By Looking for a fun and healthier way to enjoy nachos? These cheesy quinoa nachos offer a tasty twist on the classic dish by using quinoa as a hearty, wholesome base. This recipe brings together layers of rich cheese, seasoned veggies, and protein-packed ingredients for a comforting yet nutritious meal or snack. It’s perfect for sharing with family or enjoying on a relaxed night in.
Ingredients
Quinoa Base:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp olive oil
Toppings:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 small jalapeño, sliced (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Sauce:
- 1 tbsp butter or vegan butter
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (gluten-free flour works too)
- 1 cup milk or dairy-free milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or preferred cheese
- A pinch of salt
Optional Add-Ons:
- Sliced avocado or guacamole
- Chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Greek yogurt or dairy-free sour cream
- Salsa or hot sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
Begin by rinsing the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a saucepan, combine quinoa with water or broth, a pinch of salt, and olive oil. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Once the liquid is absorbed, remove it from the heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Veggie Mixture
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic, black beans, corn, jalapeño, and tomatoes. Sprinkle with cumin and paprika. Cook for 4–5 minutes to blend the flavors. Add salt and pepper as needed. Set aside once done.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about a minute, stirring constantly. Slowly add the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Let the sauce thicken, then reduce the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Add a pinch of salt if needed.
Step 4: Assemble the Nachos
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the cooked quinoa on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Press it down slightly with a spoon or spatula to form a flat layer. Spoon the veggie and bean mixture evenly over the quinoa. Pour the cheese sauce on top. If you like extra cheesy nachos, sprinkle some more shredded cheese over everything.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Place the tray in the oven and bake for 10–15 minutes, just enough to warm everything through and melt the top layer of cheese. Once done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes.
Step 6: Add Final Toppings
Finish by adding any toppings you like—sliced avocado, a squeeze of lime, chopped cilantro, salsa, or a dollop of Greek yogurt. Serve while warm and enjoy every flavorful bite!
Recipe Tips
- For extra crispiness, bake the quinoa layer alone for 10 minutes before adding toppings.
- To keep it vegan, use dairy-free butter, milk, and cheese alternatives.
- Add meat if desired, such as grilled chicken or ground beef, for a non-vegetarian option.
- For meal prep, cook the quinoa and toppings ahead of time, then just assemble and bake when ready to eat.
Conclusion
These homemade cheesy quinoa nachos are a delicious way to enjoy a lighter, more nutritious version of a comfort food favorite. With layers of cheesy goodness, hearty beans, fresh veggies, and a satisfying quinoa base, this recipe is both filling and full of flavor. It’s a fun dish for parties, family dinners, or weekend treats—and best of all, it’s easy to make and customize.
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