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As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, the kitchen becomes a sanctuary for warmth and nourishment. Seasonal cooking is not just a trend; it’s a celebration of the abundance that each season brings. Autumn, in particular, is a time for hearty meals that embrace the rich flavors of the harvest. The Autumn Harvest Crockpot Casserole is a dish that beautifully encapsulates this idea, combining the best of fall's offerings into a nutritious, comforting meal that is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

Autumn Harvest Crockpot Casserole

Embrace the flavors of autumn with the comforting Autumn Harvest Crockpot Casserole. This easy-to-make dish blends wholesome ingredients like quinoa, seasonal vegetables, and apples for a nutritious, hearty meal perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. The combination of herbs and spices adds depth, while the convenience of a crockpot allows you to enjoy delicious home-cooked comfort with minimal effort. Celebrate the season's bounty and nourish your family with this delightful casserole.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup quinoa, rinsed

2 cups vegetable broth

1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced

1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved

1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces

1 apple, cored and diced (preferably a sweeter variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp)

1 onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

1 teaspoon cinnamon

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, can substitute with dairy-free cheese)

1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for an added crunch)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Base: In a large bowl, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. This will be the base of your casserole.

    Layer the Vegetables: Add the butternut squash, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, green beans, apple, onion, and garlic over the quinoa. Make sure to distribute them evenly for uniform cooking.

      Season it Up: Sprinkle the dried thyme, rosemary, cinnamon, salt, and pepper over the top of the layered vegetables. If you want a hint of sweetness, feel free to adjust the spices to your taste.

        Mix in the Cheese: If you’re using the mozzarella cheese, you can sprinkle half of it over the seasoned vegetable layer to infuse cheesy goodness into the casserole. Reserve the rest for the topping.

          Cook: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until all vegetables are tender and the quinoa has absorbed the broth.

            Finish up: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top and cover again to allow it to melt. If you like a crunchy topping, you can also add the chopped nuts at this stage.

              Serve: Once cooked, stir the casserole gently to mix everything together. Serve warm as a hearty main dish or a delicious side. Enjoy your Autumn Harvest Crockpot Casserole!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 6-8 hours | 6 servings