Description
A hearty and healthy Black Bean Quinoa Enchilada Bake that’s packed with Mexican flavors, colorful veggies, and gooey cheese. Perfect for a vegetarian, protein-packed weeknight dinner that the whole family will love!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- Grains:
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- Vegetables:
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, diced (seeds and ribs removed)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 orange or yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- Flavoring:
- Juice of 1 small lime
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/3 cup chopped cilantro
- Beans & Sauce:
- 30 oz canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups enchilada sauce
- Cheese:
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese
- Optional Toppings:
- Sliced green onions
- Avocado slices
- Sour cream
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook the Quinoa:
- In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water to a boil over medium heat. Lower the heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
- Sauté the Veggies:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion, garlic, and jalapeño until softened (about 2–3 minutes).
- Add the bell peppers, corn, lime juice, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for another 5 minutes. Stir in chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, sautéed veggies, and enchilada sauce. Mix in 1/2 cup of the shredded cheese.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Cover with foil.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the bake cool for about 10 minutes. Add desired toppings such as sliced green onions, avocado, sour cream, and fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Make it Spicy: Add an extra jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier dish.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cheese and ensure the enchilada sauce is vegan.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.