Baked Quinoa Mac & Cheese

This Mac n' Cheese will leave you feeling so ultra satisfied, you'll never miss the heavy pasta. Finding all these different ways to use quinoa is quite fun! Can be used in place of rice, pasta, even used in desserts! Please share your recipe ideas where you have used quinoa...I'd love to know!!

1 tbsp olive oil

3-4 green onions

1/2 cup diced tomato (use whatever veggies you like, green bell pepper would be good!)

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 1/2 cups quinoa, rinsed & drained

Salt & Pepper to taste, I added close to 1 tsp but also added a little seasoning salt too

1/8 tsp cayenne pepper- add more if you want extra heat

1/2 tsp Italian seasonings

2 eggs

 1 cup milk- use whatever milk you like

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese plus more for sprinkling on top

Buttered & toasted panko bread crumbs (totally optional)

Rinse & drain quinoa & set aside. In a large skillet over medium heat saute tomatoes, onions, & garlic in olive oil. (or whatever veggies you are using)Cook about 4 minutes. Add drained quinoa and cook uncovered, about3-4 minutes more or until quinoa is opaque. Add 3 cups of water ans season with salt & pepper and other seasonings. Once it starts bubbling, cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer about 10 minutes or until most of the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat & let rest 5 minutes. In a bowl whisk together the eggs & milk. Grease a 13x9 inch baking dish. Combine the egg/milk mixture & the cheese with the quinoa/veggie mixture. Fold together to melt the cheese a bit. Transfer to prepared baking dish & sprinkle with panko bread crumbs if  using. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes or until golden around the edges. Top with extra cheese and green onions! Salsa or hot sauce would also be yummy over top!!