Go Back
In today's fast-paced world, finding a nutritious, delicious, and easy-to-prepare meal is essential for busy families. The One-Pan Cheesy Beef and Quinoa Bake is the perfect solution, combining lean ground beef, wholesome quinoa, and vibrant vegetables all baked together in a single dish. This recipe not only offers great flavor but also provides a balanced meal that’s packed with protein and fiber. In this blog post, we’ll explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and the health benefits of this delectable dish, making it a must-try for your weeknight dinners.

One-Pan Cheesy Beef and Quinoa Bake

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this One-Pan Cheesy Beef and Quinoa Bake! Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy recipe combines lean ground beef, nutritious quinoa, and colorful vegetables, all baked together to create a delicious, hearty meal. Packed with protein and fiber, it satisfies your hunger while delivering essential nutrients. Follow our step-by-step guide to whip up this wholesome dish, and enjoy a flavorful dinner with minimal cleanup!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 lb lean ground beef

1 cup quinoa, thoroughly rinsed and drained

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 bell pepper, diced (your choice of color)

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups beef broth

1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp chili powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided

1 cup diced tomatoes (with juices)

Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature by the time you're ready to bake.

    Sauté the Beef: In a large, oven-safe skillet or pan, add the lean ground beef. Cook over medium heat, stirring regularly, until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If there is any excess fat in the pan, carefully drain it off.

      Add Aromatics: Incorporate the diced onion and bell pepper into the skillet. Sauté together for about 3-5 minutes, allowing them to soften. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, letting it release its fragrant aroma.

        Combine Ingredients: Stir in the rinsed quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

          Bake the Dish: Once the mixture starts to simmer, evenly sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid or tightly with aluminum foil. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid has been absorbed.

            Add More Cheese: Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Take off the lid or foil, and give the mixture a gentle stir to combine everything again. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese, then return the skillet to the oven uncovered. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

              Garnish and Serve: After the final baking, remove the skillet from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, then serve warm and enjoy!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 50 min | 6 servings

                  - Presentation Tips: For a beautiful finishing touch, consider serving the bake directly in the skillet or transferring it to a large serving dish. A sprinkle of extra cilantro on top can add freshness and color.