Broccoli Quinoa Casserole Vegetarian Recipe Made Easy

Looking for a wholesome, comforting, and nutrient-packed meal that’s entirely vegetarian? This Broccoli Quinoa Casserole is exactly what you need!

Combining the superfood qualities of quinoa with the vibrant crunch of broccoli and a creamy cheesy sauce, this casserole is a one-dish wonder that satisfies both your taste buds and your health goals.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, it’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your preferences.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just want to incorporate more meatless meals into your diet, this casserole offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s gluten-free and packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins – making it a great choice for the whole family.

Let’s dive into how you can create this delicious, cheesy, and hearty dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This broccoli quinoa casserole is a perfect marriage of flavors and nutrition. Quinoa, known for its high protein content and all nine essential amino acids, forms a hearty base that makes this dish filling and energizing.

The broccoli adds a pop of green, fiber, and antioxidants, while the creamy sauce binds everything together with a luscious, cheesy finish.

It’s incredibly versatile, too! You can easily swap ingredients to fit what’s in your pantry or dietary needs.

The casserole also reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for leftovers or meal prepping lunches. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike, thanks to its rich texture and comforting flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or vegan cheese for dairy-free)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or plant-based yogurt)
• 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Equipment

• Medium saucepan with lid
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• 9×9 inch baking dish or similar casserole dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater (if using block cheese)

Instructions

1. Cook the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
2. Prepare the broccoli: While the quinoa cooks, steam the broccoli florets for about 5 minutes until just tender but still bright green. Alternatively, blanch in boiling water for 2-3 minutes and drain well.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add minced garlic, dried thyme, and smoked paprika; cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Make the creamy sauce: Lower the heat and stir in Greek yogurt and milk into the skillet with onions and garlic. Mix well to combine and heat gently until the mixture is warm but not boiling. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine all ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, steamed broccoli, sautéed sauce mixture, shredded cheddar, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated.
6. Transfer to baking dish: Pour the quinoa and broccoli mixture into a greased 9×9 inch baking dish. Smooth the surface with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs evenly on top for a crunchy golden crust.
7. Bake the casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
8. Cool and serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor depth, try adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers to the casserole mix.

• Make it vegan: Use a plant-based yogurt, dairy-free cheese, and non-dairy milk alternatives.
• Add protein: Incorporate cooked chickpeas or white beans for added texture and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the sauce for a gentle heat kick.
• Use fresh herbs: Stir in chopped parsley, basil, or dill just before baking for vibrant herbal notes.
• Breadcrumb topping: Substitute with crushed nuts or seeds if you want a gluten-free crunchy topping.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This broccoli quinoa casserole is a complete meal on its own but pairs beautifully with a few simple sides. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast.

Roasted root vegetables or a warm bowl of tomato soup also complement the creamy texture wonderfully.

For a heartier meal, serve alongside warm crusty bread or garlic breadsticks. Leftovers can be reheated easily, making this dish perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

You might also enjoy it cold or at room temperature as a nutritious packed lunch.

Conclusion

This Broccoli Quinoa Casserole is a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful, filling, and healthy vegetarian meal. It highlights the best of simple ingredients, transforming them into a creamy, cheesy bake that’s both comforting and nutritious.

The versatility of this recipe means you can adjust it to suit your dietary preferences, making it a reliable go-to in your recipe arsenal.

By incorporating superfoods like quinoa and broccoli, you’re not only treating yourself to delicious flavors but also fueling your body with essential nutrients. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to introduce more plant-based meals into your diet without sacrificing taste or satisfaction.

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out other favorites like our Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe, Lemon Straws Recipe, and Halibut Dip Recipe for more culinary inspiration!

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