Easy Cheesy Vegan Quinoa Pizza Bites: The Ultimate Protein-Packed Snack for Any Occasion
Prepare to satisfy all your pizza cravings with these incredibly easy and utterly delicious Quinoa Pizza Bites! Bursting with flavor, packed with plant-based protein, and perfectly sized for snacking, appetizers, or meal prep, these bites are a game-changer. Whether you’re hosting a party, packing lunches, or simply looking for a wholesome weeknight treat, these vegan delights are sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
Quinoa is renowned for its versatility and nutritional benefits, often appearing as a hearty base for stir-fries, vibrant salads, and Buddha bowls. However, if you’re looking to truly elevate this superfood, transforming it into irresistible, cheesy vegan Quinoa Pizza Bites is an absolute must. This innovative recipe showcases quinoa in a fun, bite-sized form that everyone will adore.
Much like my popular Cauliflower Pizza Bites, these mini snacks offer a delightful chewy texture and capture all the classic, comforting flavors you’d expect from a traditional pizza. They’re so incredibly moreish that stopping at just one will prove to be a delightful challenge – and that’s perfectly fine, because they’re guilt-free and utterly satisfying!
What makes this recipe truly stand out is its incredible adaptability. Serve these tasty bites alongside other crowd-pleasers like Sticky Sesame Cauliflower Wings or Loaded Sweet Potato Skins for an epic game day spread that will impress all your guests. For a lighter, yet equally satisfying option, tuck them into your weekly meal prep lunches, paired with a fresh, simple side salad. They are universally loved by kids and adults alike, freezer-friendly for ultimate convenience, and straightforward enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. The versatility and sheer deliciousness of these bites make them a winning recipe in every aspect!
Even better, these Quinoa Pizza Bites are a blank canvas for your favorite pizza toppings. You can easily customize them with a variety of add-ins to suit any taste preference. Below, I’ll share some of my go-to ideas for enhancing these already fantastic bites, ensuring every batch is uniquely yours.
Essential Ingredients for Vegan Quinoa Pizza Bites
Crafting these delectable pizza bites requires a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Below, you’ll find important notes on each component. For the complete recipe with precise measurements and detailed instructions, please scroll down to the dedicated recipe card.
- Cooked Quinoa: This forms the protein-rich base of our pizza bites. Ensure your quinoa is fully cooked and cooled before mixing. If you need a refresher, here’s a guide on how to cook quinoa perfectly every time. The fluffier the quinoa, the better the texture of your bites will be.
- Vegan Shredded Cheese: A key component for that classic cheesy pizza experience. I highly recommend using a high-quality vegan mozzarella, Parmesan, or a combination of both. Look for brands known for good meltability to achieve that satisfying gooey texture.
- Flax Egg: This acts as a binder, helping the quinoa and other ingredients hold together. It’s a fantastic plant-based alternative to traditional eggs. Learn how to make a flax egg easily at home. If you prefer, a store-bought vegan egg replacer can also be used following package instructions.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients. Adjust to your personal taste.
- Ground Pepper: Adds a subtle peppery kick. Freshly ground pepper is always recommended for the best flavor.
- Marinara Sauce: This provides the foundational pizza flavor. You can opt for a high-quality store-bought marinara or elevate your bites with homemade marinara sauce for an even fresher taste. Remember to reserve some extra for dipping!
- Garlic Powder: A staple in any good pizza recipe, garlic powder adds a warm, savory depth of flavor.
- Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary is crucial for that authentic Italian pizza aroma and taste.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: (Optional) For those who love a little heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes will add a delightful spicy kick to your bites. Adjust the amount based on your preference for spice.
Exciting Add-In Ideas to Customize Your Pizza Bites
If you’re a fan of a truly “loaded” pizza, these bites are perfect for incorporating additional ingredients. Feel free to get creative and personalize your Quinoa Pizza Bites with your favorite vegan toppings. Here are some fantastic ideas to get you started:
- Sautéed Spinach: Finely chop and lightly sauté fresh spinach to reduce its water content before mixing it in. It adds a lovely earthy flavor and an extra boost of nutrients.
- Finely Chopped Vegetables: Small, diced pieces of mushrooms, green bell peppers, or onions can add delightful texture and fresh flavors. Ensure they are very finely chopped so they integrate well into the small bites. You might want to pre-sauté them slightly to soften.
