Slow-Cooker Creamed Leeks and Gruyère Gratin Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To enhance the flavor profile, consider adding a small amount of finely minced garlic or shallots to the leek mixture before starting the slow cooker.

These aromatics will soften during the cooking process and add a subtle depth that complements the sweetness of the leeks and the nuttiness of the Gruyère cheese perfectly.

If you prefer a more pronounced crust on top, you can transfer the finished gratin to a broiler-safe dish and place it under a high broiler for two to three minutes after the slow cooking is complete. This step will brown the brioche crumbs and create a delightful, golden-brown cheese crust on the surface of the gratin.

Variations

• Bacon and Leek Gratin: Add 4 slices of cooked, crumbled bacon to the mixture before slow cooking. The smoky saltiness of the bacon provides a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the leeks and the richness of the Gruyère, making the dish even more substantial and savory.
• Herb-Infused Gratin: Incorporate a tablespoon of fresh chopped chives or tarragon into the final mixture. These herbs add a bright, fresh flavor that cuts through the creaminess of the sauce and complements the delicate flavor of the leeks perfectly.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Reheat

Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout.

Allow any leftovers to cool completely at room temperature for no more than two hours. Transfer the gratin to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. The dish can be kept for up to three days. Ensure the container is sealed properly to prevent the leeks from absorbing other odors from the refrigerator.

This dish is excellent for making ahead as the flavors continue to meld in the refrigerator. Simply prepare the gratin as directed, let it cool, and store it.

When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in a microwave-safe dish until warmed through, then add the fresh brioche crumbs and thyme just before serving.

Serving ideas

Serve this gratin hot as a sophisticated side dish for roasted meats such as steak, pork chops, or roast chicken.

Its creamy texture and rich flavor profile make it an ideal accompaniment to dishes that benefit from a decadent, cheesy pairing. It also works beautifully alongside a crisp green salad with a sharp vinaigrette to provide a balanced contrast.

For a more casual meal, consider serving the gratin with crusty French bread or toasted baguette slices, which are perfect for scooping up the creamy leek and cheese sauce.

The combination of the silky leeks and the crunch of the toasted bread makes for a comforting and satisfying dish that is sure to be appreciated by everyone at the table.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow-Cooker Creamed Leeks and Gruyère Gratin

Prep 10 minCook 3 hRest 5 minTotal 3 h 15 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 6 cups sliced leeks
• 6 tbsp butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded Gruyère
• 1/4 tsp grated nutmeg
• 1/2 cup toasted brioche crumbs
• fresh thyme for serving

Instructions

1. Place the sliced leeks into the ceramic insert of the slow cooker. Add the butter pieces, heavy cream, shredded Gruyère, and the grated nutmeg over the top of the leeks.
2. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to the low heat setting. Cook for three hours, or until the leeks have fully softened and the cheese has melted into a silky, bubbling sauce.
3. Once finished, stir the gratin gently to combine the sauce. Top each portion with a sprinkle of toasted brioche crumbs and fresh thyme leaves before serving immediately while hot.

Contains: milk, gluten, eggs

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

8.5 g

Carbohydrates

12 g

Fat

26 g

Fiber

2 g

Sugar

3 g

Sodium

380 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.