Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Casserole

Categories: casserole, dinner

Ingredients

• 11/2 cups quinoa
• 1 head broccoli, cut into small florets
• 3 tbsp. unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp. all-purpose flour
• 2 shallots, diced
• 2 cups milk (low-fat is fine)
• 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp. dry mustard
• 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded*
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken

Directions

1. Cook the quinoa according to the package directions. Meanwhile, place the broccoli in a saucepan and add a couple inches of water. Cover and bring to a boil over high heat. Let boil just 1-2 minutes more, until the broccoli is crisp-tender. Drain immediately and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking. Set aside.

2. Preheat the oven to 400˚ F. To make the cheese sauce, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, shallots, garlic powder, dry mustard and cayenne. Continue whisking the mixture until it is light golden, about 1-2 minutes. Slowly whisk in the milk. Allow the sauce to simmer, stirring frequently, until the mixture bubbles and thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat. Whisk in the cheddar until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, broccoli florets, shredded cooked chicken and the cheese sauce. Fold together gently until evenly combined.

3. Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased casserole dish. Bake until the top is lightly browned, about 20-25 minutes. Serve warm.

4. *For best results, always use freshly shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese comes coated in things such as flour, cornstarch to prevent clumping and results in an unpleasant, gritty texture when melted.

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