Description
This Cheesy Crusted Caramelized Leek recipe combines slow-cooked, caramelized leeks with a rich, bubbly cheddar and parmesan cheese crust baked to golden perfection. It makes an irresistible side dish or savory topping that’s both creamy and full of deep, sweet flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Leeks and Seasoning
- 4 large leeks (white and light green parts only), sliced thinly
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking Fats
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cheese Topping
- 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place an oven-safe baking dish or cast-iron skillet on the middle rack to warm slightly, ensuring the cooking dish is at an ideal temperature when ready.
- Caramelize Leeks: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Add the sliced leeks along with salt, sugar, and black pepper, stirring to coat. Cook the leeks, stirring occasionally, until they soften and turn golden brown, about 25–30 minutes, allowing the natural sugars to caramelize fully for a rich flavor.
- Prepare Baking Dish: While the leeks cook, lightly grease your warmed baking dish or cast-iron skillet with a bit of butter or oil to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup afterward.
- Assemble Cheesy Leeks: Transfer the caramelized leeks evenly into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the grated cheddar and parmesan cheese evenly on top. If using, sprinkle fresh chopped thyme over the cheese for a herbal note.
- Bake: Bake the dish uncovered in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes until the cheese has melted completely and starts to bubble around the edges, melding with the caramelized leeks below.
- Broil for Crust: Switch your oven to broil and broil the dish for 2–3 minutes, watching carefully, until the cheese forms a golden brown, crisp crust without burning, adding texture and visual appeal.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the dish cool slightly. Serve warm as a flavorful side dish, a spread over toast, or as a savory filling in tarts or casseroles.
Notes
- Be patient while caramelizing the leeks; slow cooking brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Using a cast-iron skillet helps retain heat evenly and can go straight from stovetop to oven.
- If fresh thyme is not available, dried thyme can be used, though fresh herbs provide brighter flavor.
- Watch carefully during broiling to prevent burning the cheese crust.
- This dish also works well with other cheeses such as Gruyère or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
