Quinoa Mac and Cheese with Spinach and Broccoli Recipe
A creamy, comforting Quinoa Mac and Cheese with nutrient-packed broccoli and spinach, combining wholesome quinoa with a rich, cheesy sauce made from cheddar and mozzarella. This wholesome twist on classic mac and cheese is perfect for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Grains and Vegetables
- 4 cups quinoa, cooked
- 1 cup broccoli, chopped and cooked
- 5 oz. spinach
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- 2 cups almond milk, or milk of choice
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional Topping
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, optional
Instructions
- Cook Quinoa and Broccoli: Prepare the quinoa according to package instructions on the stovetop. Simultaneously, cook the broccoli by roasting, steaming, or using an Instant Pot until tender.
- Prepare Milk Mixture: Whisk together the almond milk and cornstarch in a bowl and set aside to use for the cheese sauce.
- Sauté Aromatics and Spinach: Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in dijon mustard and cook for 30 seconds, then add spinach and cook until wilted, approximately 1 minute.
- Make Cheese Sauce: Pour the milk and cornstarch mixture into the skillet. Bring to a low boil, then reduce to a simmer. Gradually add half the shredded cheese while whisking constantly until melted. Stir in the remaining cheese until the sauce is smooth. Remove the skillet from heat.
- Combine Quinoa and Broccoli: Add cooked quinoa and broccoli to the skillet, stirring thoroughly with a large spoon to ensure the quinoa is fully coated in the cheese sauce.
- Bake Optional Topping: If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Place the skillet under the broiler for 2 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy. Serve immediately and enjoy your nutritious quinoa mac and cheese.
Notes
- Broccoli can be cooked by your preferred method: roasting, steaming, or Instant Pot.
- Use any type of milk you prefer, such as dairy, almond, or oat milk.
- The breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a nice crunch if broiled briefly.
- For a vegan version, substitute cheeses with vegan cheese alternatives.
- Stir constantly when adding cheese to avoid clumping in the sauce.
