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Cozy Cheesy Veggie Quinoa Casserole

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A quick, nutritious, and kid-friendly quinoa casserole loaded with veggies and sharp cheddar cheese, perfect for family comfort dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (170g) uncooked quinoa, rinsed well
  • 1 cup (150g) broccoli florets, chopped (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup (130g) diced carrots (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/2 cup (75g) bell peppers, diced (any color)
  • 1/2 cup (60g) chopped zucchini
  • 1 cup (115g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup (120g) cottage cheese, small-curd
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk or dairy-free alternative
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup quinoa under cold water for about 30 seconds to remove bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with 2 cups water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
  2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add diced carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, and zucchini. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until veggies are tender but still hold a bit of bite. Season with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and smoked paprika.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup milk, and 1/2 cup cottage cheese until smooth and creamy.
  6. Add cooked quinoa and sautéed vegetables into the egg mixture. Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Mix gently but thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
  7. Lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish, then spread the quinoa mixture evenly in the dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the middle. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean.
  9. Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing to help it firm up and let flavors meld.

Notes

Rinsing quinoa removes bitterness and improves flavor. Use room temperature eggs and dairy for a creamier texture. Sauté veggies until tender but not mushy. Let casserole rest before slicing for cleaner portions. If top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil halfway through baking. Can substitute quinoa with couscous or brown rice. For dairy-free, use vegan cheese and plant-based milk with blended tofu.

Nutrition

Keywords: quinoa casserole, cheesy quinoa, veggie casserole, family dinner, comfort food, easy weeknight meal, gluten-free, vegetarian

Find it online: https://bouncybowl.com/cozy-cheesy-veggie-quinoa-casserole-easy-family-comfort-recipe/