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Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole

Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole
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The Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole is a comforting and nostalgic dish combining the sweetness of crisp tart apples with the rich meltiness of sharp cheddar cheese. This warm casserole offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, enhanced by spices and a crispy breadcrumb topping, making it ideal for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Scale

Apples

  • 4 cups tart apples (e.g., Granny Smith), peeled and thinly sliced

Cheese and Dairy

  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 3 tablespoons butter, melted (preferably salted)

Topping

  • 1 cup bread crumbs or crushed crackers (gluten-free option: gluten-free bread crumbs or chopped nuts like pecans)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Spices and Seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Apples: Peel and thinly slice the apples to ensure even cooking. Toss the slices with ground cinnamon, optional nutmeg, a pinch of brown sugar, salt, and pepper to create a fragrant and flavorful base.
  2. Layer the Ingredients: Lightly butter a casserole dish. Arrange a layer of sliced apples, then sprinkle generously with shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Follow with a layer of bread crumbs or crushed crackers. Repeat these layers, finishing with a generous cheese topping.
  3. Add Final Touches: Evenly sprinkle brown sugar over the top layer to encourage caramelization. Drizzle melted butter over the entire casserole for added richness before baking.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the apples are tender.
  5. Let It Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes. This resting period helps the casserole set, making it easier to serve and allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Notes

  • Pick firm apples like Granny Smith to keep texture intact during baking and avoid overly ripe fruit.
  • Grate your cheese fresh rather than using pre-shredded to ensure optimal melting and flavor.
  • Use salted butter to naturally balance the sweetness in the dish.
  • Do not skip the brown sugar topping; this creates the signature crispy, caramelized crust.
  • Letting the casserole rest after baking helps thicken the juices and prevents it from being runny.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple casserole, cheese casserole, comfort food, appetizer, baked apples, cheddar cheese, holiday dish, family dinner

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/old-fashioned-apple-and-cheese-casserole/