Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food makeover with this Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa recipe, a wholesome twist on classic mac and cheese! Featuring fluffy quinoa as the protein-packed base, this dish is loaded with tender steamed broccoli and enveloped in a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce made from scratch. Perfectly seasoned with garlic and onion powder, it delivers mouthwatering flavor while remaining a nutritious vegetarian option. Lightly crisped in a skillet for extra texture, this dish is as versatile as it gets—serve it as a hearty side or a satisfying main course. With just 35 minutes from start to finish, it’s an irresistible blend of healthy, cheesy, and downright cozy!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1.5 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 0.5 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 0.5 teaspoons garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoons onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons pepper
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
Instructions
Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove any bitterness caused by the natural coating called saponin.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fully cooked and the water is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside.
While the quinoa is cooking, steam the broccoli florets. Bring a small pot of water to a boil, add a pinch of salt, and toss in the broccoli. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until tender but still bright green. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, steamed broccoli, and cheese sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the quinoa mixture to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, gently stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.
Serve warm as a comforting and nutritious side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main course.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
333 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 22.9 g | 29% | |
| Saturated Fat | 13.4 g | 67% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 63 mg | 21% | |
| Sodium | 588 mg | 26% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 18.4 g | 7% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.7 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.7 g | ||
| Protein | 15.8 g | 32% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.9 mcg | 5% | |
| Calcium | 381 mg | 29% | |
| Iron | 1.5 mg | 8% | |
| Potassium | 175 mg | 4% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
