Introduction
As the leaves begin to turn and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a warm, home-cooked dish to celebrate the beauty of fall. Baked Cheesy Apple Casserole is the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it an ideal addition to your autumn dining table. This delightful casserole combines tender apples with a cheesy, creamy filling that bakes to perfection, ensuring every bite is both comforting and satisfying.
This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser—perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home. With the delicious aroma of cinnamon and baked apples wafting through your kitchen, your family will be eagerly awaiting to dig into this hearty dish. Whether served as a side, a light lunch, or a unique dessert, Baked Cheesy Apple Casserole is sure to become a cherished staple in your fall repertoire. So grab your apron and let’s dive into the comforting flavors of autumn with this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), cored and sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups crusty bread, cubed
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cups milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray.
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- In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss well to ensure the apples are evenly coated.
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- Layer half of the cubed bread at the bottom of the greased baking dish. Spread half of the seasoned apple mixture over the bread. Sprinkle half of the cheddar and Parmesan cheese on top.
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- Add the remaining cubed bread to the dish, followed by the rest of the apple mixture and the remaining cheeses. Finish with a sprinkling of chopped walnuts on top.
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- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered casserole, allowing it to soak into the bread and apples.
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- Press down gently on the layers with a spatula to ensure the liquid is absorbed.
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- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
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- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
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- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful fall-inspired treat!
- Prep Time: 20 min | Total Time: 65 min | Servings: 8
Key Ingredients
- Apples: 6 medium-sized tart apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, peeled, cored, and sliced.
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese for that perfect cheesy flavor.
- Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup packed for sweetness and caramelization.
- Oats: 1 cup rolled oats to add texture and heartiness to the casserole.
- Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted, to bind the mixture and add richness.
- Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon to enhance the warm, fall flavors.
- Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg for an aromatic touch.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon for added depth of flavor.
- Optional Toppings: Chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) and additional cheese for extra crunch and flavor.
These ingredients come together to create a delightful balance of sweet and savory, perfect for cozy family gatherings during the fall season!
Baking Process
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole bakes evenly and reaches the perfect temperature.
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Prepare the Apples: Core and slice about 4-5 medium-sized apples of your choice, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Aim for roughly 6 cups of sliced apples. Toss them in a large bowl with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to keep them from browning and to add a touch of tartness.
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Mix the Filling: In a separate bowl, combine your sliced apples with 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir until the apples are evenly coated with the sugar and spices.
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Add the Cheese: Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of cream cheese, softened and cut into small pieces. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the apple mixture.
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Prepare the Topping: In another bowl, combine 1 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Then, add 1/3 cup of melted butter and mix until the ingredients are crumbly.
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Layer the Casserole: In a greased baking dish (about 9×13 inches), layer the apple mixture evenly on the bottom. Then, sprinkle the oat topping over the apples, making sure to cover them completely.
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Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and bubbling, and the topping is golden brown.
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Cool and Serve: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This will help the layers set a bit. Serve warm, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra treat.
Enjoy your Baked Cheesy Apple Casserole—a warm, comforting dish that perfectly encapsulates the flavors of fall!
Serving Suggestions
To make the most of your Baked Cheesy Apple Casserole and create a delightful dining experience, here are some serving suggestions:
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Pair with Breakfast Delights: Serve warm as a sweet and savory addition to a hearty breakfast spread. It complements scrambled eggs, bacon, or breakfast sausage perfectly.
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Add a Side Salad: Balance the richness of the casserole with a refreshing mixed greens salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. A burst of color from cherry tomatoes and sliced cucumbers adds appeal.
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Serve with Ice Cream or Whipped Cream: For a delicious dessert option, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top of the warm casserole. The creaminess contrasts wonderfully with the cheesy apple goodness.
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Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: A light drizzle of warm caramel sauce over the casserole brings an extra layer of indulgence and heightens the autumnal flavors of the dish.
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Toast it Up: Serve alongside slices of crusty bread or freshly baked biscuits that can be buttered or used to scoop up the casserole.
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Include a Festive Beverage: Complement your meal with a seasonal beverage, such as warm apple cider, hot chocolate, or a spiced chai tea. These drinks will enhance the cozy, fall atmosphere.
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Make it a Potluck Star: This casserole makes for an impressive potluck dish. Arrange slices in a visually appealing manner on a serving platter and garnish with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a festive touch.
Experiment with these suggestions or combine a few for a delightful meal that celebrates the flavors of fall! Your family and friends will love this comforting twist on a classic.
Conclusion
Baked Cheesy Apple Casserole is the perfect dish to embrace the flavors of fall while bringing your family together around the dinner table. Its comforting blend of sweet apples, savory cheese, and warm spices creates a delightful contrast that is both surprising and satisfying. This recipe not only showcases the best of seasonal ingredients but also offers a simple preparation that even novice cooks can master.
Whether served as a side dish, a unique appetizer, or even a sweet treat for dessert, this casserole is sure to become a go-to recipe for your fall gatherings. Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations or add in your favorite nuts or dried fruits to make it your own.
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, gather your loved ones and enjoy a warm helping of this cheesy, apple goodness. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of the season. Happy cooking!
