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Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 54 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole combines tart, tender apples with a creamy sharp cheddar cheese sauce, topped with a buttery, crunchy breadcrumb crust. Baked to golden perfection, this comforting and savory-sweet casserole makes a delightful side dish or satisfying vegetarian main course that balances warm spices and rich flavors.


Ingredients

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
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional)

Topping

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
  • 1 tbsp butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Apples: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, toss the peeled, cored, and sliced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning. Set them aside as you prepare the cheese sauce.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and sour cream, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the sauce for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat, then stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional cinnamon for a warm flavor note.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: Lightly grease a 9×9-inch or 2-quart baking dish. Arrange the sliced apples evenly across the bottom of the dish. Pour the prepared cheese sauce over the apples, spreading it evenly to coat all the slices well.
  4. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the assembled casserole to create a crunchy crust.
  5. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Bake until the topping turns golden brown and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
  6. Serve & Enjoy: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a flavorful, comforting treat.

Notes

  • Using tart apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp balances the richness of the cheese sauce.
  • The optional cinnamon adds a subtle warmth and depth but can be omitted for a more straightforward savory flavor.
  • For a crispier topping, use panko breadcrumbs instead of traditional breadcrumbs.
  • Letting the casserole rest briefly after baking helps the sauce set and makes serving easier.
  • This casserole can be reheated gently in the oven and tastes great as leftovers.