If you're looking for a cozy, satisfying dish that brings together the wholesome goodness of quinoa and the creamy delight of cheese, look no further! Our Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Casserole is not only easy to make but also a delicious way to enjoy a comforting meal with your family.
Quinoa is our protein-packed base, bringing a nutty flavor and fluffy texture. Olive oil helps sauté the veggies to perfection, adding a hint of richness. Onion and garlic build a flavor foundation with their aromatic qualities. Broccoli adds a pop of color, crunch, and nutrition. The star ingredient, sharp cheddar cheese, gives our casserole its irresistible creaminess. Milk and flour create a smooth sauce to bind everything together. A touch of nutmeg adds warmth, while salt and black pepper bring all flavors together. Lastly, breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese create a crunchy topping that elevates the dish.
This casserole is a meal in itself, but you can serve it alongside a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast. A glass of crisp white wine also pairs beautifully with the creamy and cheesy flavors.
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, rinse your quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. Combine it with 2 cups of water in a saucepan, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover it up and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until it's fluffy and the water has been absorbed.
As your quinoa is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and let it cook until it’s translucent, about 5 minutes should do the trick. Add the garlic next and sauté for just a minute, until you can really smell that wonderful aroma.
Now, stir in the broccoli florets and cook them for around 5 minutes. You’re looking for a bright green color and tender-crisp texture. While these veggies are working their magic, let’s move on to the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, whisk milk and flour over medium heat until smooth and thickened, which takes about 3 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese along with salt, black pepper, and a dash of nutmeg. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is velvety smooth.
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked quinoa, broccoli mixture, and the cheese sauce. Mix it all until well blended. Pour this mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
In a small bowl, mix together breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle this evenly over the top of the casserole. Pop it in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Once done, let your casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This gives it a chance to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
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