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Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Casserole (Dump & Bake) Recipe

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3.8 from 12 reviews

A comforting and nutritious Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Casserole that combines protein-packed quinoa, fresh broccoli, chickpeas, and a creamy, flavorful broth. This dump-and-bake recipe is easy to prepare, dairy-free, and perfect for a wholesome family meal.

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Broth Mixture

  • 1 cup vegetable broth or imitation “chicken” broth
  • 3/4 cup full-fat coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Main Ingredients

  • 32 ounces canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained (2 cans or about 3 cups cooked)
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 12 ounces)
  • 1 cup dry quinoa
  • 1 shallot, finely diced
  • 4 ounces dairy-free cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and set aside a 9×13” casserole dish, preferably with a lid.
  2. Boil the Broth: In a small saucepan, combine the vegetable broth, full-fat coconut milk, nutritional yeast, and garlic powder. Stir well, cover, and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
  3. Layer the Casserole: While the broth is heating, place the dry quinoa, finely diced shallot, and rinsed chickpeas in the bottom of the casserole dish. Mix them together evenly, then sprinkle the fresh broccoli florets on top, keeping them mostly on the surface.
  4. Combine: Once the broth mixture reaches a boil, carefully pour it over the quinoa and vegetables in the casserole dish. Use a spoon or spatula to gently mix just enough to ensure the quinoa is submerged under the liquid, but keep the broccoli mostly on top. Cover the casserole tightly with a lid or aluminum foil.
  5. Bake: Place the covered casserole on the middle oven rack and bake for 35 minutes. Check to ensure the quinoa is fully cooked; if it needs more time, bake uncovered for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
  6. Mix and Cheese: Remove the casserole from the oven and stir it well. If you are adding dairy-free cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the top oven rack and broil with the oven door slightly ajar for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes lightly golden.
  7. Serve: Serve the casserole warm. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

  • Use vegetable broth for a vegan version, or imitation chicken broth for more savory depth.
  • Full-fat coconut milk adds creaminess, but you can substitute with any other plant-based milk if preferred.
  • Adding dairy-free cheese is optional but enhances flavor and texture.
  • Make sure to rinse quinoa thoroughly before use to remove bitterness.
  • Broccoli can be substituted with other vegetables like cauliflower or asparagus.
  • Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your oven; check quinoa doneness before removing.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Vegetarian American
  • Diet: Vegan