Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole Recipe
If you’ve never experienced the unexpected pairing of tart apples with sharp cheddar, you’re in for a downright treat with this Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole. Imagine layers of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples, a buttery, cheesy crunch on top, and just the right hint of nostalgia in every bite. This dish balances sweet and savory flavors so beautifully that it’s perfect as a comforting side or a show-stealing dessert—and it’s always the first thing to disappear at my table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of my favorite things about making this Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole is just how approachable the ingredient list is. Each element is simple on its own, but together, they create a timeless, satisfying harmony of flavors and textures.
- Apples (4 cups, peeled, cored, and sliced): Choose a tart variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the ideal balance of sweet and tangy flavor.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the apples and prevents them from browning while adding a refreshing zing.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Lends gentle sweetness to the apples and helps caramelize them as they bake.
- Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses the casserole with comforting, warm spice—essential for that classic apple aroma.
- Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle nutty undertone to round out the apple flavor.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (1/2 cup shredded + 1/4 cup for topping): Provides a savory counterpoint to the apples, making each bite irresistibly creamy and tangy.
- Crushed butter crackers (1/2 cup): Brings buttery, salty crunch to the topping—Ritz crackers work perfectly!
- Melted butter (2 tablespoons): Helps form the golden topping and melds the flavors together.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Deepens the casserole’s sweetness and adds a hint of molasses richness to the topping.
- All-purpose flour (1/4 cup): Binds the topping ingredients for that perfect crumbly finish.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot by the time you’re ready to bake. Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish—just enough to help everything release beautifully after baking and make cleanup a breeze!
Step 2: Toss the Apples
In a large mixing bowl, combine your sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss them gently so every slice is coated in that sweet, spiced mixture. The lemon juice not only adds a pop of freshness but also ensures your apples stay bright and beautiful.
Step 3: Layer the Apples
Pour the seasoned apple slices into your prepared baking dish, spreading them out evenly. This step ensures you get a bit of juicy apple goodness in every single serving of your Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese (saving that final 1/4 cup for later), crushed butter crackers, melted butter, brown sugar, and flour. The mixture should be crumbly but moist—a perfect contrast to the soft apples underneath.
Step 5: Assembly and Bake
Sprinkle your cheesy, buttery topping mixture evenly over the apples. Finish it off with the reserved 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a beautiful melted top. Slide your dish into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the apples are bubbling and the top is golden and irresistible.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before scooping. This helps everything set up a bit, making for neater servings and allowing the flavors to mingle even more. Enjoy while it’s warm for the very best experience!
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole
Garnishes
To add a little extra flair, sprinkle your Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole with a pinch of freshly chopped parsley or a light dusting of cinnamon right before serving. You could even add thin shavings of extra cheddar for a touch of elegance and sharper taste.
Side Dishes
This casserole makes a delightful addition to all kinds of meals. Serve it alongside roasted meats like pork loin or turkey to enhance their savory notes, or pair it with a crisp green salad for a balanced, flavorful spread. It also holds its own on a holiday table among other classic sides.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, try baking individual portions of Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole in ramekins for a charming touch. Or, serve it dessert-style with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—the contrast of hot and cold is absolutely irresistible. You might even top it with a drizzle of honey for an extra layer of sweetness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare in my house!), transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. The casserole will keep well for up to 3 days, and the flavors deepen as they meld together overnight.
Freezing
To freeze, allow your casserole to cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will stay perfect in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 325°F oven until heated through. If you like a crispy topping, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking. You can also microwave individual servings—just know the topping will be a bit softer.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of cheese for Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is traditional and offers the ideal punch of flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gouda or even a smoked cheddar. Just make sure the cheese has a robust flavor to hold its own against the apples.
Which apples are best for this casserole?
Tart apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are wonderful because they keep their shape and provide a bright, tangy base for this Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole. Avoid softer apples, like Red Delicious, which can turn mushy when baked.
Can the recipe be doubled for a crowd?
Yes! Simply double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch dish. You may need to extend the baking time by about 10 minutes—just check for bubbling apples and a golden topping before pulling it from the oven.
Is Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole best served hot or cold?
This casserole truly shines when served warm, straight from the oven. That said, it’s also delicious at room temperature, though reheating can revive its gooey, cheesy crunch if you made it ahead of time.
Can I make Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily swap in gluten-free crackers and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the topping. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy this comforting classic!
Final Thoughts
There’s something utterly joyful about sharing a dish with history and heart, and Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole is one of those recipes that invites smiles with every bite. Whether you serve it alongside dinner or as a whimsical dessert, don’t be surprised if your friends and family ask for seconds—and maybe even the recipe itself!
Print
Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole is a delightful blend of tart apples, savory cheddar cheese, and a buttery crumb topping. Perfect as a side dish or unique dessert, this sweet-savory bake is a comforting addition to any meal.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling:
- 4 cups tart apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup crushed butter crackers (like Ritz)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup additional shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Apple Filling: In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spread the apple mixture evenly in the baking dish.
- Make the Topping: In a separate bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese, crushed crackers, melted butter, brown sugar, and flour until crumbly. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the apples. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Best served warm as a sweet-savory side or a unique dessert.
- Try using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for the perfect balance of tart and sweet.
- Serve alongside roasted meats or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