- Crumbled Vegan Sausage: For a hearty, savory addition, crumble and cook your favorite vegan sausage before adding it to the mixture. This is excellent for enhancing the “meatiness” of the bites.
- Chopped Vegan Pepperoni: Small pieces of vegan pepperoni can provide that classic, slightly spicy and salty pepperoni flavor that many pizza lovers adore.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed or rehydrated) offer an intense, sweet-tart flavor that complements the Italian seasoning beautifully.
- Kalamata Olives: Sliced Kalamata olives can add a briny, savory punch.
- Fresh Herbs: Beyond Italian seasoning, a sprinkle of fresh basil or oregano before baking can really brighten the flavors.
Can I Substitute Couscous for Quinoa in this Recipe?
Couscous can sometimes serve as a good alternative to quinoa in terms of its appearance and how it holds shape in many dishes. However, for these Quinoa Pizza Bites, I generally do not recommend substituting couscous. The primary reason is nutritional: quinoa is a complete protein, offering a substantial protein boost to these bites, which is a key benefit of this recipe. Couscous, while a grain, does not provide the same level of protein. If you opt for couscous, your pizza bites will unfortunately lose a significant part of their protein punch and may also have a different binding quality. For the best results and to maintain the nutritional value, stick with quinoa.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Vegan Quinoa Pizza Bites
Get ready for pizza time! Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of delicious and healthy Quinoa Pizza Bites.
Step 1: Prepare Your Workstation. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (205°C). While the oven heats up, generously grease a 12-cup mini muffin pan with a little oil or cooking spray. A well-greased pan (or lining with parchment paper strips, which I’ve found works exceptionally well for easy removal) is crucial for ensuring your bites don’t stick.
Step 2: Create the Quinoa Mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients except for 2 tablespoons of the vegan shredded cheese (this portion is reserved for topping later). Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to thoroughly mix everything together. Ensure all ingredients are well-distributed, forming a cohesive mixture that will hold its shape.
Step 3: Assemble the Pizza Bites. Carefully divide the quinoa mixture evenly among the 12 cups of your mini muffin pan. It’s important to pack the mixture in very tightly. Use the back of a small spoon or your fingers to firmly compress the mixture into each cup. This step is essential for ensuring the bites hold their shape once baked.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection. Place the filled muffin pan into your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The edges should start to look slightly golden and firm. After the initial baking, remove the pan from the oven, sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegan cheese over the top of each bite, and return it to the oven under the broiler for just 30 to 60 seconds. Keep a very close eye on them during this stage, as vegan cheese can melt and crisp up quickly!
Step 5: Cool and Serve. Once removed from the oven, allow the Quinoa Pizza Bites to cool in the muffin pan on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes. This cooling period is crucial, as it allows them to firm up and makes them much easier to remove without crumbling. Once cooled slightly, gently remove them from the pan. Serve these delightful bites warm with an extra side of marinara sauce for dipping!
Expert Tips for Perfectly Baked Quinoa Pizza Bites
Achieving perfect, bite-sized pizza snacks is simple with a few key tips. Here’s how to ensure your Quinoa Pizza Bites are consistently delicious and easy to manage:
- Choosing the Right Vegan Cheese: The market offers a vast array of vegan cheeses, and selecting the best one can significantly impact your pizza bites. For this recipe, prioritize a vegan cheese that is specifically designed to melt well. Shredded varieties of mozzarella or a dairy-free Parmesan are usually ideal. Brands that mimic traditional cheese’s melt and stretch are perfect for achieving that satisfying gooey topping and helping to bind the bites together. Experiment with a few brands to find your favorite!
- Ensuring They Hold Together: The combination of the flax egg and the vegan cheese is essential for binding the quinoa mixture. However, the most critical step for structural integrity is how you pack them into the muffin cups. Don’t be shy – use the back of a small spoon, your thumb, or even a mini tamper to really press and compress the mixture firmly into each cup. The denser the packing, the less likely they are to crumble when removed.
- Effortless Removal from the Pan: To make removing your pizza bites a breeze, ensure your muffin pan is thoroughly greased, or use parchment paper strips that extend slightly above the cup edges (which acts as little handles). After the cooling period, if any bites seem a bit stuck, gently run a thin butter knife or a small offset spatula along the edges of each cup. This will help loosen them from the pan, allowing them to pop out cleanly and intact. Patience during the cooling phase is also key here!
