Name: Broccoli Quinoa Casserole with Cheesy Greek Yogurt Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups low sodium vegetable broth or low sodium chicken broth (divided); 1 cup uncooked quinoa; 1 pound chopped broccoli florets (about 4 broccoli crowns); 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided, plus additional as needed); 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt (divided); ½ teaspoon ground black pepper (divided); 1 small yellow onion (chopped); 3 medium carrots (cut into 1/4 to 1/3-inch dice); 1 teaspoon minced garlic (about 2 cloves); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 2 tablespoons all purpose flour; 1 cup non-fat milk; 1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt; 3/4 cup freshly grated mozzarella cheese (divided); 3/4 cup freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese (divided); 1 15-ounce can cannellini beans (rinsed and drained); Chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, dill, or thyme — for serving)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 87 reviews

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If you’re craving a hearty, wholesome dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you have to try this Broccoli Quinoa Casserole with Cheesy Greek Yogurt Recipe. It brilliantly combines fluffy quinoa, tender roasted broccoli, and a luscious, tangy cheese sauce made with Greek yogurt for added creaminess and protein. Every bite delivers the perfect balance of textures and flavors—from the slight crisp of the roasted broccoli tips to the rich, cheesy goodness binding everything together. It’s comfort food elevated with nutritious ingredients, making it a go-to for cozy family dinners or meal prep that feels indulgent without weighing you down.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with many small bright green broccoli florets sits on a wooden board. To the left of the bowl, there are three whole orange carrots placed side by side. To the right, a small white bowl holds smooth, beige beans and is resting on a white and blue striped cloth. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays an essential role in making the Broccoli Quinoa Casserole with Cheesy Greek Yogurt Recipe truly shine. The quinoa brings a delightful nuttiness and bulk, while the roasted broccoli adds beautiful color and a satisfying bite. Greek yogurt creates a creamy, tangy sauce that’s lighter than a typical cream base, and the blend of cheeses pulls everything together with melty, gooey perfection.

Low sodium vegetable or chicken broth (3 cups): This gently infuses the quinoa with extra flavor as it cooks.
Uncooked quinoa (1 cup): A protein-packed, fluffy grain that forms the hearty base of the casserole.
Extra virgin olive oil (3 tablespoons, divided): Adds richness and helps roast the broccoli to golden perfection.
Broccoli florets (1 pound): Offers vibrant green color and a crisp-tender texture after roasting.
Kosher salt (1 1/2 teaspoons, divided): Enhances every flavor in the dish.
Ground black pepper (1/2 teaspoon, divided): Provides just the right hint of warmth and depth.
Small yellow onion (1, chopped): Brings sweetness and earthiness when sautéed.
Medium carrots (3, diced): Add subtle sweetness and lovely texture contrast.
Minced garlic (1 teaspoon): Infuses a fragrant, savory note to the base sauce.
Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Lends a delicate herbaceous touch.
Cayenne pepper (1/8 teaspoon, optional): Adds a gentle kick for those who want a little heat.
All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce to a creamy consistency.
Non-fat milk (1 cup): Creates the smooth, saucy base alongside the broth.
Plain nonfat Greek yogurt (1 cup): Offers creamy tang and protein without heaviness.
Freshly grated mozzarella (3/4 cup, divided): Brings melty, gooey richness.
Freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese (3/4 cup, divided): Adds a bold, sharp flavor contrast.
Cannellini beans (1 15-ounce can, rinsed and drained): Adds subtle creaminess and extra protein.
Chopped fresh herbs (parsley, basil, dill, or thyme): Perfect for a bright, fresh finish when serving.

How to Make Broccoli Quinoa Casserole with Cheesy Greek Yogurt Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by positioning your oven racks in the upper and lower thirds and preheating the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare two large rimmed baking sheets by spraying them generously with nonstick spray, and coat your casserole dish as well. This ensures your broccoli won’t stick and your casserole will be easy to serve later.

