Comforting Casseroles #1
Hearty, protein-rich, satisfying meal
One of the benefits of living in South Georgian Bay is its four season destination appeal. This means it’s easy to love and embrace the Winter season because there’s SO much to do. You can go Skiing or snowboarding in The Blue Mountains and Beaver Valley. Engage in a snowy sport like skating or snowshoeing, or get adventurous skidooing on one of the many trails. Interested in something a little more low key? Try sipping cider in one of the outdoor igloos at Thornbury Cidery. 🙂
What is the perfect end to a day of outdoor adventure? A delicious, preprepared casserole ready to just put in the oven! Warm, satisfying, and sure to please the entire family.
Our first casserole is a Mexican Quinoa Casserole. This can be prepared the day before and sit in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Traditional Mexican spices add big flavour to this healthy dish and although the original recipe is vegetarian, you can add ground turkey, chicken or beef for a heartier, more protein rich meal. I’ve used both beef and chicken and they were equally delicious. I hope you enjoy it!
Mexican Casserole
Ingredients
Taco Seasoning
- 1 Tbsp chili powder
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- pinch of cayenne pepper
Casserole
- 1 cup of water or stock of your choice
- 1/2 cup quinoa
- 1 package of ground meat of your choice (omit this if you prefer vegetarian)
- 2 cups diced zucchini
- 2 bell peppers dices (colors of your choice)
- One 14 oz can black beans or navy beans
- 1/4 cup sliced green onion
- 1 cup prepared salsa (mild, medium or hot)
- 1 cup shredded aged cheddar cheese
- Sour cream (optional)
Directions
- Step 1
Combine all the ingredients for the taco seasoning in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Step 2
Bring the water/stock to a boil in a small saucepan. Reduce to a simmer cover and cook for approx 10 minutes. Turn the heat off and leave the covered sauce pan on the burner for an additional 4 minutes. Remove the lid and fluff with a fork. Set aside.
- Step 3
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish and spread the zucchini and peppers in the bottom. Sprinkle with 1 tsp if the seasoning.
- Step 4
Fully cook the ground meat in a skillet. Once cooked, add cooked quinoa, beans, green onion and rest of seasoning. Mix well.
- Step 5
Place quinoa mixture overtop of vegetables in casserole dish. Spread a layer of the prepared salsa over the mixture and top with the cheese. Bake on the center rack for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese has melted and the casserole is hot throughout. Serve immediately and top with sour cream.
