Taste the Heart of Texas: Cheesy Garlic and Leek Quick Bread Recipe

Photo bymiss wuhan

In Texas, where the flavors are as bold as the landscape, comfort food is a way of life. One dish that perfectly embodies that spirit is Cheesy Garlic and Leek Quick Bread. This savory loaf is easy to make and packed with flavor, combining the sweetness of softened leeks with the sharpness of cheddar and the aromatic punch of garlic. Whether you're preparing it for a weekend brunch or serving it as a side for a Texas BBQ, this bread brings a little something extra to the table.

Texas is known for taking classic dishes and giving them a twist. With the addition of leeks, a vegetable prized for its subtle onion flavor, and garlic, this quick bread brings out a unique richness that keeps people coming back for more. Plus, the sharp cheddar adds a bite that pairs perfectly with a variety of meals. It’s the kind of dish that fits right into Texas cuisine—hearty, delicious, and satisfying.

Recipe: Texas-Style Cheesy Garlic and Leek Quick Bread

Ingredients:

For the Leek + Garlic Mixture:

• 2 fresh leeks, cleaned and sliced (you should have about 1 cup cooked leeks total)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 1/4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

For the Topping:

• Drizzle of olive oil
• 1 tbsp shredded parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp coarse salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and minced garlic. Sauté until the leeks are softened and fragrant, then set aside to cool.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the buttermilk and egg. Slowly whisk in the melted butter.
5. Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, stirring just until mixed—don’t overwork the batter.
6. Gently fold in the shredded cheddar and cooled leek-garlic mixture.
7. Line a 9x5-inch baking tin with parchment paper and add the dough, smoothing the top.
8. Drizzle the top with olive oil, then sprinkle with parmesan and coarse salt.
9. Bake for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The loaf should have a golden crust.
10. Let the loaf cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan to continue cooling.

This cheesy garlic and leek quick bread is perfect when served warm, and it pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. From a Texas chili to a simple soup or salad, this bread elevates any meal with its rich texture and complex flavor. The slightly crunchy top, thanks to the parmesan and coarse salt, contrasts with the soft, cheesy inside, making each bite memorable. So the next time you're hosting friends or family, let this bread take center stage—Texas-style.

Here is the complete Cheesy Garlic and Leek Quick Bread recipe that combines rich Texas flavors with the hearty texture of a homemade quick bread. This bread features the sweetness of sautéed leeks and garlic, perfectly complemented by the sharpness of cheddar cheese.

Ingredients:

Leek & Garlic Mixture:

• 2 fresh leeks, cleaned and sliced
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 1/4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Topping:

• Drizzle of olive oil
• 1 tbsp shredded parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp coarse salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, and sauté the sliced leeks and minced garlic until softened. Set aside to cool.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk and egg together. Stir in the melted butter.
5. Combine the wet mixture with the dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix.
6. Fold in the shredded cheddar and sautéed leek mixture.
7. Line a 9x5-inch loaf tin with parchment paper, pour in the dough, and smooth the top.
8. Drizzle the top with olive oil, and sprinkle parmesan and coarse salt.
9. Bake for 1 hour or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool on a wire rack before serving.

This bread is delicious when served warm and pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of dishes, from soups to stews. Its light, fluffy texture and cheesy goodness are irresistible, making it a fantastic addition to any meal​(A Pretty Life in the Suburbs)​(Taste of Home).