Quinoa Mac and Cheese
Indulge in a comforting bowl of Quinoa Mac and Cheese, a nutritious take on the classic comfort food that swaps out pasta for protein-packed quinoa. Perfectly cooked quinoa is folded into a creamy, velvety cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and parmesan, creating a rich and flavorful dish that's both satisfying and wholesome. A touch of ground mustard and black pepper adds depth to the sauce, while optional garnishes like paprika and fresh parsley elevate the presentation. Ready in just 30 minutes, this gluten-free mac and cheese alternative is perfect for busy weeknights or as a healthier crowd-pleaser. Whether you're looking for a lightened-up twist or simply a new way to enjoy cheesy goodness, this dish is guaranteed to hit the spot!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups milk
- 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cups parmesan cheese, grated
- 0.25 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoons ground mustard (optional)
- 0.25 teaspoons paprika (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer.
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water and 0.5 teaspoons of salt to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and quinoa is tender. Remove from heat and set aside.
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the mixture starts to thicken.
Lower the heat to medium-low and add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
Season the cheese sauce with ground black pepper and ground mustard, if using. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Fold the cooked quinoa into the cheese sauce, stirring until evenly coated.
Serve immediately, garnished with paprika and chopped parsley, if desired. Enjoy your delicious and healthier Quinoa Mac and Cheese!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
384 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 26.4 g | 34% | |
| Saturated Fat | 16.8 g | 84% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 80 mg | 27% | |
| Sodium | 732 mg | 32% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 19.0 g | 7% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.6 g | 6% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.8 g | ||
| Protein | 20.0 g | 40% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.5 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 538 mg | 41% | |
| Iron | 1.3 mg | 7% | |
| Potassium | 261 mg | 6% | |
*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.
