Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Casserole

Name: Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 yellow bell pepper, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 small onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup feta cheese (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Favorites

I love making Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Casserole because it’s not only healthy but incredibly satisfying. The vibrant colors of the roasted vegetables mixed with fluffy quinoa create a gorgeous dish that’s perfect for any occasion. As someone who enjoys both cooking and eating, I find that this recipe truly delivers—it's packed with nutrients and flavor. Plus, it's a wonderful way to use up leftover veggies, making it a go-to meal for weeknights or potlucks.

Created by

Beatrice Holloway

Last updated on 2026-01-19T23:59:34.573Z

I always enjoy the comforting warmth of a casserole, and this Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Casserole never disappoints. As I experimented with different vegetables, I discovered that the combination of zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes brings a beautiful sweetness that pairs perfectly with the nuttiness of quinoa. Roasting the veggies is essential; it enhances their flavors and creates a delightful texture.

This casserole not only looks stunning but also incorporates a great balance of protein and fiber, making it a nutritious option for quiet dinners or lively gatherings. I often add a sprinkle of feta cheese on top before baking for an extra burst of flavor, but it’s equally delicious vegan!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Colorful and nutritious way to use up leftovers
Hearty texture with quinoa and roasted veggies
Perfect for meal prep and easy to reheat

The Importance of Roasting

Roasting the vegetables is a crucial step in enhancing the flavors of this casserole. As the veggies cook, they caramelize, developing a sweet and earthy taste that balances beautifully with the nutty quinoa. Aim for a golden-brown color, which typically takes about 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C). If you notice some edges starting to char, don’t worry—it adds a depth of flavor, but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Choosing the right vegetables can also influence the final taste. While zucchini and bell peppers are fantastic, feel free to swap them out for other seasonal or leftover options like eggplant or carrots. Just be mindful of cooking times; denser vegetables may require longer roasting to achieve that perfectly tender texture.

Quinoa: A Versatile Base

Using vegetable broth instead of water to cook the quinoa is key; it infuses each grain with flavor, making it a delicious base for the casserole. Rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. If you need a gluten-free alternative, quinoa is an excellent choice as it is naturally gluten-free and full of protein—perfect for vegetarian diets.

Quinoa also absorbs flavors well, so consider adding other herbs or spices during cooking for more complexity. Fresh basil or thyme, for example, can bring a fresh, aromatic touch to the dish. When cooked, the quinoa should be fluffy and the grains separated—if it’s too mushy, it could mean too much liquid was used, so adjusting the broth-to-quinoa ratio in future attempts may be necessary.

Perfecting Your Casserole

When combining the roasted vegetables with the cooked quinoa, make sure to stir gently to avoid breaking the delicate tomatoes. If you opt to add feta cheese, it not only adds creaminess but also provides a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the roasted vegetables. For a dairy-free version, consider using nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative to maintain that satisfying richness.

If you’d like to prepare this dish in advance, feel free to assemble everything without baking, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven for about 15 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. This meal also freezes beautifully, so if you have leftovers, portion them out in airtight containers and store them for up to three months.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful casserole that packs flavor and nutrients.

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 zucchini, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup feta cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Mix and match your favorite vegetables for a personalized touch!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious casserole.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Roast the vegetables

In a bowl, combine the diced zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, onion, and garlic. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with oregano, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes.

Cook the quinoa

While the vegetables are roasting, cook the quinoa in vegetable broth according to package instructions.

Combine ingredients

Once the vegetables are tender and quinoa is cooked, mix them in a large baking dish. Add feta cheese if using, and stir to combine.

Bake

Spread the mixture evenly, and bake in the oven for an additional 10 minutes.

Serve

Once done, remove from oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful and healthy casserole warm!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute any vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand. Adding spices like cumin or paprika can give your casserole an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Casserole can easily stand alone as a hearty main dish, but it pairs beautifully with a light salad or a side of garlic bread for a more filling meal. Consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for those who like an extra kick; it enhances the overall flavor profile while complementing the roasted veggies.

For a flavor twist, top the casserole with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of tahini before serving. These additions not only amp up the taste but also provide a rich creaminess that balances the dish wonderfully.

Dietary Substitutions

If you're looking to make this casserole vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative. The dish will remain satisfying thanks to the nutritious quinoa and the abundance of roasted vegetables. If you're avoiding carbs, consider using cauliflower rice in place of quinoa for a lighter version that still delivers on flavor and texture.

For those watching their sodium intake, opting for low-sodium vegetable broth and reducing the salt in the recipe can make this dish more heart-healthy without sacrificing taste. Just be sure to taste as you go, as broth flavor varies.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find your casserole is too dry after baking, it could be due to excess evaporation during cooking or not enough liquid in the quinoa. A simple fix is to add a splash of vegetable broth before reheating to restore moisture. Conversely, if it’s too wet, try baking it a bit longer uncovered. This will help evaporate some of the excess liquid while crisping up the top.

Lastly, if your vegetables seem limp instead of tender, they might not have been roasted long enough. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the roasting time; they should be both tender and slightly charred for optimal flavor and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 2 days.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is gluten-free, making this casserole a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just ensure it's stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

It pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up the flavors.