Corn Quinoa Casserole No Canned Soup Wellplated Com

An abundance of sweet corn (like my other favorite Corn Casserole), zucchini, and peppers! An abundance of healthy whole grains! And, by way of its nature as a casserole, a deliciously gooey abundance of CHEESE. If you’re looking for an easy, healthy, family-friendly casserole, this corn quinoa casserole is it! If the word “casserole” concerns you, don’t be worried. Too often, the word “casserole” conjures foreboding images of mysterious ingredients disguised as carefully as possible beneath a mask of cheese. Not so with today’s cheesy corn quinoa casserole (or this Broccoli Quinoa Casserole). Fear not—you won’t find any packets of processed sauce mixes or cans of congealed “cream of” canned soup. (You won’t find them in my favorite Healthy Green Bean Casserole, either.) All you’ll find is lean white meat chicken and plenty of veggies…beneath the quintessential casserole ingredient: a generous layer of cheese. (I DO have a soul, after all.)

How to Make Corn Quinoa Casserole

This simple casserole recipe can be easily adapted to suit any veggies you have lurking in your refrigerator or garden. Here in Wisconsin, we are currently up to our ears in summer sweet corn (pun TOTALLY intended), so it plays the starring role in this comforting corn casserole recipe with quinoa and chicken. (Fresh summer corn is also a real treat in this Grilled Corn Salad.)

The Ingredients

Corn. The star of the show. Choose fresh summer corn off the cob, if possible. You can also swap for frozen corn that has been thawed and drained.Quinoa. A healthy, plant-based protein option that’s delicious, filling, and healthy. (Try it in this Broccoli Quinoa Casserole too.)Chicken. My addition to add extra bulk and lean protein to the recipe.

Vegetables. To keep this cheesy corn quinoa casserole healthy, I packed it with plenty of added veggies, like diced red bell peppers and summer zucchini.Chicken Broth + Milk. Our liquids that add moisture and creaminess.Flour + Butter. Make a simple roux to thicken the casserole and give it body.Green Onions + Garlic. For a little zippy pizazz.Herbs. A combo of basil and oregano gives the dish a little extra dash of summertime flavor.

The Directions

Storage Tips

To Store. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.To Reheat. Warm this corn quinoa casserole in a 350-degree F oven until heated through. You may also microwave individual portions until steaming.To Freeze. This casserole can be frozen fully baked or unbaked. Let thaw in the refrigerator overnight prior to baking or reheating.