Cheesy Leek and Ham Bake
Total Time: 40 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
This delightful recipe has been a cherished family favorite for over three decades. Discovered during my early years in England, when I was just learning to navigate the kitchen, it came from the back of a tin of cooked ham. What began as a simple, beginner-friendly dish quickly became a staple not only in my own home but also in my mother’s kitchen. Perfect for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to those evenings when cooking feels like too much effort, this Cheesy Leek and Ham Bake is both effortless and satisfying. 🌿🧀🍽️
Ingredients:
- 3 large leeks, sliced
- 8 oz cooked ham, roughly chopped
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
- 3 tablespoons plain flour
- 3 cups milk
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Additional cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter or margarine over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and finely chopped onions. Cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 8-10 minutes.
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Prepare the Casserole Dish: Once the leeks and onions are tender, transfer them to an ovenproof casserole dish, reserving any juices left in the pan.
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Incorporate the Ham: Add the roughly chopped ham to the casserole dish with the leeks and onions. Stir to combine.
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Make the White Sauce: Using the same skillet, add a little extra butter if needed. Sprinkle in the plain flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
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Add Cheese to the Sauce: Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the grated cheddar cheese until it has fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
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Assemble the Dish: Pour the cheesy sauce over the leeks, onions, and ham in the casserole dish. Spread evenly.
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Top and Bake: Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the dish. If you like, add a little extra cheese on top for a richer finish. Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) and bake for 20 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy and the cheese is bubbling and melted.
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Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with boiled new potatoes, a fresh green salad, and some peas for a complete meal.
Enjoy this comforting and easy-to-make casserole that has stood the test of time! 🌟🍴
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 512.2
- Fat: 27.6g
- Saturated Fat: 16.5g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 762.9mg
- Carbohydrates: 44.5g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 22g
This recipe yields 6 servings, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or for meal prepping.
