Three Apples Of The Land
A savory layered potato and apple casserole with Gruyère and horseradish, offering a rich, cheesy flavor with a hint of garlic and subtle sweetness, perfect for elegant dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and butter a 9 x 12-inch baking pan.
- Rub the inside of the pan with the crushed garlic clove and discard the garlic.
- Layer the sliced potatoes, apples, grated cheese, and horseradish in the prepared pan, seasoning each layer with salt and white pepper.
- Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of grated cheese.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and heavy cream.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the top is golden and the casserole is cooked through, about 60 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture. If Gruyère is not available, Swiss cheese is an excellent substitute. To save time, you can use pre-sliced apples and even consider adding some caramelized onions for depth. Be sure to season each layer well to enhance the overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You might also serve it alongside roasted meats or a hearty beef stroganoff for a comforting dinner. For a vegetarian twist, serve it with a side of Pommes De Terre Lyonnaise to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps retain the moisture and texture of the dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Three Apples Of The Land contains roughly 771 calories, with 10g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1680mg per serving (73% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What type of apples should I use?
For this recipe, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well, as they balance the richness of the cheese and cream. Avoid overly sweet apples, as they may alter the flavor profile of the dish.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use plant-based milk and cream, such as almond or coconut milk. Additionally, look for dairy-free cheese options that melt well to maintain the texture of the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).