Name: Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-484889H17M30S
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups peeled and sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best); ½ cup granulated sugar; ½ tsp cinnamon (optional, for warmth); 1 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent browning); 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or butter crackers); 4 tbsp butter, melted; ½ cup whole milk or heavy cream

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If you’ve never tried the magical combination of apples and cheese in a casserole, you’re in for a treat! This old-fashioned apple and cheese casserole is a perfect blend of savory and sweet, with tender apples baked under a golden, cheesy crust. It’s the kind of dish that will leave your guests asking for seconds, and it makes a fantastic side or even a cozy main course for any season!

Why You’ll Love Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole

Let me share a few reasons why this casserole will win you over:

Unique Flavor Combo: Apples and cheese might seem unusual, but they create a surprisingly delicious combination that’s sweet, savory, and satisfying.
Comforting and Cozy: The melted cheese and soft apples create a warm, hearty dish that’s perfect for fall, winter, or any time you want a comforting meal.
Perfect Balance: This dish strikes the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with the tart apples and rich cheese complementing each other beautifully.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or as a main, this casserole is a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Now let’s talk about what makes this casserole so special:

Apples: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best balance of flavor. Their slight tartness pairs wonderfully with the cheese.
Cheddar Cheese: The richness of sharp cheddar cheese brings out the savory side of this dish, creating a perfect contrast with the sweet apples.
Bread Crumbs: These will give the casserole a deliciously crisp topping. Use fresh breadcrumbs for extra texture!
Eggs: Help bind the casserole together and give it a smooth, custard-like consistency.
Milk: Adds creaminess to the dish while keeping it soft and smooth.
Butter: For richness and flavor, melted butter will be drizzled over the dish before baking.
Sugar and Cinnamon: A touch of sugar and cinnamon brings out the sweetness in the apples, making the dish beautifully balanced.

(Note: the full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get started on creating this delicious casserole:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. Arrange the apple slices evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Make the Egg Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon until smooth. Pour this mixture over the apples in the dish, making sure the apples are evenly coated.
Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the apple mixture, followed by a generous layer of breadcrumbs. This will create a crispy topping when baked.
Bake the Casserole: Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly, and the apples are tender. You can insert a toothpick into the center to make sure the eggs are fully set.
Serve & Enjoy: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. The contrast of flavors and textures will blow you away!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 250

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole

This casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes:

With Roasted Meats: It makes a great side to roasted chicken, pork, or turkey, balancing out the richness of the meat.
For Holiday Meals: Serve it alongside other traditional dishes like stuffing, mashed potatoes, and green beans for a complete holiday meal.
As a Main Course: For a lighter meal, serve it on its own with a side salad for a deliciously different twist on dinner.

Additional Tips

Apple Varieties: While Granny Smith apples are a favorite for their tartness, feel free to mix in sweeter apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp for added complexity.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving for a quick and easy side.
Dairy-Free Version: Swap the milk and cheese for plant-based alternatives, such as almond milk and dairy-free cheese, for a dairy-free version.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a few dashes of ground ginger for a unique twist.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A1: Yes! While sharp cheddar is the classic choice, you can experiment with Gruyère, Swiss, or even a bit of Parmesan for a different flavor.

Q2: Can I use sweet apples instead of tart ones?
A2: Absolutely! Sweet apples will give the casserole a sweeter flavor. Just keep in mind that the tart apples add a nice contrast to the richness of the cheese.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A3: Yes! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving for a quick, easy meal.

Q4: How should I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes to warm through.

Q5: Can I freeze this casserole?
A5: Yes! Once baked and cooled, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

Q6: Can I add other fruits to the casserole?
A6: Absolutely! You can add a handful of raisins, cranberries, or pears for extra flavor and texture.

Q7: What’s the best way to reheat the casserole?
A7: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This will help maintain the crisp topping.

Q8: Can I double the recipe?
A8: Yes! Double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. You may need to increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes.

Q9: How can I make the topping even crispier?
A9: For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

Q10: Is this dish good for meal prep?
A10: Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep. Simply store individual portions in airtight containers and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

Conclusion

Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the best of both sweet and savory flavors. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a festive holiday spread. With its tender apples, rich cheese, and crispy topping, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy every flavorful bite!