Cheesy Black Bean & Quinoa Skillet Casserole

Prep Time:30 minutes Cook Time: 45 minutes Servings: 4 minutes

This Southwestern-inspired one-skillet casserole is stuffed with quinoa and plenty of fresh vegetables. Sharp Cheddar cheese flavors the filling and adds a layer of ooey-gooey melted cheese on top.

Ingredients:
  • 1⅔ cups water
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • ½ teaspoon salt, divided
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil or other neutral oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1½ cups corn kernels (from about 2 ears)
  • 1 poblano pepper, chopped
  • 1 medium tomato, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed
  • 1¼ cups shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro for garnish
  • 4 tablespoons salsa or pico de gallo for serving (optional)
Directions:
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
  2. Combine 1⅔ cups water, 1 cup quinoa and ¼ teaspoon salt in a medium saucepan; bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat, cover and simmer until the water is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork and partially cover.
  3. Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Add onion; cook, stirring, until starting to soften, about 3 minutes. Add garlic; cook, stirring, until fragrant, 30 seconds. Add 1½ cups corn, poblano, tomato, 2 teaspoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin and the remaining ¼ teaspoon salt; cook, stirring, until the vegetables have softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in 15 ounces beans, the cooked quinoa and ¾ cup cheese. Spread into an even layer and sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup cheese.
  4. Bake until the casserole is hot and the cheese has melted, about 15 minutes. Serve sprinkled with ¼ cup cilantro and with 4 tablespoons salsa (or pico de gallo) on the side, if desired.