Description

This Buffalo Cauliflower Quinoa Casserole is a flavorful and hearty vegan dish that combines protein-rich quinoa with spicy buffalo sauce-coated cauliflower. Baked to perfection with almond milk and vegan yogurt, this casserole is perfect for a nourishing lunch or dinner, offering a spicy kick and creamy texture topped with optional vegan cheese.

Ingredients

Scale

Grains and Vegetables

1 cup quinoa
3 cups cauliflower florets

Wet Ingredients

1.5 cups almond milk
½ cup vegan unsweetened yogurt (coconut preferred)
½ cup buffalo sauce

Toppings (Optional)

1 cup vegan shredded cheese

Instructions

Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375ºF (190ºC) and allow it to fully preheat to ensure even baking.
Prepare the base: In a 10.5 x 7.5 inch baking dish, combine the quinoa and cauliflower florets evenly. This will form the hearty base of the casserole.
Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat together the almond milk, vegan unsweetened yogurt, and buffalo sauce until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Combine and assemble: Pour the wet mixture over the quinoa and cauliflower in the baking dish. Stir gently to ensure everything is evenly coated and mixed. If using, sprinkle the vegan shredded cheese evenly on top.
Bake: Place the dish on the center rack of the oven and bake for 45 minutes until the quinoa is cooked through and the majority of the liquid has been absorbed. The casserole should be slightly bubbling and the cheese melted if added.
Serve: Remove from oven and serve immediately. Optionally, add toppings such as nutritional yeast or a little more buffalo sauce for extra flavor.

Notes

Use full florets of cauliflower for better texture, not finely chopped to avoid mushiness.
Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to your spice preference; less for milder, more for spicier.
Vegan shredded cheese is optional but adds a nice melty texture and flavor.
Make sure quinoa is rinsed thoroughly before use to remove bitterness.
This casserole reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Buffalo cauliflower, quinoa casserole, vegan casserole, healthy casserole, spicy vegan dish, gluten free, plant based dinner