I have to say, this is probably one of my most favourite recipes to date, which is funny because this was actually a “fridge dump” recipe that came about because I really needed to go to the supermarket but also didn’t want to go to the supermarket…because who enjoys that trip? I needed to use up a sweet potato, I always have cans of black beans and tomatoes on hand, and quinoa is my ultimate go-to staple ingredient. Thirty minutes later, this Quinoa Enchilada Skillet was born. While I love Vegan Enchiladas, this dish has all of the flavour but with half of the effort! I love that you just put all your ingredients into your skillet, let it cook, and get to serve up a filling, protein-packed dish that works as a side or an entree. And, even better, you can also use this as a fridge dump recipe, swapping out the ingredients I used with what you happen to have on hand. Oh, and I also have to mention that this Quinoa Enchilada Skillet is ideal for meal prep lunches. It’s one of those glorious recipes that tastes even better after a day or two in the fridge!
Notes on Ingredients
Please note that this is important information on the ingredients and instructions and the FULL recipe with amounts and details can be found DOWN BELOW (scroll to it) in the recipe card.
Sweet potato – I like to peel it, but if you prefer the skin on, you can skip that step. Garlic Uncooked quinoa Vegetable broth – Use homemade vegetable broth or store-bought. Ground cumin Paprika Chili powder Salt and pepper Enchilada sauce – Both red and green enchilada sauce will work in this recipe, so use whichever you prefer. Black beans Corn kernels – Fresh, frozen, or canned. Diced tomatoes Vegan shredded cheese Your favourite Tex-Mex toppings
Is Vegan Cheese Like Real Cheese?
I promised you a cheesy Quinoa Enchilada Skillet, but also a vegan one. The key is choosing a quality vegan cheese. You want a vegan cheese that melts for this recipe, so shredded cheeses are your best bet because they’re formulated for melting, just like real cheese. You’ll find that the texture and taste isn’t exactly like the original, but today’s vegan cheeses come pretty darn close. I like a pepper jack or cheddar for this skillet.
How to Make Quinoa Enchilada Skillet
Ready for an easy, cheesy Mexican-inspired dinner? Here’s what you’ll need to do. Cook the sweet potato and garlic. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a 12-inch skillet set over medium heat. Stir in the sweet potato and garlic, and cook for about 2 minutes, continuing to stir to keep the garlic from burning. Bring to a boil. Stir in the quinoa, vegetable broth, salt, pepper, ground cumin, paprika and chili powder; bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until most of the liquid has been absorbed by the quinoa and the quinoa has popped and looks fluffy. Finish. Add the enchilada sauce, black beans, corn kernels, and diced tomatoes. Stir and cook for another 5 minutes, or until heated through. Sprinkle the cheese over the top of the dish and cover the skillet to melt it.
Tips for Success
This is an easy weeknight dinner recipe, but these simple tips will make sure your Quinoa Enchilada Skillet turns out perfect!
Rinse the quinoa. This helps to remove the bitter taste that quinoa sometimes has. Cut the sweet potato into even pieces. This will ensure that it’s all done cooking at the same time. Don’t rush the quinoa. The water should be absorbed before you move onto the next step, otherwise the sauce and spices will be diluted and the dish will end up mushy and flavourless.
Serving Suggestions
This Quinoa Enchilada Skillet is delicious on its own, but I like to serve it with parsley, diced or sliced avocados, and vegan sour cream or Greek yogurt on top. You can use it as a stuffing for bell peppers or zucchini, or serve it over tortilla chips for protein-packed vegan nachos.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Leftover Quinoa Enchilada Skillet will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet set over medium heat until warmed through.
Can This Recipe Be Frozen?
Yes! This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. I recommend letting it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating according to the instructions above. Enjoy friends! If you make this vegan quinoa enchilada skillet recipe, please snap a photo and tag #jessicainthekitchen on Instagram! We’d also love it if you would leave a comment below, and give the recipe a rating! Thanks so much!
