Leeks Braised with Parmesan Cheese
Transform humble leeks into an elegant and flavorful dish with this recipe for Leeks Braised with Parmesan Cheese. Delicately caramelized in a buttery olive oil base, the leeks are gently braised in savory chicken or vegetable broth until irresistibly tender. Finished with a generous layer of melted, golden Parmesan cheese and an optional sprinkle of fresh thyme, this dish strikes the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication. Whether served as a luscious side or paired with crusty bread for a light entrée, this recipe elevates seasonal produce with simple yet refined techniques. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s a stress-free way to impress at your next dinner gathering!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 whole (medium-sized) leeks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions
Trim the leeks, removing the dark green tops and root ends. Slice each leek in half lengthwise and rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove any grit. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the butter and olive oil, allowing the butter to melt completely.
Place the leeks cut-side down in the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the cut sides are lightly golden and caramelized.
Flip the leeks over and season them with salt and black pepper. Pour the chicken or vegetable broth into the pan, ensuring the leeks are partially submerged.
Bring the broth to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and braise the leeks for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and easily pierced with a knife.
Preheat the broiler on your oven. Once the leeks are tender, remove the lid and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the leeks.
Place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Remove the skillet from the oven and garnish the leeks with fresh thyme leaves, if desired. Serve warm as a side dish or with crusty bread for a light entrée.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
910 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 63.9 g | 82% | |
| Saturated Fat | 32.5 g | 162% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 142 mg | 47% | |
| Sodium | 3486 mg | 152% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 58.2 g | 21% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.4 g | 26% | |
| Total Sugars | 16.2 g | ||
| Protein | 39.6 g | 79% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1146 mg | 88% | |
| Iron | 9.8 mg | 54% | |
| Potassium | 863 mg | 18% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
