Description
This Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole is a nostalgic, comforting dish that combines tart sliced apples with a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce, topped with a buttery, crunchy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for cozy family dinners or holiday gatherings, it offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Apples
- 4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent browning)
Cheese Sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional for added warmth)
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for a crunchy topping)
- 1 tbsp butter (melted, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir for about 1 minute to create a roux. Slowly add the milk and sour cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional cinnamon.
- Assemble the Casserole: In a greased 9×9-inch or 2-quart baking dish, layer the sliced apples evenly. Pour the cheese sauce over the apples, making sure they are well-coated.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Bake the casserole for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- Serve & Enjoy: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or as a delicious stand-alone dish.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith or crisp Honeycrisp for the best flavor contrast with the cheese.
- For a deeper flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg along with cinnamon.
- Letting the casserole rest after baking helps the sauce thicken and the flavors to meld.
- Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or nuts for a different crunchy topping.
- This dish can be prepared a day ahead and baked just before serving for convenience.
