If you’re craving a comforting dish that tastes like a warm hug from grandma’s kitchen, the Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightful side blends the tartness of crisp apples with the savory richness of sharp cheddar cheese, all topped with a buttery cracker crust that adds a perfect golden crunch. Every bite offers a nostalgic yet fresh experience that’s ideal for family dinners, holiday feasts, or whenever you want to cozy up your meal with a bit of vintage charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple, each playing a key role in bringing this classic casserole to life. From the bright tartness of Granny Smith apples to the sharp, melty sharp cheddar cheese, every element creates a balance of flavors and textures that will have you making this recipe again and again.
- 4 cups peeled and sliced tart apples (such as Granny Smith): The perfect crisp base with a bright, tangy flavor that stands up beautifully to the cheese.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Keeps the apples from browning and adds a subtle zing to brighten the dish.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to complement the tart apples.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Brings a deep, caramel-like flavor that enriches the overall taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses a warm, comforting spice that pairs wonderfully with apple.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a hint of cozy earthiness that rounds out the spice flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors, making them shine.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the juices released from the apples during baking, ensuring a perfect consistency.
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (grated): Provides a savory, tangy richness that is the star partner to the sweet apples.
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz): Creates a crispy, golden topping that adds delightful texture contrast.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Binds the crunchy topping together and lends a luxurious buttery flavor.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a medium-sized casserole dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and will bake evenly with a lovely crisp edges.
Step 2: Toss Apples with Lemon Juice
In a large bowl, toss the peeled and sliced tart apples with the lemon juice. This step not only prevents browning but also adds a fresh tang that counteracts the sweetness nicely.
Step 3: Add the Sugars and Spices
Sprinkle in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and flour over the apples. Toss everything gently but thoroughly until all the apple slices are evenly coated. This mixture forms the flavorful heart of the casserole.
Step 4: Layer Apples and Cheese
Place half of the apple mixture into the casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Generously sprinkle half of the grated sharp cheddar cheese on top. Add the remaining apple mixture over the cheese, followed by the rest of the cheddar. This layering ensures every bite is filled with both sweet and savory goodness.
Step 5: Add the Cracker Topping
Mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter in a small bowl until well combined. Evenly sprinkle this crumbly topping over the layered casserole. This will bake into a golden, crunchy crust that beautifully contrasts with the tender apples underneath.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Tender
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the apples become tender and the cracker topping is a gorgeous, golden-brown. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together perfectly.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For a charming finishing touch, sprinkle a few fresh apple slices or a little extra grated cheddar on top after baking. A light dusting of cinnamon can also elevate the aroma and add extra warmth, making your presentation as inviting as the flavors inside.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted pork or poultry, balancing savory mains with its sweet-savory profile. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette creates a refreshing contrast, while roasted root vegetables complement its comforting, homey feel.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this casserole family-style right in the baking dish for a cozy, nostalgic vibe. Alternatively, portion it out into individual ramekins for a special touch when entertaining guests. For a brunch twist, pair it with scrambled eggs and crispy bacon to surprise your crowd with a nostalgic, savory-sweet sensation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftover Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole Recipe with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days, where it keeps its flavor and texture nicely, ready to enjoy again.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap to protect against freezer burn. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep that perfect balance between soft apples and crisp topping.
Reheating
Reheat leftover casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes or until warm throughout. This method helps preserve the delicious crispy topping instead of making it soggy, giving you a near-fresh taste each time.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples give the perfect tartness, you can use other firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Braeburn. Just be mindful that sweeter apples will change the balance, so you might want to adjust the sugar slightly.
Is it possible to make this casserole dairy-free?
You can swap out the cheddar cheese for a dairy-free cheese alternative and use a plant-based butter for melting. The flavor will be different but still delicious, maintaining the comforting essence of the Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole Recipe.
Can I use gluten-free crackers for the topping?
Yes, gluten-free crackers work well as a substitute to keep the crunchy topping. Just be sure they have a buttery flavor or add a touch of melted butter or olive oil to mimic that richness.
What can I add to make this casserole more festive?
A dash of apple cider or a splash of vanilla extract stirred into the apple mixture elevates the dish for special occasions. Toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top add both flavor and crunch that impress.
How does the cheese affect the flavor?
The sharp cheddar cheese brings a savory punch that balances the sweetness and tartness of the apples perfectly. It’s this sweet-savory interplay that makes the Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole Recipe so uniquely delicious and cherished.
Final Thoughts
This Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that feels both nostalgic and fresh every single time you make it. Whether you’re serving it alongside tender pork or enjoying it as a cozy family side, its sweet and savory dance of flavors will quickly make it a new favorite. Give yourself the joy of connecting to classic home cooking 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
A nostalgic old-fashioned apple and cheese casserole combining tart apples with sharp cheddar and a buttery cracker topping. This sweet and savory side dish is baked to golden perfection, offering tender spiced apples layered with melted cheese and a crunchy crust, perfect alongside 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: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a medium casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Toss Apples with Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss the peeled and sliced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning. Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and flour. Mix well to evenly coat the apples with the spices and sugars.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread half of the apple mixture in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish, then sprinkle half of the grated sharp cheddar cheese over the apples.
- Add Remaining Layers: Add the remaining apple mixture on top of the cheese layer, and then sprinkle the rest of the grated cheddar cheese on top.
- Prepare Cracker Topping: In a small bowl, combine the crushed buttery crackers with melted butter evenly, then sprinkle this mixture over the top layer of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the apples are tender and the top is golden brown and crisp.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for 5 minutes to set before serving warm.
Notes
- This dish pairs exceptionally well as a sweet-savory side with pork or poultry dishes.
- For a richer flavor, add a dash of apple cider or a splash of vanilla extract to the apple mixture before baking.
