Cheesy Sausage, broccoli and Quinoa Casserole

How to Make

• Step 1: Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

• Step 2: In a large saucepan or pot on medium high heat add the water and the quinoa and bring to a boil; reduce heat; cover and simmer 10-15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.

• Step 3: Remove pan from heat and let stand 5 minutes.

• Step 4: On medium high heat, heat a Dutch oven and then add 1 tablespoon of oil, swirling to coat and then add the next 3 ingredients (onion-sausage) and cook 5-10 minutes, stirring to crumble the sausage.

• Step 5: With a slotted spoon remove mixture to a bowl.

• Step 6: Keeping the pan on heat add the next 3 ingredients (flour - garlic) and cook, stirring for a few minutes and then add the milk and stock and bring to a boil; cook for a few more minutes, whisking constantly.

• Step 7: Reduce heat to medium and stir in the broccoli, 2 teaspoons thyme, 3/8 teaspoon salt, 3/8 teaspoon pepper and the red pepper flakes; cover and cook 2 minutes.

• Step 8: Stir in quinoa and sausage mixture.

• Step 9: Spray 2 (8 inch) square micro-safe glass baking dishes with cooking spray and divide mixture between the two dishes.

• Step 10: In a bowl combine 1 1/2 teaspoon oil and the panko along with 1 teaspoon thyme, 1/8 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon pepper and the cheese.

• Step 11: Sprinkle mixture evenly over casseroles.

• Step 12: Bake for 15-20 minutes or until browned.

• Step 13: ***If you want to freeze one or both of the casseroles: cool the unbaked casseroles completely, cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months.

• Step 14: Remove the foil and microwave on high for 20 minutes or until thawed.

• Step 15: Cover with foil and bake at 375 degrees F for 25 minutes and then broil for 5 minutes or until golden brown.