Leeks Au Gratin
Description
Leeks Au Gratin is a comforting and elegant side dish that transforms humble leeks into a rich, creamy delight. Tender leeks are simmered until crisp-tender and then enveloped in a velvety sauce made with skim milk, flour, and sharp Gruyere cheese. The dish is finished with a golden, buttery breadcrumb topping that adds a satisfying crunch to every bite. Perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe balances mild sweetness from the leeks with savory, cheesy depth.Directions
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Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
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Bring 1 inch of water to a boil in a large saucepan. Add the sliced leeks, cover, and cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until crisp-tender. Drain well.
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In a small bowl, mix the dry bread crumbs with melted margarine to prepare the crumb topping. Set aside.
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In a 2-quart saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of margarine over low heat.
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Stir in the flour, salt, and pepper. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the margarine is fully absorbed and the mixture is smooth.
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Gradually stir in the skim milk. Increase heat to medium and bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
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Boil and stir for 1 minute to thicken the sauce.
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Remove from heat and stir in the shredded Gruyere cheese until melted and smooth.
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Stir the cooked leeks into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
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Spray a shallow 1-quart casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. Pour the leek mixture into the dish.
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Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the top.
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Bake uncovered for about 25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12 servings
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 451.7kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15.0g24%
- Saturated Fat 7.6g38%
- Cholesterol 26.1mg9%
- Sodium 4178.4mg175%
- Total Carbohydrate 46.2g16%
- Dietary Fiber 9.2g37%
- Sugars 10.8g
- Protein 10.7g22%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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