:
- Add black beans or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Swap zucchini for broccoli or cauliflower.
- Use dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
- Top with breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
This Veggie-Packed Quinoa Casserole is a hearty, nutritious, and flavorful dish perfect for a wholesome meal. Packed with protein-rich quinoa, a medley of colorful vegetables, and gooey melted cheese, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that works well for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or potlucks.