Step 2: Cook the Quinoa

In a large saucepan, bring 2 cups of broth with the quinoa to a low boil. Lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes. Then, remove from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to absorb all that flavor and fluff up beautifully. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 3: Roast the Broccoli

While the quinoa is cooking, toss the broccoli florets in a large bowl with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Make sure every floret is nicely coated. Spread evenly across the two prepared baking sheets without crowding. Roast on the upper and lower racks for 10 minutes, toss gently, then roast for another 5 to 10 minutes until browned and crispy on the tips. Once done, lower your oven temperature to 350 degrees.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced carrots, sautéing until they soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, remaining salt, and pepper; cook briefly until fragrant to build that aromatic base.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the veggie mixture and stir continuously until it turns a light golden brown and smells nutty, about 30 seconds to a minute. Gradually pour in the remaining broth and the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, reduce the heat, and let it bubble until slightly thickened, around 5 minutes. Stir in the oregano and cayenne pepper, then remove from heat.

Step 6: Combine and Mix

Slowly incorporate the cooked quinoa, cannellini beans, and roasted broccoli into the sauce. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Next, stir in the Greek yogurt along with half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses for that creamy texture that makes this casserole unforgettable.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pour the entire mixture into your prepared casserole dish, smoothing it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top. Bake uncovered for about 15 minutes until the cheese melts and the casserole heats through. Then switch your oven to broil and broil for 3 to 4 minutes until the cheese becomes lightly browned and bubbly—watch carefully so it doesn’t burn. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before sprinkling with fresh herbs and serving.

How to Serve Broccoli Quinoa Casserole with Cheesy Greek Yogurt Recipe

A large round pot with two handles holds a creamy mixture with three clear layers: bright green broccoli florets with some dark brown roasted spots sit mostly on the left side; a thick, light beige risotto with small orange carrot pieces fills the center and right side; pale white beans cluster mainly on the bottom right edge. A wooden spoon rests inside the pot, its bowl partially submerged in the risotto near the beans. The pot sits on a black wire rack over a white marbled surface with a folded white and blue kitchen towel nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, dill, or thyme are not just pretty— they brighten the flavors and add a fresh aroma that perfectly contrasts the rich casserole. A little fresh cracked pepper or a dusting of smoked paprika can also add a nice visual and flavor lift.

Side Dishes

This casserole stands well on its own, but for a fuller meal, pair it with a crisp garden salad or roasted root vegetables. A fresh tomato and cucumber salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness and adds refreshing notes. For a heartier option, warm crusty bread is ideal for sopping up every last cheesy bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving the Broccoli Quinoa Casserole with Cheesy Greek Yogurt Recipe in individual ramekins for a personalized touch—perfect for entertaining. You can also scoop it into whole bell peppers or hollowed-out tomatoes for a colorful, family-friendly presentation. Leftovers work wonderfully as a filling for wraps or stuffed baked potatoes too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This casserole maintains its flavor and texture beautifully, making it an excellent option for next-day lunches or dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole, either whole or in portions. Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the creamy consistency and flavors.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, about 20 minutes. For smaller portions, the microwave works well—just cover to retain moisture and stir halfway through. If the casserole seems a bit dry, a splash of broth or milk added before reheating helps restore the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?

Absolutely! While broccoli is the star here, you can swap in cauliflower, green beans, or even asparagus. Just roast them using the same method to ensure similar texture and flavor integration.

Is Greek yogurt necessary in this casserole?

Greek yogurt adds a creamy tang and protein boost while keeping the dish lighter than traditional heavy cream or sour cream. If you prefer, full-fat yogurt or sour cream can be used, but Greek yogurt really complements the flavors beautifully.

Can I make this dish vegan?

With some swaps, yes. Use a plant-based milk, vegan cheese alternatives, and substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt. Make sure the broth is vegetable-based and salt levels adjusted accordingly.

How spicy does the cayenne pepper make the casserole?

The cayenne pepper is optional and used sparingly—just a pinch for a subtle warmth that enhances the savory notes without overpowering the dish. Feel free to omit it if you prefer no heat.

What type of quinoa works best?

Regular, tri-color, or white quinoa all work well. Just rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove the natural bitterness, ensuring a fluffy, flavorful foundation for the casserole.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about the Broccoli Quinoa Casserole with Cheesy Greek Yogurt Recipe that makes it a standout comfort food with nourishing ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or bringing a dish to share, this casserole offers easy prep and big flavor. I truly hope you give it a try and enjoy every cheesy, veggie-packed bite as much as I do!

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