Quinoa Black Bean Casserole 

This quinoa black bean casserole is one of those easy, comforting dinners that works perfectly on busy nights. It’s hearty, protein-packed, and feels cozy without needing any meat — exactly what a good vegetarian quinoa casserole should be.

If you’re craving something warm, filling, and simple, this quinoa casserole recipe checks all the boxes.

Before You Start

Preheat your oven and grab a large baking dish — everything mixes right in one bowl, no extra mess.

Ingredients  

• 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
  
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  
• 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  
• 1½ cups vegetable broth
  
• 1 cup salsa
  
• 1 teaspoon cumin
  
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
  
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  
• Salt and pepper to taste
  
• 1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  

Instructions

1. Mix the base
   In a large bowl, stir together quinoa, black beans, corn, broth, salsa, and all seasonings. Everything should look evenly combined and slightly soupy — that’s what cooks the quinoa.
   
2. Transfer and cover
   Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
   
3. Bake
   Cover tightly with foil and bake at 375°F for 35–40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the quinoa looks fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
   
4. Add cheese
   Remove foil, sprinkle cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until melted and bubbly.
   
5. Rest briefly
   Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving so it sets up nicely.
   

Why This Works for Busy Nights

• One bowl, one pan
  
• No meat prep
  
• Hands-off baking time
  
• Budget-friendly ingredients
  
• Filling enough for seconds
  

Variations

• Add diced bell peppers or onions
  
• Swap salsa for enchilada sauce
  
• Use pepper jack for heat
  
• Stir in cooked chicken if desired
  

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

FAQ

Can I make this ahead?
Yes — assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Is quinoa fully cooked in the oven?
Yes, as long as it stays covered and the liquid is fully absorbed.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze baked and cooled portions for up to 2 months.

Warm Closing

This quinoa black bean bake is one of those dependable dinners you’ll come back to again and again — easy, cozy, and always satisfying.

👉 Save or print the full recipe here for your next busy night.