Leeks Au Gratin
Leeks au Gratin features tender leeks baked with a creamy cheese sauce and crispy bread crumbs, making a comforting side dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the leeks; place them in a baking dish.
- In a 1-quart saucepan over low heat, melt the butter.
- Stir in the flour, dry mustard, and salt until smooth.
- Gradually stir in the milk; cook, stirring until thickened.
- Stir in the shredded Cheddar cheese until melted.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the cooked leeks.
- Sprinkle the bread crumbs over the top.
- Broil until the crumbs are browned and crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh leeks and ensure they are thoroughly cleaned to remove any grit. If you want a lighter dish, consider substituting half-and-half for the milk. You can also experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere or mozzarella for a unique twist. If you prefer a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour.
Serving Suggestions
Leeks au gratin make a wonderful side dish, pairing beautifully with roasted meats or a hearty vegetarian main. Consider serving it alongside a Fancy Salad Or Dessert for a balanced meal. This dish can also be enjoyed as a light vegetarian entree with some crusty Povatica Bread on the side for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the leeks au gratin in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, then uncover for a few minutes to crisp the top.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Leeks Au Gratin contains roughly 1384 calories, with 29g protein, 146g carbohydrates, and 74g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (59% of the Daily Value), iron (55% of the Daily Value), and calcium (35% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare leeks au gratin ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of broiling. Assemble the leeks with the cheese sauce and bread crumbs, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply broil until the top is golden brown and crispy.
What can I use instead of Cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for alternatives to Cheddar cheese, consider using Gruyere for a nutty flavor, or mozzarella for a milder taste. Both will melt beautifully and complement the leeks. You can also mix different cheeses for added depth.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and texture. Just make sure to cook them slightly before mixing with the leeks to ensure everything is evenly cooked.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).