Quinoa Mac and Cheese

mac and cheese with quinoa and spinach in a skillet

5 from 1 vote

This healthy Quinoa mac and Cheese is filled with broccoli, spinach and plenty of cheddar cheese, and the majority of it can be prepped ahead of time. It's a delicious vegetarian and gluten free dinner recipe that the whole family will gobble up!

Prep Time5

Cook Time10

Total Time15

Course: dinner

Cuisine: American

Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian

Keyword: quinoa mac and cheese

Servings:

Calories: 712kcal

Author: Erin

Ingredients

4 cups quinoa cooked
1 cup broccoli chopped and cooked
2 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup yellow onion diced
3 garlic cloves minced
1 teaspoon dijon mustard
5 oz. spinach
2 cups almond milk or milk of choice
3 tablespoon cornstarch
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup breadcrumbs optional

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

First, cook the quinoa over the stove according to the package instructions. At this same time, you should cook the broccoli: either roast it, steam it or cook it in the Instant Pot. While those are cooking, whisk the milk and cornstarch together and set aside.
Next, heat oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté it for 2-3 minutes, then add the garlic and sauté for 2 more minutes until fragrant. Add the dijon and stir for about 30 seconds, then add in the spinach and cook it until it's wilted, about 1 minute.
Pour the milk mixture into the skillet and bring it to a low boil. Reduce it to a simmer, then add in HALF of the cheese, whisking constantly until it's melted. Then, stir in the remaining cheese until the cheese sauce is smooth; remove skillet from the heat.
Add the cooked quinoa and broccoli into the skillet, using a large spoon to stir so that the quinoa is completely coated in the cheese sauce.
OPTIONAL: Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and place the skillet under the broiler for 2 minutes until the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Enjoy!

Notes

*Calories are per serving and are an estimation

*Don't love broccoli or spinach? Try peas and kale instead.

*If you're looking for a mozzarella substitution, try parmesan or gruyere cheese.

*To make this recipe really quick, cook the quinoa and broccoli ahead of time (up to 2 days in advance) so they're ready to go when you want to make this.

Nutrition