Storing and Reheating Your Leftover Quinoa Pizza Bites
These Quinoa Pizza Bites are not only delicious fresh from the oven but also store and reheat wonderfully, making them a fantastic option for meal prep or quick snacks throughout the week.
- Storing Leftovers: Once completely cooled, place any leftover Quinoa Pizza Bites in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. For best freshness, consider placing a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb any excess moisture.
- Reheating from the Refrigerator: When you’re ready to enjoy them again, there are several convenient reheating methods:
- Microwave: For a quick reheat, microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook, as this can make them tough.
- Air Fryer: For crispier results, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pizza bites on a baking sheet and heat for 10 to 15 minutes, or until they are warmed throughout and the cheese is melted and slightly bubbly. This method generally provides the best texture.
Freezing for Future Enjoyment
This recipe is perfectly suited for freezing, allowing you to prepare a larger batch and have healthy, delicious snacks ready whenever you need them. Freezing these Quinoa Pizza Bites is an excellent way to save time and ensure you always have a wholesome option on hand.
- Freezing Instructions: After the Quinoa Pizza Bites have completely cooled, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for about 30 minutes until solid. This prevents them from sticking together. Once firm, transfer the frozen bites to an airtight freezer-safe container or a large freezer bag. For added protection against freezer burn and to prevent sticking, place parchment paper between layers. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Reheating from Frozen: You can reheat frozen Quinoa Pizza Bites using the same methods listed above (microwave, air fryer, or oven). Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time, typically 5-10 minutes longer, depending on the method and your appliance. Ensure they are heated through to the center before serving.
Enjoy these delightful, protein-packed vegan quinoa pizza bites, friends! If you try this recipe, please capture a photo and share it on Instagram, tagging #jessicainthekitchen. We would also be thrilled if you could leave a comment below and give the recipe a rating. Your feedback is greatly appreciated!
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Quinoa Pizza Bites
12
servings
5 minutes
15 minutes
20 minutes
Pin Recipe
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Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- ½ cup vegan shredded cheese + 2 tablespoons for topping
- 1 flax egg
- ¼ teaspoon salt, to taste
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper
- 3 tablespoons marinara sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 teaspoons italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
- marinara sauce, for dipping
Instructions
How to Cook Quinoa
- Mix 1/2 cup uncooked and washed quinoa with 1 cup water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil first and then lower heat. Cook the quinoa for about 15 minutes until fluffy. You should get about 1 1/2 cups of cooked quinoa (you only need 1 cup for the recipe, so you could always make extra pizza bites or use it another time).
Quinoa Pizza Bites
- Preheat oven to 400°F/200°C.
- Grease a 12 mini muffin tin pan OR line it with parchment paper with strips over the sides. I found the parchment paper worked best for me!
- Mix all of the ingredients together, except the extra 2 tablespoons of cheese.
- Put a tablespoon into each muffin tin, packing them in.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes.
- Remove from oven and top with remaining 2 tablespoons of cheese. Broil for about 30 seconds to 1 minute (please watch them, they burn easily).
- After broiling, allow to cool on a wire rack for about 15 minutes and then remove from pan.
- Serve with marinara sauce. Enjoy!!
Notes
How to freeze: Place the Quinoa Pizza Bites in an airtight container or freezer bag with parchment paper between the layers to keep them from sticking. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months and they can be reheated with the same methods listed above, just adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
If you’re making this for kids or you don’t like spice, the red pepper flakes can get spicy when baked, so you can leave them out.
Calories:
41
kcal
,
Carbohydrates:
5
g
,
Protein:
1
g
,
Fat:
2
g
,
Saturated Fat:
1
g
,
Sodium:
117
mg
,
Potassium:
52
mg
,
Fiber:
1
g
,
Sugar:
1
g
,
Vitamin A:
37
IU
,
Vitamin C:
1
mg
,
Calcium:
16
mg
,
Iron:
1
mg
Disclaimer: Although jessicainthekitchen.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, kindly note that these are only estimates. Nutritional information may be affected based on the product type, the brand that was purchased, and in other unforeseeable ways. Jessicainthekitchen.com will not be held liable for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on nutritional information. If you need to follow a specific caloric regimen, please consult your doctor first.
American
Appetizers, Snacks
Jessica Hylton