Description
This Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole combines tart, tender apples with a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce topped with a crunchy buttery breadcrumb crust. Perfect as a comforting side dish or a unique savory treat, this casserole offers a delightful balance of sweet and sharp flavors baked to golden perfection.
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 continuously for about 1 minute to create a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and sour cream, cooking 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 to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×9-inch or 2-quart baking dish. Layer the sliced apples evenly in the dish, then pour the cheese sauce over the apples, ensuring they are well coated.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for a crunchy finish.
- Bake: Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Serve & Enjoy: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. It pairs excellently with roasted meats or can be enjoyed as a delicious, standalone dish.
Notes
- Use tart apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a balanced flavor that complements the cheese sauce.
- Lemon juice helps prevent apple slices from browning before baking.
- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs for the topping.
- You can add a pinch of cinnamon to the cheese sauce for a warm, subtle spice note.
- This casserole reheats well and can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
