Cheesy Mushroom and Broccoli Quinoa Casserole

Remember the Broccoli and Cheese Casserole of yesteryear?  White rice, cream-of-something soup, processed American cheese, probably frozen broccoli?

Welcome to the 21st century!  This is an updated "healthified" version of that family staple and church-ladies cookbooks.  Bring it back to the table!  Wonderful quinoa, fresh vegetables, and an easy sauce to bind it together.  Es muy delicioso!!!

CHEESY MUSHROOM and BROCCOLI QUINOA CASSEROLE (6 servings)

3 3/4 cups chicken broth, divided
1 1/2 cups dry quinoa
2 cups small broccoli florets
4 Tbsp butter, divided
8 oz sliced mushrooms
1 shallot or 1/4 small onion, chopped
S&P
3 tsp minced fresh garlic
2 Tbsp AP flour
1 cup milk (regular or 2%)
3 oz shredded Jack cheese
3 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 350F.  Spray an 8x8 baking dish with nonstick spray then place on top of a baking sheet and set aside.

Bring 2 3/4 cups chicken broth to a boil in a medium-sized saucepan then add quinoa, place a lid on top, turn heat down to medium, and then simmer until nearly all of the liquid has been absorbed and quinoa is tender, about 20 minutes.  Add broccoli then place lid back on top, remove from heat, and let steam for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, melt 2 Tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.  Add mushrooms and shallots, season with S&P, then saute until mushrooms are golden brown.  Add garlic then saute for one more minute.

Add remaining 2 Tbsp butter then sprinkle flour when melted and saute for one minute.  Slowly stream in remaining 1 cup chicken broth and milk while whisking to avoid lumps.  Season generously with S&P then bring mixture to a bubble while stirring constantly.  Turn heat down to medium then simmer until thick and bubbly, 5 minutes.

Remove from heat then stir in the broccoli and quinoa, and half of the cheese then scoop mixture into prepared baking dish.  Sprinkle remaining cheese on top then bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is golden brown and bubbly.  Let sit for 10 minutes before scooping and serving.

Recipe Source:  http://iowagirleats.com/2015/02/23/cheesy-mushroom-broccoli-quinoa-casserole/