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Cheesy Quinoa Recipe (Stovetop or Instant Pot) Recipe

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4.3 from 14 reviews

This Cheesy Quinoa recipe offers a creamy, flavorful way to enjoy quinoa, cooked either on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot. The sharp cheddar cheese sauce blended with Greek yogurt and half & half cream creates a rich, comforting dish perfect as a side or a standalone meal. Easy to follow and adaptable, this recipe highlights quinoa’s versatility with a cheesy twist.

  • Total Time: 17 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Quinoa

  • 1 cup uncooked quinoa
  • 1 cup water (for Instant Pot method)
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt (for Instant Pot method)

Cheese Sauce

  • 1 1/2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (non-GMO)
  • 1 cup half & half cream
  • 1/2 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp dried mustard
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook Quinoa (Instant Pot method): Rinse the quinoa thoroughly. Add the rinsed quinoa, 1 cup water, and 1/4 teaspoon sea salt to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine. Secure the lid and set the valve to seal. Cook on high pressure for 1 minute, then allow natural pressure release to finish the cooking process.
  2. Cook Quinoa (Stovetop method): Rinse quinoa thoroughly. Cook according to package directions, typically simmering in water (about 2 cups water for 1 cup quinoa) until the water is absorbed and quinoa is tender. Drain any excess water if needed.
  3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: While quinoa cooks, melt 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/4 teaspoon dried mustard to the melted butter, stirring constantly until a smooth roux forms and ingredients are well combined.
  4. Thicken the Sauce: Slowly add 1 cup half & half cream and 1/2 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt to the roux, stirring continuously. Cook for 4-6 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken and has a creamy consistency.
  5. Add Cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Combine Quinoa and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked quinoa to the cheese sauce and stir gently until fully combined and heated through.

Notes

  • Rinsing quinoa is important to remove the natural bitter coating (saponin).
  • For stovetop cooking, the water to quinoa ratio can vary; typically, use 2 cups water per 1 cup quinoa.
  • You can adjust the cheese types based on preference, but sharp cheddar offers the best flavor balance.
  • For a thinner sauce, increase the half & half slightly or reduce the cornstarch amount.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Instant Pot
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://recipeteach.com/cheesy-quinoa-recipe-stovetop-or-instant-pot-recipe/