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The Cheesy Vegetable Quinoa Casserole is more than just a meal; it is a delightful celebration of flavors, textures, and nutritional benefits. This dish combines the wholesome goodness of quinoa with an array of colorful vegetables and rich, melty cheese, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Whether you are a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this casserole is an accessible and satisfying recipe that allows you to enjoy a balanced meal without compromising on taste.

Cheesy Vegetable Quinoa Casserole for Families

Discover the delicious world of Cheesy Vegetable Quinoa Casserole, a meal that combines nutritious quinoa with colorful vegetables and gooey cheese. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home. Packed with protein and essential vitamins, each bite offers a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. Dive into this recipe and learn how to create a wholesome casserole that nourishes both body and soul.

Ingredients
  

1 cup quinoa, thoroughly rinsed and drained

2 cups vegetable broth

1 cup broccoli florets, fresh or frozen

1 cup diced bell peppers (any color of your choice)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 medium zucchini, diced

1 cup corn (could be fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups shredded cheese (choose from cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)

½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream

1 tablespoon olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for your casserole.

    Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with vegetable broth. Bring this mixture to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cook for approximately 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.

      Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, and corn to the skillet. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender yet retain a bit of crunch. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to coat the veggies with the spices, then remove from heat.

        Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sautéed vegetable mixture, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), and 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and evenly coated.

          Bake the Casserole: Transfer this hearty mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese over the top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes.

            Create a Crispy Topping: After the initial 25 minutes of baking, carefully remove the foil. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top becomes melted and bubbly with a lovely golden-brown crust.

              Garnish and Serve: Once your casserole is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 55 min | 6-8 servings

                  Enjoy this delightful, cheesy dish that is perfect for a family gathering or a cozy dinner!