Easy Quinoa Pizza Bowls Recipe

Introduction

Easy Quinoa Pizza Bowls combine the wholesome goodness of quinoa with all your favorite pizza flavors in a convenient, bowl-friendly dish. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner that feels special without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices or cooked sausage crumbles (optional)
• 1 cup diced bell peppers
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid has been absorbed.
3. Step 3: Fluff the quinoa with a fork and stir in the marinara sauce, dried Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using.
4. Step 4: Divide the quinoa mixture evenly into oven-safe bowls or ramekins.
5. Step 5: Top each bowl with diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, black olives, pepperoni or sausage if using, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the top of each bowl.
7. Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Step 8: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Swap out bell peppers and mushrooms for your favorite vegetables like zucchini or spinach for a different flavor profile.
• Use ground turkey or plant-based sausage to make it leaner or vegetarian-friendly.
• Add a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes after baking for an extra kick.
• Prepare the quinoa mixture a day ahead to save time; assemble and bake just before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly, about 10-15 minutes. You can also microwave for quicker reheating, though the texture may be softer.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?

Yes, couscous, rice, or even cauliflower rice can be used as a substitute, though cooking times and liquid amounts may vary.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! Simply omit the pepperoni or sausage and consider adding extra vegetables or a plant-based protein to keep it hearty.

Easy Quinoa Pizza Bowls Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 90 reviews

These Easy Quinoa Pizza Bowls combine the wholesome goodness of quinoa with classic pizza flavors for a nutritious and satisfying meal. Featuring a fluffy quinoa base cooked in broth, layered with marinara sauce, fresh vegetables, optional meat toppings, and melted cheeses, this recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner that’s both delicious and nutritious.

• Author: Rico
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 27 minutes
• Total Time: 37 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Quinoa Base

• 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Toppings

• 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices or cooked sausage crumbles (optional)
• 1 cup diced bell peppers
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Garnish

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the pizza bowls.
2. Cook Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is fully absorbed.
3. Mix Quinoa with Sauce: Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and stir in the marinara sauce, dried Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you choose to use them. This will infuse the quinoa with a rich, tangy flavor.
4. Prepare Bowls: Divide the quinoa mixture evenly into oven-safe bowls or ramekins, creating individual portions that resemble pizza bases.
5. Add Toppings: Top each bowl with diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, black olives, and if desired, mini pepperoni slices or cooked sausage crumbles. Finally, generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over each bowl.
6. Add Parmesan: Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the mozzarella to add depth and a savory crust when baked.
7. Bake: Place the bowls on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve the quinoa pizza bowls warm for a comforting meal.

Notes

• You can easily make this recipe vegetarian or include meat by adding sausage or pepperoni.
• Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or chicken broth for added flavor.
• Mix and match toppings based on your preference; other pizza toppings like onions, spinach, or artichokes work well.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
• Serve with a side salad or garlic bread to make it a complete meal.

Keywords: quinoa pizza bowls, easy quinoa recipes, gluten free pizza, healthy pizza, baked quinoa