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Broccoli And Cheddar Quinoa Gratin- Cozy, Cheesy, and Comforting

Broccoli & Cheddar Quinoa Gratin

Czarryy
A hearty yet wholesome baked dish layered with tender broccoli, creamy quinoa, and sharp cheddar, topped with a golden breadcrumb crust. Perfect as a comforting vegetarian main or a flavorful side.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Course Main Dish, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Vegetarian Comfort Food
Servings 4
Calories 370 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan with lid
  • Cutting board & knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Oven-safe baking dish (lightly greased)
  • Small mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • 2 cups vegetable stock
  • 3 cups broccoli florets
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven
    Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a casserole or baking dish.
  • Sauté the Aromatics
    Warm olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook until softened and fragrant, about 4–5 minutes.
  • Toast the Quinoa
    Stir in the quinoa and dill, allowing the grains to toast slightly for 2–3 minutes.
  • Cook the Quinoa
    Pour in the vegetable stock, bring to a boil, then lower to a simmer. Cover with a lid and cook for 12 minutes. Remove from heat but keep covered for an additional 5 minutes to finish steaming.
  • Combine with Broccoli and Cheese
    Fluff the quinoa, then fold in broccoli florets. Stir in the cream and cheddar until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Assemble the Gratin
    Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
  • Prepare the Topping
    In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, melted butter, and parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over the quinoa mixture.
  • Bake Until Golden
    Place in the oven and bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the top is crisp and bubbling.
  • Finish and Serve
    Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.

Notes

Pro Tips & Variations

  • Make it lighter: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
  • Add protein: Mix in shredded rotisserie chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
  • Switch cheeses: Try gruyère, fontina, or sharp yellow cheddar for different flavors.
  • Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers for the topping.
  • Extra crunch: Add toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts to the breadcrumb mixture.
Keyword broccoli gratin,, cheesy bake, healthy comfort food, meatless main, quinoa casserole, vegetarian dinner