Spring Brunch Leeks Gruyere (Printer-friendly)

A custardy dish featuring tender leeks, creamy Gruyere, and fresh herbs for a light spring meal.

# Required Ingredients:

→ Crust

01 - 1 9-inch store-bought or homemade pie crust

→ Vegetables

02 - 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, thoroughly cleaned and thinly sliced
03 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
04 - 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
05 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Filling

06 - 4 large eggs
07 - 1 cup heavy cream
08 - 1/2 cup whole milk
09 - 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
10 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
11 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
12 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

→ Cheese

13 - 1 1/2 cups grated Gruyere cheese

# How-To Steps:

01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F
02 - Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch tart or pie pan. Trim the edges and prick the base with a fork. Chill in the freezer for 10 minutes.
03 - Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Blind bake for 12 minutes, then remove weights and parchment and bake for another 5 minutes. Let cool slightly.
04 - Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add leeks, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until soft and translucent, about 8 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
05 - In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, milk, mustard, nutmeg, chives, and parsley until smooth.
06 - Spread the sautéed leeks evenly over the bottom of the pre-baked crust. Sprinkle with grated Gruyere cheese. Pour the egg mixture over the leeks and cheese.
07 - Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is just set and the top is golden.
08 - Cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Perfectly balanced flavors with sweet leeks, nutty Gruyere, and aromatic fresh herbs
  • Impressive presentation that's ideal for brunch gatherings or special occasions
  • Vegetarian-friendly but satisfying enough to please any crowd
  • Can be served warm or at room temperature, making it great for entertaining
  • Classic French technique with accessible ingredients
02 -
  • Use freshly grated nutmeg rather than pre-ground for the most vibrant, warm flavor
  • Let the sautéed leeks cool slightly before adding to the crust to prevent the cheese from melting prematurely
  • Check for doneness by gently jiggling the pan—the center should be just set with a slight wobble
  • Invest in ceramic pie weights for more even heat distribution during blind baking
  • Grate your own Gruyere from a block for better melting and creamier texture
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