Description
BACK-TO-SCHOOL Easy Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Bake! This Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Bake is the healthy, cheesy, and a super easy recipe that will please everyone at your table. The flavors are simple/appealing, the prep is a breeze, it’s loaded with protein and it’s perfect for busy weeknights
Ingredients
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken or veggie broth
1 cup whole milk
1 tsp salt, divided
1 tsp black pepper, divided
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1 cup quinoa, you can use both cooked or uncooked by time in the oven will differ depending
4 cups broccoli florets
optional: 1lb chicken
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375ºF
Heat butter and oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook 3 to 5 minutes, until soft. Stir in flour and cook 2 full minutes to remove raw flour taste.
Slowly whisk in broth and milk; increase heat to bring mixture to a simmer. Simmer for 5 minutes, whisking often, until sauce thickens. Stir in poultry seasoning, 1 tsp. salt, 3/4 tsp. black pepper, and 1/2 cup of the shredded cheese. Remove from heat.
Cut chicken (if adding to recipe) into small bite-sized pieces, and season with remaining 1/4 tsp. each of salt and black pepper.
Grease a 4-quart casserole dish with cooking spray. Add quinoa, chicken, and broccoli to dish. Pour cheese sauce overtop and carefully stir, making sure all components are mostly submerged in sauce.
Bake for 40 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the quinoa and chicken are cooked through.
Remove from oven, stir again, and top with remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheese. Broil for 3 to 5 minutes, until the cheesy is bubbly and golden. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
