Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Bake

Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Bake. Broccoli and quinoa smothered in a creamy cheese sauce and topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs. A healthier version of the Broccoli Rice Casserole we all love!

If you love easy casserole recipes then you would love my Broccoli Rice Casserole!

Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Bake

I took one of my favorite casseroles and made it healthier! This Broccoli Quinoa Casserole is still rich and satisfying as the original. I make an easy homemade cheese sauce using milk, shredded cheddar cheese, flour and a little butter. I substituted quinoa in place of the rice and skipped pre made canned soup.

For an added crunch I top the casserole with toasted panko breadcrumbs. It makes all the difference!

To make this a full meal add shredded rotisserie chicken! You can also add canned tuna to this for a protein boost!

Ingredients

• Quinoa: Is used in place of rice for an added protein boost!
• Broccoli: You can use fresh or frozen broccoli in this casserole. Just make sure to thaw the frozen broccoli before adding. You can also substitute cauliflower florets!
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Use gluten free breadcrumbs to keep this dish gluten free.
• Butter & Flour: Are used to make a roux to thicken up the cheese sauce. You can use gluten free flour to make this dish gluten free.
• Milk: I use 2% milk however any nut milk can be substituted. You would not be able to tell the difference.
• Seasonings: Just like with my broccoli cheese casserole I add in mustard powder, onion powder, garlic powder and Italian seasoning to my cheese sauce. Feel free to add a pinch of paprika, cayenne or even hot sauce for a little kick!
• Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar cheese in this recipe. However gouda, swiss, fontina or pepper jack can also be used.
• Sour cream: Adds the perfect amount of creaminess to the casserole. You can substitute greek yogurt in place of the sour cream for an added protein boost!

How to make broccoli quinoa bake

• Cook quinoa: According to package instructions.

• Make panko breading: Meanwhile heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet. Add panko and cook stirring constantly until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
• Saute broccoli: In the same pan heat the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the broccoli and cook until tender, set aside.

• Make cheese sauce: start by melting butter in a medium saucepan. Add in flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute. Slowly add in milk and seasonings. Continue to whisk until thickened slightly, 3-4 minutes.

• Bake: Take off of the heat and stir in 1 cup of cheese, sour cream, broccoli and cooked quinoa. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

• Transfer mixture to a 9 x 13 baking dish and top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese. Bake in a 350 degree oven until cheese has melted, a couple of minutes. Top the casserole with the toasted breadcrumbs and serve immediately.

• Serve: Immediately with fresh parsley for serving!

variations

• Use whatever vegetables you have on hand! You could also use cauliflower, bell peppers, peas or corn!
• Use your favorite kind of cheese: I love using extra sharp cheddar for the flavor however monetary jack, gruyere, gouda even parmesan would be delicious in this!
• For a little spice add some cayenne or a couple dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.

What to serve with this Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Bake

• Easy Grilled Chicken
• Oven Fried Chicken Thighs
• Honey Garlic Salmon
• Honey Roasted Carrots
• Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Thighs
• Salad
• Roasted Vegetables

Here are more Healthy Quinoa Recipes to try!

• Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
• Quinoa and Turkey Stuffed Peppers
• Vegetarian Quinoa Chili
• Greek Kale Quinoa Salad