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Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole

Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole
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The Old-Fashioned Apple and Cheese Casserole is a classic comfort dish combining the sweet tartness of crisp apples with the rich, creamy texture of melted sharp cheddar cheese. This nostalgic casserole blends simple ingredients to create a warm, flavorful meal suitable for any time of day. Perfect as a main or a side, it offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors with a tender custardy base and golden buttered topping.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruits

  • 3–4 crisp apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), washed, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 pinch cinnamon (optional)

Cheese

  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Bread or Base

  • 4 cups cubed day-old bread (or gluten-free bread for gluten-free option)

Custard Mixture

  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 ½ cups milk or cream
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 pinch black pepper

Others

  • 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small chunks (for dotting the top and greasing the dish)
  • Optional seasonings: nutmeg, additional cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Apples: Wash, core, and thinly slice your apples. Toss them lightly with a pinch of cinnamon and a teaspoon of lemon juice to keep them fresh and to add a warm spice note.
  2. Cube the Bread: Cut day-old bread into bite-size cubes. Using stale or day-old bread helps it soak up the custard without becoming mushy.
  3. Layer the Ingredients: Butter a casserole dish. Layer half of the bread cubes first, followed by half of the sliced apples, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Repeat the layers with the remaining bread, apples, and cheese.
  4. Mix the Custard: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or cream), a pinch of salt, and black pepper until well combined. Pour this custard mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the casserole dish.
  5. Prepare for Baking: Dot the top of the casserole with small chunks of butter to enhance browning and flavor.
  6. Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set in the center.
  7. Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing for easier serving and better flavor melding. Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of honey if desired.

Notes

  • Use firm apples to hold their shape while baking and avoid mushiness.
  • Do not skip the binding eggs; they maintain the casserole’s structure and soft texture.
  • Let the casserole rest before serving to enhance flavor melding and ease slicing.
  • Butter the casserole dish well to prevent sticking and add richness.
  • Experiment with blends of sharp and mild cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple casserole, cheese casserole, old-fashioned casserole, comfort food, baked apple dish, savory apple recipe

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