Lasagna Quinoa Bake with Chicken, Spinach, and Mushrooms
Try this Lasagna Quinoa Bake with Chicken, Spinach, and Mushrooms recipe.
Try this Lasagna Quinoa Bake with Chicken, Spinach, and Mushrooms recipe.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons crushed red pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan
- 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa rinsed and drained
- 4 ounces baby bella mushrooms (about 6 mushrooms) stems removed and finely chopped
- 5 ounces (1 clamshell) baby spinach
- 1 28- ounce can crushed tomatoes (i recommend san marzano.)
- 8 basil leaves finely chopped (plus extra for servin
- 6 ounces grated mozzarella cheese (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 1/4 cup whole-wheat panko breadcrumbs
- Carbohydrate 42.6054054880598 g
- Cholesterol 112.671656432723 mg
- Fat 18.6526584240753 g
- Fiber 4.89535001880692 g
- Protein 34.2588192489659 g
- Saturated Fat 5.89592241040207 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -6 serving (356g)
- Sodium 509.485693031917 mg
- Sugar 37.7100554692529 g
- Trans Fat 1.35047323611586 g
- Calories 474 calories
Step-by-step
- In a small pot, bring the quinoa and 1½ cups water to a boil. Turn the heat down to the lowest setting, cover the pot with a lid, and cook for 14 minutes until all the liquid has been absorbed. Let the quinoa rest, covered, for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- Meanwhile, pre-heat your oven to 375 degrees.
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. When hot, add the onion, garlic and mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms are tender.
- Add the ground chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring and breaking up the meat with a spatula or wooden spoon, until no longer pink.
- Add the spinach and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until wilted.
- Stir in the tomatoes, basil, salt, red pepper, oregano, and sugar. Simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.
- Fold the quinoa, ricotta, and ½ cup of grated mozzarella into the sauce and mix until well combined.
- Transfer the quinoa mixture to a medium baking dish. Smooth the top.
- Sprinkle the remaining grated mozzarella over the filling in an even layer. Then add the Parmesan and Panko.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is lightly browned and the cheese is bubbling.
- Let your lasagna quinoa bake cool for 5 minutes before serving. Feel free to garnish with extra basil and crushed red pepper.
Lasagna Quinoa Bake: A Weeknight Wonder
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner is always a challenge. That's why I've become a huge fan of one-pan meals, and this lasagna quinoa bake is a new favorite. It's packed with flavor, protein, and vegetables, and it's surprisingly easy to throw together even on the busiest of weeknights. Forget spending hours in the kitchen; this recipe lets you enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant-quality time commitment.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can easily customize it to fit your preferences and what you have on hand. Don't have baby spinach? Use regular spinach, kale, or even a mix of greens. Feeling adventurous? Add some sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for an extra burst of flavor. The possibilities are endless! And the best part? The leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making it a perfect meal-prep option for busy lunches.
The Magic of Quinoa
I love using quinoa as the base for this dish. It's a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids, and it's also a good source of fiber. This makes it a much healthier alternative to traditional lasagna noodles, which are often high in carbohydrates and refined grains. Quinoa adds a nice nutty flavor and a satisfyingly chewy texture to the bake.
A Flavor Explosion
The combination of ground chicken, spinach, mushrooms, and a rich tomato sauce creates a flavor profile that's both comforting and exciting. The herbs and spices—oregano, basil, red pepper flakes—add depth and complexity, while the creamy ricotta cheese provides a delightful contrast in texture. The mozzarella and Parmesan cheese create a beautiful, bubbly topping that's irresistible.
From Kitchen to Table: A Step-by-Step Guide
The recipe itself is straightforward, even for novice cooks. First, you'll cook the quinoa according to package directions. While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the sauce by sautéing the onions, garlic, and mushrooms. Then, add the ground chicken and cook until browned. Stir in the spinach, tomatoes, and seasonings, and let it simmer until thickened. Finally, combine the cooked quinoa, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese with the sauce. Pour the mixture into a baking dish, top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan, and bake until golden brown and bubbly.
Beyond the Weeknight: A Versatile Dish
This lasagna quinoa bake isn't just a weeknight wonder; it's perfect for a casual weekend dinner with family and friends. Its hearty and satisfying nature makes it ideal for potlucks or gatherings, and it can easily be scaled up or down to accommodate any size crowd. Plus, the leftovers are wonderful for lunch, making it a highly efficient meal to prepare.
Tips and Tricks for Success
Here are a few tips to ensure your lasagna quinoa bake turns out perfectly:
- Don't overcook the quinoa: Overcooked quinoa can become mushy, so be sure to follow the package directions carefully.
- Use good-quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will significantly impact the flavor of your dish. Opt for fresh, high-quality produce and flavorful herbs and spices.
- Don't be afraid to experiment: This recipe is highly customizable. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or seasonings to create your own unique version.
- Let it cool slightly before serving: This will allow the bake to set properly and prevent it from being too hot to eat.
This lasagna quinoa bake is a testament to the fact that healthy and delicious food doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. It's a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. So, go ahead, give it a try, and you'll soon discover why it's become a staple in my busy household.
