Cheesy Quinoa Enchilada Bake
If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, satisfying meal that’s both hearty and nutritious, look no further than this Cheesy Quinoa Enchilada Bake. This dish comes together easily and is sure to become a favorite in your household. With wholesome ingredients like quinoa, black beans, and vibrant vegetables, you can indulge without the guilt. Plus, the melty, gooey cheddar cheese on top is the icing on the cake!
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
This Cheesy Quinoa Enchilada Bake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. The best part? It’s a crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re serving it to family or friends, everyone will be asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing.
What You’ll Need
To whip up this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
- 1 ½ cups tomatoes, finely diced
- 1 cup black beans, drained
- ¼ purple onion, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced (optional)
- 1 cup Skinny Ms. enchilada sauce
- 3 cups reduced-fat cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cilantro, finely chopped
- ¼ cup black olives, sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
Tools of the Trade
Before you get started, make sure you have the following kitchen tools on hand:
- Large mixing bowl – for combining all the ingredients.
- Baking dish (9×13) – to bake your concoction to perfection.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping veggies.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accuracy in your measurements.
- Spoon or spatula – for stirring and mixing.
Cheesy Quinoa Enchilada Bake: How It’s Done
Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this Cheesy Quinoa Enchilada Bake.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your bake cooks evenly and comes out perfectly melty.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, thawed corn, diced tomatoes, black beans, chopped purple onion, and jalapeño (if using). Stir until everything is well mixed.
Step 3: Add the Sauce
Pour in the Skinny Ms. enchilada sauce and mix until all the ingredients are evenly coated. This is where the flavor really starts to shine!
Step 4: Layer the Bake
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Now, sprinkle 2 cups of the reduced-fat cheddar cheese on top of the mixture, reserving the remaining cheese for later.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, giving you a tantalizing aroma that fills your kitchen.
Step 6: Add the Final Touches
After 25 minutes, remove the bake from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and golden.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Top with finely chopped cilantro, sliced black olives, and diced avocado before serving. Enjoy your Cheesy Quinoa Enchilada Bake warm and melty!
Make It Fit Your Plan
This recipe is incredibly adaptable to fit various dietary preferences:
- Swap quinoa for brown rice or cauliflower rice for a different texture.
- Use other beans like pinto or kidney beans for a flavor twist.
- Add veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- For added protein, consider adding shredded chicken or turkey.
What Not to Do
To ensure your Cheesy Quinoa Enchilada Bake turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t skip the preheating! Starting with a hot oven is crucial for even cooking.
- Avoid overcooking the quinoa before adding it to the mixture; it should be fluffy, not mushy.
- Don’t forget to drain the black beans thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.
- Be cautious with the jalapeño if you’re sensitive to spice; you can always add more later.
Storage & Reheat Guide
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s so good!), here’s how to store and reheat your Cheesy Quinoa Enchilada Bake:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
- You can also freeze the bake before or after cooking. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire dish and cover it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I serve with the Cheesy Quinoa Enchilada Bake?
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a side of guacamole, sour cream, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This Cheesy Quinoa Enchilada Bake is perfect for meal prep. Just divide it into portions and store them in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
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Save & Share
If you’re excited about trying this Cheesy Quinoa Enchilada Bake, don’t forget to save this recipe! Share it with your friends and family so they can enjoy it too. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress!
The Cheesy Quinoa Enchilada Bake is not just a meal; it’s a delightful culinary experience that brings warmth and joy to the table. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, it stands out as a wholesome option for any occasion. Dive into this deliciousness and discover the happiness of cooking with love!
Cheesy Quinoa Enchilada Bake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, thawed corn, diced tomatoes, black beans, chopped purple onion, and jalapeño (if using). Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Pour in the Skinny Ms. enchilada sauce and mix until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle 2 cups of the reduced-fat cheddar cheese on top, reserving the remaining cheese.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the bake from the oven, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Once done, let it cool for a few minutes. Top with finely chopped cilantro, sliced black olives, and diced avocado before serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Freeze before or after cooking in a freezer-safe container.
