Description
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.
Ingredients
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Leeks – 3 large (trimmed, cleaned, and sliced lengthwise or into chunks)
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Butter – 40g (about 3 tablespoons)
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Plain flour – 2 tablespoons
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Milk – 400ml (1¾ cups)
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Mature cheddar cheese – 100g, grated
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Dijon mustard – 1 teaspoon (optional, but adds flavor)
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Salt and black pepper – to taste
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Fresh thyme or parsley – for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep and Cook the Leeks
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Trim and wash the leeks well to remove any dirt between the layers.
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Slice them lengthwise or into thick rounds.
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Steam or boil the leeks for 5–7 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
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Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
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Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, whisking to form a roux.
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Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
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Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
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Add the grated cheese and mustard (if using), and stir until melted and smooth.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Combine and Bake
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Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F.
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Arrange the leeks in a baking dish and pour the cheese sauce evenly over the top.
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Optional: Sprinkle extra cheese or breadcrumbs on top for a golden crust.
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Bake for 20 minutes, or until bubbling and lightly browned on top.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
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Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
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Serve hot alongside roast chicken, beef, lamb, or on its own with crusty bread.