Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Casserole

Name: Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium zucchini, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 small onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Home Cooking

I absolutely love this Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Casserole because it's packed with nutritious ingredients and bursting with flavor. Each bite is a delightful combination of tender roasted vegetables and hearty quinoa, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. I usually prepare this dish on weekends, as it’s great for meal prep throughout the week. With just a hint of spices and a sprinkle of cheese, it transforms into a comforting casserole that everyone enjoys.

Created by

Camille Norwood

Last updated on 2026-01-21T19:34:35.306Z

Making this Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Casserole was a delightful experiment in my kitchen. I started with a variety of seasonal vegetables, allowing their natural sweetness to shine through when roasted. The key is to ensure they are caramelized but not overcooked, as this gives the dish a rich depth of flavor.

While preparing the casserole, I learned that using a blend of spices enhances the overall taste. The hint of smoked paprika and garlic complements the vegetables beautifully. This customization ensures every forkful is bursting with flavor, making it a go-to dish for gatherings and meal prepping.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutritious blend of roasted vegetables and protein-packed quinoa
Versatile for meal prep and can be enjoyed warm or cold
Savory flavors enhanced by garlic and smoked paprika

The Star Ingredient: Quinoa

Quinoa is not only a great source of complete protein but also packed with fiber, making it a fantastic base for this casserole. When cooking quinoa, it’s important to rinse it under cold water before boiling to remove the natural coating called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. Following this simple step ensures that the grains will have a pleasant, nutty flavor. For extra richness, consider using vegetable broth instead of water—this enhances the overall flavor profile significantly.

Timing is key for perfect quinoa; after bringing your broth to a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer covered for about 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the grains are fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. If it seems too watery, simply cover it again and let it cook for an additional few minutes. If you're making a large batch, remember to increase your broth and quinoa proportionally to maintain the right consistency.

Roasting Vegetables to Perfection

Roasting the vegetables is crucial for developing deep flavors in this casserole. When tossing them in olive oil and spices, ensure they are evenly coated but not soaked; too much oil can lead to a greasy texture. Spreading them out on the baking sheet without overcrowding allows for better caramelization, which enhances both sweetness and flavor. Aim for a golden-brown color to indicate that they are perfectly roasted, usually around 20 to 25 minutes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C).

If you're limited on time, feel free to use pre-cut vegetables or frozen ones; just adjust the roasting time as needed, since frozen vegetables may release extra moisture. Broccoli or bell peppers can be swapped for other seasonal favorites such as asparagus or sweet potatoes, which would also work beautifully in this dish. Just remember to cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking.

Storing and Reheating Tips

This Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Casserole is fantastic for meal prepping, as it stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. To keep it fresh, store individual portions in airtight containers, which also makes it easy to grab for a quick lunch or dinner during the week. When reheating, it’s best to do so in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, covered, to retain moisture and restore the casserole’s creamy texture.

If you plan to freeze the casserole, I recommend doing so before baking. Once the mixture is prepared, transfer it to a freezer-safe dish and wrap it tightly. It can be frozen for up to three months; when you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This method allows the flavors to meld even further, resulting in a wonderfully hearty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Casserole:

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup broccoli florets
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best results in your casserole.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Casserole:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Roast the Vegetables

On a baking sheet, toss the zucchini, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, broccoli, onion, and garlic with olive oil, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Spread them out evenly and roast for 20–25 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.

Prepare the Quinoa

In a pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil and add rinsed quinoa. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the roasted vegetables with the cooked quinoa. If using, stir in half of the cheese until melted and incorporated.

Bake the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining cheese and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or add proteins like chickpeas or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.

Serving Suggestions

To make this casserole a complete meal, I love serving it with a simple side salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens complements the roasted flavors beautifully. You can also serve it alongside some crusty whole-grain bread for a comforting touch, perfect for sopping up any extra juices on your plate.

If you're hosting a gathering or family dinner, consider pairing the casserole with a light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, that will enhance the dish's flavors without overwhelming them. This makes for a nutritious and satisfying dining experience that incorporates hearty grains and vibrant vegetables.

Nutrition Boosters

To increase the nutritional profile of your casserole, feel free to add in extra vegetables or even some legumes like chickpeas or black beans. They not only contribute additional protein but also fiber, helping to keep you feeling full for longer. Try adding a handful of spinach or kale just before combining with the quinoa for an iron and vitamin boost.

For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, this dish can easily be made vegan by omitting the cheese or using a dairy-free alternative. Nutritional yeast is a fantastic substitute to give a cheesy flavor without dairy. Additionally, the quinoa itself is naturally gluten-free, making this casserole suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for 1-2 days. Just add a few minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

→ What other vegetables can I substitute?

You can use any seasonal vegetables you like, such as spinach, carrots, or cauliflower.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.