Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with a delicious twist on a classic favorite! This Quinoa Mac n Cheese is not just a healthier alternative; it's a creamy, cheesy delight that will have you coming back for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for families and foodies alike. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, you won't believe how easy it is to indulge guilt-free. Dive into this recipe and discover how to transform simple quinoa into a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bitter coating.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa has absorbed all the liquid and become fluffy.
- Remove the quinoa from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow any remaining moisture to be absorbed.
- In a separate small saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
- Add milk to the melted butter, stirring gently to combine.
- Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper, whisking to create a smooth sauce.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the milk mixture, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked quinoa, stirring thoroughly to ensure even coating.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnishing with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Rinse the Quinoa: Always rinse your quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. A fine-mesh strainer works best for this task.
- Use Vegetable Broth: For an extra layer of flavor, cook your quinoa in vegetable broth instead of water. This will infuse the grains with a savory taste that complements the cheese sauce beautifully.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or a spicy pepper jack for a unique twist.
- Creamy Consistency: If you prefer a creamier sauce, add a splash more milk to the cheese mixture. Just be sure to whisk continuously to achieve that velvety texture.
- Garnish for Flair: Elevate your dish by garnishing with extra cheese, fresh herbs, or even a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color and flavor.
- Leftover Magic: This dish makes fantastic leftovers! Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk to bring back the creaminess.
- Add Veggies: Boost the nutrition by mixing in some sautéed vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers before serving. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra greens!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 310kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 13g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
