Quinoa Enchilada Casserole

This slow-cooker quinoa enchilada casserole delivers comforting flavor with minimal effort and maximum weeknight ease.

By Maddie Augustin | Experience Life

Makes6 servings
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time3 to 6 hours (depending on slow-cooker setting)

Ingredients
Directions

Ingredients

Enchilada Sauce

3 tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
3 tbs. chili powder
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. onion powder
1 tsp. Mexican oregano (or Italian oregano)
½ tsp. ground cumin
½ tsp. kosher salt
2 tbs. tomato paste
2 tbs. cornstarch
3 cups vegetable broth

Quinoa Casserole

2 bell peppers (any color), diced
1 large yellow onion, diced (discover what “The Best Way to Chop and Cook Onions for Maximum Flavor” is)
1 15-oz. can black beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups water
1 cup dry quinoa
1 cup frozen corn
8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Optional Toppings

Sliced avocado
Lime juice
Fresh cilantro

Directions

Prepare the enchilada sauce:

STEP 1

Heat the oil in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the seasonings and stir into a thick paste. Cook until fragrant, about one minute.

STEP 2

Add the tomato paste and cook until caramelized, about one to two minutes more. Add the cornstarch. Whisking constantly, slowly add the vegetable broth, breaking up any clumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about five minutes.

Prepare the casserole:

STEP 1

Add the peppers, onion, beans, water, quinoa, corn, and enchilada sauce to a slow cooker. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.

STEP 2

Top with the cheddar cheese and cook on high for three hours or low for six hours. Serve with optional toppings.

Nutritional information

By Maddie Augustin

Maddie Augustin is a recipe developer who is passionate about creating recipes worth repeating. With degrees in food engineering and nutrition, she blends science with creativity to make dishes that are nourishing, approachable, and delicious — celebrating seasonal ingredients and the joy that comes from sharing good, healthy food. Find more of Maddie’s recipes at maddieaugustin.com.