If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both unique and absolutely delicious, this Pineapple Casserole Recipe is a must-try ! A staple in Southern kitchens, this dish combines the juicy sweetness of pineapple with the salty, buttery crunch of crackers and the rich creaminess of cheese. It may sound unusual, but trust us—one bite, and you’ll be hooked! Whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast or a weeknight family dinner, this easy-to-make casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Gather the family, preheat the oven, and let’s get started !
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- Sweet and Savory : The pineapple brings a juicy sweetness, while the buttery crackers and cheese create a rich savory contrast.
- Family-Friendly : Simple ingredients and easy preparation make this perfect for family meals or holiday spreads.
- Quick and Easy : Just mix, bake, and serve! This recipe is great for busy days when you need a quick dish to impress.
- Unique Flavor : If you’re looking to try something different yet comforting, this pineapple casserole offers a one-of-a-kind taste experience.
How to Make Pineapple Casserole
- Prepare the Oven : Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking dish.
- Combine Ingredients : In a large bowl, mix pineapple chunks, sugar, flour, and shredded cheese.
- Assemble : Pour the mixture into your prepared dish, and top with a layer of crushed buttery crackers mixed with melted butter.
- Bake : Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve : Serve hot as a side dish with ham, turkey, or other favorite mains.
Helpful Tips
- Drain the Pineapple Well : To avoid a soggy casserole, make sure to drain the pineapple chunks thoroughly.
- Cheese Matters : A sharp cheddar works best for that extra punch of flavor, but you can experiment with different cheeses if you like.
- For a Crispier Topping : Bake a little longer or broil for the last couple of minutes to get a crispy golden crust.
Substitutions and Variations
- Different Crackers : If you don’t have Ritz crackers, try using Club crackers or even crushed cornflakes.
- Gluten-Free Option : Use gluten-free crackers and flour to make this dish gluten-friendly.
- Make it Tropical : Add some coconut flakes to the pineapple mixture for a tropical twist.
- Spice it Up : A pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick to balance the sweetness.
What to Serve with Pineapple Casserole
This Pineapple Casserole is a fantastic side dish for grilled meats like ham, turkey, or pork chops. It’s also a great addition to holiday feasts, offering a unique sweet-and-savory option alongside traditional casseroles.
Leftovers and Storage
- Storage : Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating : Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
- Can I Freeze It? Yes! You can freeze the casserole after baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven before serving.
Pineapple Casserole Recipe
Pineapple Casserole Recipe
This Pineapple Casserole is a delightful blend of sweet pineapple chunks and a savory, cheesy topping made from crushed Ritz crackers and shredded cheddar cheese. It's easy to prepare with just a few simple ingredients and takes about 25-30 minutes to bake. The result is a warm, golden casserole that's perfect for both family meals and special occasions. With its unique combination of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to become a crowd-pleasing favorite !
Ingredients
- 1 can 20 oz pineapple chunks, drained
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/2 cup butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven : Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole will cook evenly and get that golden, bubbly top.
- Prepare the Pineapple Mixture : In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pineapple chunks and pineapple juice. Stir in 1 cup of sugar and 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, mixing well to coat the pineapple. The flour helps thicken the casserole as it bakes.
- Assemble the Casserole : Transfer the pineapple mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly, ensuring every bite will have that juicy pineapple goodness.
- Make the Topping : In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of crushed Ritz crackers. Drizzle in 1/2 cup of melted butter and stir to create a crumbly, cheesy topping.
- Add the Topping : Evenly spread the cheese and cracker mixture over the pineapple in the baking dish. This creates a deliciously crunchy and cheesy top layer for your casserole.
- Bake : Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbling. The top should be crispy, and the inside soft and juicy.
- Serve : Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this warm, sweet, and savory pineapple dish!
FAQ
- Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes! If you prefer fresh pineapple, just cut it into chunks and use it the same way as canned. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble it a day ahead and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven. - Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, while cheddar is classic, you can try other cheeses like mozzarella or even Monterey Jack for a milder flavor. To explore various cheese options for casseroles, refer to this guide on cheese varieties. - What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
If you don’t have Ritz, any buttery cracker or even bread crumbs will work as a crunchy topping. - Is this dish served warm or cold?
Pineapple casserole is best served warm, right out of the oven, for the best texture and flavor.
For a delicious main dish to accompany your casserole, check out my article on The Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in 30 Minutes !
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