Jamie Oliver Leeks in Cheese Sauce Recipe

When you’re after a side dish that’s creamy, comforting, and a little indulgent, this Jamie Oliver Leeks in Cheese Sauce is a winner. It transforms humble leeks into something special—soft, buttery, and smothered in a rich, cheesy béchamel.

What is Jamie Oliver’s Leeks in Cheese Sauce?

Jamie Oliver Leeks in Cheese Sauce is a classic British side dish where tender leeks are gently baked in a homemade cheese sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and a generous helping of mature cheddar. The leeks are softened first, either by boiling or sautéing, then nestled into the sauce and baked until bubbling and golden. It’s a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that elevates any meal.

Other Jamie Oliver Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Stuffed Chicken Thighs
• Jamie Oliver Trevor’s Chicken

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Creamy and full of flavor – Rich cheese sauce and sweet leeks
• Perfect side for roast dinners – Pairs well with meat or poultry
• Simple ingredients – Uses everyday staples
• Make-ahead friendly – Can be prepped in advance
• Family favorite – Even picky eaters enjoy it
• Vegetarian-friendly – No meat required

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver’s Leeks in Cheese Sauce

• Leeks – 3 large (trimmed, cleaned, and sliced lengthwise or into chunks)
• Butter – 40g (about 3 tablespoons)
• Plain flour – 2 tablespoons
• Milk – 400ml (1¾ cups)
• Mature cheddar cheese – 100g, grated
• Dijon mustard – 1 teaspoon (optional, but adds flavor)
• Salt and black pepper – to taste
• Fresh thyme or parsley – for garnish (optional)

Equipment Needed

• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Baking dish
• Knife and chopping board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Grater

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Leeks in Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Prep and Cook the Leeks

• Trim and wash the leeks well to remove any dirt between the layers.
• Slice them lengthwise or into thick rounds.
• Steam or boil the leeks for 5–7 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

• Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
• Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, whisking to form a roux.
• Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
• Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
• Add the grated cheese and mustard (if using), and stir until melted and smooth.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine and Bake

• Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F.
• Arrange the leeks in a baking dish and pour the cheese sauce evenly over the top.
• Optional: Sprinkle extra cheese or breadcrumbs on top for a golden crust.
• Bake for 20 minutes, or until bubbling and lightly browned on top.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
• Serve hot alongside roast chicken, beef, lamb, or on its own with crusty bread.

What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver Leeks in Cheese Sauce

• Roast chicken or turkey – Rich, creamy contrast to lean meat
• Grilled sausages or pork chops – Comfort food pairing
• Baked salmon or cod – Works well with mild fish
• Mashed potatoes or roast potatoes – Classic combination
• Buttered peas or green beans – Keeps the plate colorful
• Crusty bread or dinner rolls – Great for mopping up the sauce
• Lentil or vegetable bake – For a vegetarian pairing

Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Leeks in Cheese Sauce

• Use mature cheddar for deeper flavor – Mild cheese can get lost in the sauce
• Clean the leeks thoroughly – Dirt often hides between layers
• Don’t overcook the leeks – They’ll finish softening in the oven
• Whisk the sauce constantly – Prevents lumps and burning
• Add a pinch of nutmeg or paprika – For subtle warmth
• Top with breadcrumbs and extra cheese – For a crispy topping
• Let it rest for a few minutes after baking – The Sauce thickens as it cools slightly

Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver’s Leeks in Cheese Sauce

• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach – Boosts nutrition and flavor
• Swap cheddar for Gruyère or Red Leicester – Try different cheese profiles
• Make it gluten-free – Use GF flour and check your cheese label
• Top with crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs – For crunch
• Include cooked bacon or pancetta bits – For added savoriness
• Stir in a splash of white wine to the sauce – Adds depth
• Add a layer of sliced tomatoes – Brightens the dish

Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver Leeks in Cheese Sauce

• Cool completely before storing – Prevents sogginess
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge – Keeps for 2–3 days
• Avoid freezing – The sauce may split when thawed
• Store leftovers with sauce – Keeps leeks moist
• Label and date if prepping ahead – For easy planning

Best Practices to Reheat Jamie Oliver Leeks in Cheese Sauce

• Reheat in the oven at 170°C (340°F) for 10–15 minutes, covered with foil
• Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to avoid hot spots
• Add a splash of milk when reheating – It helps loosen the sauce
• Reheat until piping hot throughout – Especially for make-ahead servings
• Top with fresh herbs again before serving – For color and aroma

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Leeks in Cheese Sauce Healthier?

• Use half-fat milk or a smaller portion of cheese – Lightens the sauce
• Swap butter with olive oil or a plant-based alternative
• Skip the breadcrumb topping – Reduces calories
• Use reduced-fat cheese – Still flavorful but lighter
• Serve with a large portion of steamed greens – To balance the richness
• Cut the salt if using salty cheese – Keeps sodium in check
• Use wholemeal flour for extra fiber – If not gluten-free

Nutrition Value (per serving, approx.):

• Calories: 310
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Sugar: 7g
• Protein: 11g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fiber: 3g

FAQs

Do I need to cook the leeks before baking them in cheese sauce?

Yes, it’s best to steam or boil the leeks for a few minutes before baking. This ensures they are tender and evenly cooked once combined with the sauce.

What cheese works best for leek and cheese sauce?

Mature cheddar is ideal as it melts smoothly and adds strong flavor. Alternatives like Gruyère or Red Leicester also work well for variation.

Why is my cheese sauce grainy or split?

A grainy sauce can result from overheating the cheese or using high heat. Always add the cheese off the heat and stir until just melted to maintain a creamy texture.

Can I make Jamie Oliver’s leeks in cheese sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve, adding 5–10 extra minutes to the baking time if cold from the fridge.

Final Words

There’s something deeply satisfying about a dish like this, Jamie Oliver Leeks in Cheese Sauce—rich, creamy, and perfect for those days when you want your meal to feel a little extra cozy. It’s a classic side that pairs beautifully with all kinds of mains, yet it’s strong enough to stand on its own.

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