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Quinoa Pizza Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 90 reviews

Quinoa Pizza Casserole offers a healthier, gluten-free alternative to traditional pizza. This nutritious dish combines protein-packed quinoa with sautéed vegetables, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses for a flavorful, pizza-inspired casserole. Easy to prepare and customizable, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, delivering all the classic pizza flavors with a wholesome twist.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Casserole:

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
  • 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, thyme)
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

  • Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
  • Extra mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Quinoa: Rinse quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness using a fine-mesh strainer. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup quinoa and 2 cups water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed and quinoa is tender. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic for 5-7 minutes until vegetables soften and become fragrant. Add chopped spinach and cook another 1-2 minutes until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Remove from heat.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, sautéed vegetables, and marinara sauce. Stir until evenly mixed, then add dried Italian seasoning and mix again. Stir in 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy base. Transfer mixture evenly to a greased 9×9-inch or 8×8-inch baking dish.
  4. Bake the Casserole: If desired, sprinkle an additional ½ cup mozzarella cheese on top for extra cheesiness. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake casserole for 30-35 minutes until hot, bubbly, and cheese is melted and golden on top. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for color and aroma. Slice the casserole into squares and serve warm to enjoy a nutritious, pizza-inspired meal.

Notes

  • Make it vegan by substituting mozzarella and Parmesan with plant-based cheese alternatives.
  • Add cooked chicken, turkey, or ground beef for extra protein.
  • Freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in fridge before reheating.
  • Use homemade marinara sauce for fresher flavor.
  • Swap vegetables as desired: zucchini, mushrooms, olives, or artichokes work well.
  • Add jalapeños or extra red chili flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat frozen casserole covered at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through.

Keywords: quinoa, pizza casserole, gluten-free, healthy, vegetarian, baked casserole, Italian seasoning, mozzarella, meal prep

Find it online: https://foodbylina.com/quinoa-pizza-casserole-recipe/