Green Bean and Leek Bake

Gruyère gives this delectable side a nutty note — feel free to swap in your favorite melty cheese. 

Ingredients

• 2 Tbs. butter
• 2 leeks, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 Tbs. all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• ½ cup shredded Gruyère cheese
• 1 lb. green beans, trimmed
• 2 Tbs. chopped red pepper
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Heat oven to 375°F. Coat 1½-qt. baking dish with cooking spray. In large skillet, melt butter over medium heat; add leeks and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until starting to soften, about 5 min. Stir in flour; cook, stirring, 2 min. Add milk; cook, stirring, until thickened, 2 min. Remove from heat; stir in cheese. 
2. Add green beans and chopped pepper to cheese sauce; season to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer to baking dish; sprinkle with breadcrumbs. Cover with foil. Bake 20 min.; remove foil. Bake until topping is golden brown and sauce is bubbly, about 10 min. Let cool slightly before serving.