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To create a delicious Cheesy Spinach and Sausage Quinoa Bake, it’s essential to understand the role each ingredient plays in contributing to both flavor and nutrition. This dish features a base of quinoa, complemented by the freshness of spinach, the heartiness of sausage, and the creaminess of cheese, all brought together with a blend of aromatic seasonings.

Cheesy Spinach and Sausage Quinoa Bake

Discover the perfect dish for your next family gathering with this Cheesy Spinach and Sausage Quinoa Bake. This wholesome recipe combines the protein-packed goodness of quinoa with fresh spinach, savory sausage, and a blend of creamy cheeses. It's not only rich in flavor but also packed with nutrients, making it ideal for meal prepping or cozy weeknight dinners. Dive into the easy preparation and explore how to make this delightful bake that everyone will love. It's sure to become a go-to favorite!

Ingredients
  

1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained

2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed

4 cups fresh spinach

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Cook the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable (or chicken) broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid has been absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

      Sauté vegetables and sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook until softened (about 4-5 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

        Cook the sausage: Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through (around 7-10 minutes).

          Add spinach and seasonings: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with red pepper flakes (if using), oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.

            Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sausage and spinach mixture, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir until evenly mixed.

              Transfer to baking dish: Pour the quinoa mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

                Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the quinoa mixture.

                  Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                    Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | 6 servings