There is something truly comforting about the Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole Recipe that makes it a treasured classic worth revisiting. This dish strikes the perfect balance between sweet tart apples and sharp cheddar cheese, creating a harmonious marriage of flavors that feel nostalgic yet fresh. With a crunchy buttery cracker topping and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, every bite offers a delightful contrast of textures and tastes that will have your whole family asking for seconds. Whether you’re looking for a cozy side dish or a unique twist on a fruit bake, this recipe delivers warmth and soul from the very first forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, familiar ingredients is the secret to making this Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole Recipe shine. Each element offers its own magic—from the tart snap of Granny Smith apples to the savory richness of sharp cheddar and the golden crunch from buttery crackers.
- 4 cups peeled and sliced tart apples (such as Granny Smith): The backbone of the dish, offering that crisp tartness that balances the richness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds brightness and prevents the apples from browning.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the apples gently without overpowering.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Brings a hint of molasses depth and caramel notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Warms the dish with earthy spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds subtle complexity and aroma.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors and balances sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the apple juices as they cook.
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (grated): Provides a tangy, savory layer that complements the fruit.
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz): Creates a golden, crunchy topping that seals in flavor.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Binds the cracker topping and adds lusciousness.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A warm oven ensures everything cooks evenly and the top turns that perfect golden brown. Lightly grease a medium casserole dish to keep your bake from sticking, so you can serve it easily without losing any precious layers.
Step 2: Toss the Apples with Flavor
In a large mixing bowl, toss the peeled and sliced tart apples with lemon juice. The lemon juice is essential here—it keeps your apples from turning brown and adds a hint of tang. Then add granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and all-purpose flour. Toss everything until the apples are beautifully coated. This mix infuses the fruit with warmth and sweetness while thickening the natural juices as it bakes.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Start by laying half of the apple mixture in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Then sprinkle half of the grated sharp cheddar on top. Repeat this layering with the remaining apples and cheese. This layering creates a luscious contrast between the juicy fruit and the savory cheese throughout every bite.
Step 4: Create the Crunchy Topping
Mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted unsalted butter in a small bowl until evenly combined. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the top of your layered casserole. This step is what gives the Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole Recipe its iconic crispy, golden crust that contrasts delightfully with the soft filling.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the apples have softened and the topping is beautifully browned. When it’s done, let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time helps all the flavors meld and the juices thicken just right.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Serve your Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole Recipe with a light sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives to add a pop of color and mild herbal freshness. For an extra indulgent touch, dollop a spoonful of crème fraîche or a little sour cream on the side to complement the savory cheese and sweet apples.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a dream side for roast pork or grilled chicken, where the sweet and savory elements can truly shine together. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing counterbalance to the richness of the cheese. Roasted root vegetables also pair beautifully, rounding out a comforting, hearty meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for elegant single servings or try layering it in a clear glass baking dish to showcase its colorful layers of apples, cheese, and crumb topping. Sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before baking a second time for a golden, bubbly crust that’s absolutely mouthwatering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, the casserole will keep fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen and develop, making the next day’s serving just as delicious—if not better—than the first.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking for up to 2 months. Prepare as directed, then cover tightly with foil and place in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake just until heated through and bubbly, adding a little extra time if still partially frozen.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through and crispy on top. Avoid the microwave if possible to maintain that wonderful cracker crunch and complex meld of flavors.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this casserole?
Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith are recommended for their bright flavor and firm texture, you can experiment with Honeycrisp or Braeburn. Just keep in mind that sweeter varieties may slightly alter the balance between sweet and savory.
Is it possible to make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes! Use a plant-based cheese alternative and vegan buttery crackers to adapt this dish for dairy-free diets. The cheese substitute may have a milder flavor, but it will still complement the apples nicely.
Can I add other spices or flavors?
Definitely! A splash of vanilla extract or a dash of apple cider can deepen the flavor profile. Some people also like a pinch of ground cloves or ginger for additional warmth and complexity.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
Look for tender, bubbly apples and a golden, crispy cracker topping. The cheese should be melted and slightly browned. If the topping browns too quickly, you can loosely cover the dish with foil and continue baking until the apples are fully cooked.
Is this casserole suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly since it contains no meat or animal-derived gelatin. Just ensure the cheese you choose is made with vegetarian rennet if that is a concern for you.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend trying this Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole Recipe enough. It’s a heartwarming throwback that brings people together with its unique blend of sweet and savory, soft and crunchy textures. Whether it becomes a weekly treat or a cherished seasonal dish, it’s sure to add a touch of love and nostalgia to your table. Go ahead, dig in, and enjoy every comforting bite.
Print
Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole combines tart Granny Smith apples with sharp cheddar cheese and a buttery cracker topping for a nostalgic sweet-savory side dish. Perfectly baked until golden and tender, it offers a delightful balance of flavors that pairs wonderfully with pork or poultry.
Ingredients
Apple Mixture
- 4 cups peeled and sliced tart apples (such as Granny Smith)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Cheese and Topping
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (grated)
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a medium casserole dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick and cooks evenly.
- Mix Apples: In a large mixing bowl, toss the peeled and sliced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning and add a subtle tartness.
- Add Seasonings and Sugar: To the apples, add granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, salt, and all-purpose flour. Toss well so all apples are evenly coated with the mixture, ensuring balanced flavor and thicker consistency when baked.
- Layer Ingredients: Spread half of the apple mixture in the bottom of the casserole dish, then sprinkle half of the grated sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the apples.
- Top with Remaining Ingredients: Add the remaining apple mixture over the cheese layer, then top with the rest of the shredded cheddar cheese for a rich cheesy finish.
- Make Cracker Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with melted butter until well combined to form a crunchy topping.
- Sprinkle Topping: Evenly sprinkle the cracker and butter mixture over the top of the casserole for a golden, crispy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and the casserole to set.
Notes
- This casserole pairs beautifully as a sweet and savory side dish alongside pork or poultry dishes.
- For enhanced flavor, consider adding a dash of apple cider or a splash of vanilla extract to the apple mixture before baking.
