This Quinoa and Black Bean Casserole is a warm and filling dish that’s packed with flavor! It combines hearty quinoa, tasty black beans, and a mix of veggies topped with cheese.
It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy meal without sacrificing taste. I love making this dish on busy nights; it’s easy to prep and always a hit at the dinner table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Quinoa: This grain is the star of the dish! You can use white quinoa for a lighter texture, or red quinoa for a nuttier flavor. If you’re sensitive to grains, try using cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Black Beans: They add protein and fiber. Canned black beans are convenient, but you can cook dry beans if you prefer. If you want to mix it up, kidney beans or pinto beans work well too!
Corn: Fresh corn adds sweetness and a nice crunch. If it’s not in season, frozen or canned corn are great substitutes. Just ensure to drain the canned corn well to avoid excess moisture.
Diced Tomatoes: They provide moisture and flavor. If you’re not a fan of tomatoes, you can substitute with red bell pepper or a mild salsa for added flavor.
Cheese: I love using cheddar, but feel free to switch it up! Monterey Jack or a vegan cheese can work too. If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without the calories.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Quinoa?
Cooking quinoa may seem tricky, but it’s quite simple! Start with rinsing it well. This removes the natural coating (saponin) that can taste bitter. Use a 2:1 ratio of liquid to quinoa for best results.
- Bring the quinoa and vegetable broth to a boil in a saucepan.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Afterward, remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then fluff it with a fork.
This technique ensures fluffy, perfectly cooked quinoa every time!
Quinoa and Black Bean Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican cheese blend)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 avocado, diced (for topping)
- Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take you about 35-40 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 15 minutes cooking the quinoa and mixing all the ingredients, plus 15-20 minutes baking it in the oven. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps the casserole cook evenly and nicely.
2. Cook the Quinoa:
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth (or water). Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Once it’s done, remove it from heat and fluff it with a fork.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
4. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Grease a baking dish (about 9×9 inches) with cooking spray or a little oil. Transfer the quinoa mixture to the dish and spread it out evenly.
5. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious cheesy topping.
6. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t brown too much.
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, top it with the diced avocado and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Quinoa and Black Bean Casserole is ready to be served! Scoop out portions and enjoy this nutritious and hearty meal.
Enjoy your vibrant, protein-packed Quinoa and Black Bean Casserole!
Can I Use Quinoa Other Than White Quinoa?
Absolutely! You can use red or black quinoa for a different flavor and color. Just note that cooking times might vary slightly, so keep an eye on it!
How Can I Make This Casserole Vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply replace the cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast, which provides a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just chop them finely and sauté them briefly before mixing them into the casserole for even cooking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through.