When you’re craving something hearty yet wholesome, this Minced Pork and Vegetable Casserole with Quinoa is the kind of dish that checks every box. It combines juicy, seasoned minced pork with a medley of colorful vegetables, all baked together under a creamy cheese sauce that feels indulgent without being overwhelming. What makes this dish stand out is its balance: protein-packed pork, nutrient-rich veggies like broccoli and celery, and the nutty, fluffy quinoa that soaks up all the flavors. It’s the sort of recipe that feels perfect for family dinners, yet elegant enough to serve when you want to impress guests. The casserole has roots in rustic European cooking, where simple ingredients like pork, cream, and vegetables were layered together to create comforting meals. Pairing it with quinoa gives it a modern, health-conscious twist that makes it lighter and even more satisfying.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 400 g minced pork

• 1 egg

• 2 bell peppers, chopped

• 1 celery stalk, chopped

• 2–3 slices of bread, soaked in milk

• ½ cup milk

• 1 teaspoon oregano

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• Salt, to taste

• Black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 small head broccoli, cut into florets

• 2 garlic cloves (for broccoli sauté)

• 100 g processed cheese

• ½ cup cream

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 200 g shredded cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar)

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 cup quinoa

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• Fresh dill, chopped

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a pot, add 1 cup quinoa, 2 cups water, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon butter, and 1 minced garlic clove. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover, and cook for 15 minutes until fluffy. Set aside.

2. Make the Pork Mixture: In a large bowl, combine minced pork, 1 egg, soaked bread slices with milk, oregano, minced garlic, chopped celery, bell peppers, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

3. Sauté Broccoli and Garlic: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon butter and 2 tablespoons vegetable oil. Add broccoli florets and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until lightly tender but still bright green. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt processed cheese with cream over low heat. Stir until smooth and silky. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.

5. Assemble the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Grease a baking dish with butter or oil. Spread the pork mixture evenly across the base. Add the sautéed broccoli and garlic on top. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the vegetables. Sprinkle generously with shredded cheese.

6. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling, and the pork is cooked through.

7. Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top and serve hot alongside fluffy quinoa with dill.

Nutrients

• Protein: Minced pork, cheese, and quinoa provide excellent protein.

• Carbohydrates: Balanced from quinoa, bread, and vegetables.

• Fiber: Bell peppers, celery, and broccoli add digestive-friendly fiber.

• Vitamins: High in vitamin C (peppers, broccoli), vitamin K (dill, parsley), and B vitamins (pork, quinoa).

• Healthy Fats: From butter, cheese, and cream.

• Minerals: Magnesium, potassium, and calcium from quinoa, cheese, and vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is the kind of meal that makes everyone happy at the table. It’s filling but not overly heavy, and the balance of textures—from creamy cheese to tender pork and crunchy vegetables—keeps each bite interesting. You’ll love how the quinoa soaks up all the savory juices, making it more satisfying than serving plain rice or pasta. It’s also a flexible recipe, great for weeknight family dinners, but presentable enough to serve to friends at a gathering.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Casseroles have deep roots in European and American kitchens, where practicality and heartiness defined cooking. The combination of minced pork and vegetables reflects traditions of making the most of simple ingredients, often binding them with eggs, bread, and milk for richness. Adding quinoa gives the dish a modern twist, inspired by the growing popularity of ancient grains. This makes the recipe both comforting and contemporary, marrying old-world traditions with today’s health-conscious preferences.

Ingredient Spotlight

• Minced Pork: A versatile protein that absorbs flavors beautifully, making it perfect for casseroles.

• Quinoa: A powerhouse grain, naturally gluten-free, high in protein, and rich in essential amino acids.

• Broccoli: Provides color, crunch, and nutrients while balancing the richness of cheese and cream.

• Cheese: Both processed cheese for creaminess and shredded cheese for melt give this dish its signature comfort.

• Bread and Milk: Classic binding ingredients that make the pork mixture moist and tender.

• Herbs: Fresh dill and parsley brighten the dish, cutting through the creaminess.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This casserole keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store portions in airtight containers. Reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 15 minutes to maintain its texture, or microwave on medium for 2–3 minutes. Quinoa can be stored separately and reheated the same way. Avoid freezing the casserole with cream, as dairy tends to separate after thawing.

Common Variations to Try

• Different Protein: Swap pork with minced chicken, turkey, or beef.

• Vegetable Boost: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients.

• Cheese Swap: Try cheddar for sharpness, gouda for creaminess, or feta for tang.

• Low-Carb Version: Skip the bread in the pork mixture and reduce cream for a lighter casserole.

• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the pork mix.

Pairing Recommendations

This casserole pairs wonderfully with light sides like a green salad, roasted vegetables, or even pickled cucumbers for a tangy contrast. For drinks, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea balances the richness. Serving it with quinoa makes it a complete meal, but crusty bread works well if you want something extra to soak up the sauce.

Health Benefits

This dish brings together the best of both worlds: comfort and nutrition. Quinoa provides plant-based protein and fiber, keeping you full for longer. Broccoli and peppers contribute antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support immunity and overall health. Pork adds a rich source of protein and B vitamins, while fresh herbs like parsley and dill help with digestion. Though creamy and cheesy, the balance of vegetables and quinoa keeps it from feeling overly indulgent.

Conclusion

This Minced Pork and Vegetable Casserole with Quinoa is more than just a recipe—it’s a complete, balanced meal in one dish. The combination of flavors and textures makes it irresistible, while the inclusion of quinoa gives it a nutritious, modern twist. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal-prepping for the week, or hosting friends, this casserole is a reliable, flavorful choice. It celebrates the comforting traditions of home cooking while embracing today’s love for wholesome ingredients. Try it once, and it just might become a regular on your dinner table.