This has all of the comforting flavors of a classic casserole but the added nutrition of using quinoa instead of rice.
To make this #dinnerdoneby9am I fully assemble the casserole in the morning, top with cheese and refrigerate all day, then bake just prior to serving.
-1 cup quinoa, cooked according to package directions
-2 cups broccoli cut into bite sized pieces and steamed until it has just begun to soften
-2 Tbsp butter
-2 Tbsp flour
-1 cup chicken broth
-1 cup milk
-1/2 tsp salt
-1/2 tsp pepper
-1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided use
Melt butter in a medium pot over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Whisk in the broth, milk, salt and pepper and simmer stirring often until mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Add 1 cup of the cheddar, stirring until completely melted. In a large bowl stir together the cooked quinoa, steamed broccoli and cheese sauce. Spread the mixture into a greased 8×8 casserole.Top with remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar. Bake at 350 for 20 minutes and serve.
