Pineapple Casserole

Introduction

If you’ve never tried Pineapple Casserole, you are in for a treat! This dish is a delicious and unexpected combination of sweet and savory flavors. When I first made it, I was a little skeptical about mixing pineapple with cheddar cheese, but after the first bite, I was hooked. The sweetness from the pineapple and the richness of the cheese create an interesting contrast, while the buttery Ritz cracker topping adds the perfect crunch. It’s a crowd-pleaser and always a hit at family gatherings. The beauty of this casserole is that it can double as both a side dish and a dessert. My family loves it so much that I make it at least once a month, and every time, it gets rave reviews. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday meal or a weeknight dinner, this Pineapple Casserole will certainly elevate your meal. Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients

• For the Casserole:
  • 2 cans (20 oz each) crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• For the Topping:
  • 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 12 crackers)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent the casserole from sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple Mixture

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the drained crushed pineapple, sugar, flour, and grated cheddar cheese. Stir well until the ingredients are evenly mixed. The flour will help thicken the casserole, while the sugar balances the tartness of the pineapple. The cheese adds a rich, savory flavor that makes this dish so unique.

Step 3: Add the Melted Butter

Once the pineapple mixture is well combined, pour in the melted butter and stir again to combine. The mixture should have a thick consistency, and the butter will help to create a smooth texture.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

In a separate bowl, crush the Ritz crackers until they are in small, fine pieces. Add the crushed crackers and two tablespoons of melted butter to the mixture, stirring until the crackers are evenly coated. The butter will help the crackers crisp up as they bake, creating a golden, buttery topping.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Now, pour the pineapple mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the Ritz cracker topping generously over the casserole, ensuring it covers the entire surface.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. The time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the casserole to avoid overbaking.

Step 7: Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. It can be served warm as a side dish or dessert. Whether paired with savory meats or enjoyed as a stand-alone treat, this casserole is sure to please.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: 250 kcal
• Sugar: 23g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes

How to Serve

• As a Side Dish: Serve it alongside roasted chicken, pork, or ham for a delicious contrast of flavors.
• As a Dessert: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a fun dessert.
• At Holiday Meals: It’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter meals when you want to bring something a little different to the table.
• On Its Own: Serve it as a quick snack or light meal, especially for brunch or a potluck.

Additional Tips

1. Drain the Pineapple Well: It’s important to drain the pineapple thoroughly to avoid making the casserole too watery.
2. Use Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The sharpness of the cheddar balances the sweetness of the pineapple, creating a better contrast of flavors.
3. Add a Touch of Cinnamon: If you want to spice up the flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon to the pineapple mixture.
4. Use a Larger Dish: If you’re making this for a bigger crowd, you can double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13-inch dish.
5. Customize the Topping: You can use crushed potato chips or other crackers instead of Ritz crackers for a different flavor and texture.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Pineapple Casserole: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the pineapple mixture for a little heat.
• Coconut Pineapple Casserole: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the mixture for a tropical twist.
• Nutty Pineapple Casserole: Stir in 1/4 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the pineapple mixture before baking for extra crunch.
• Crispy Topping: For an even crunchier topping, add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the crushed crackers and butter mixture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with roasted meats like turkey, chicken, or pork for a savory-sweet contrast.
• Serve as a side at a BBQ along with grilled meats and cornbread.
• Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a quick and satisfying dessert.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs (like parsley or mint) for a pop of color, especially if serving as a side dish.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Pineapple Casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
• Storage: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate it before baking. When you’re ready to bake, let it come to room temperature and then bake as directed.

2. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but be sure to drain it well before adding it to the casserole. You may need to cook it slightly to soften it before mixing.

3. What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
You can substitute Ritz crackers with crushed butter crackers, potato chips, or even cornflakes for a different texture and flavor.

4. How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add a kick, try incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the pineapple mixture.

5. Can I use low-fat cheese?
Yes, you can use reduced-fat cheese, but the flavor may not be as rich and sharp as with full-fat cheddar.

6. Is it possible to make this casserole vegan?
Yes, substitute dairy-free butter and vegan cheese for the traditional ingredients, and use a plant-based alternative to the Ritz crackers.

7. Can I make this casserole in a larger dish?
Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13-inch dish. Just increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes.

8. How do I avoid a soggy casserole?
Make sure to drain the pineapple well, and do not skip the step of pressing the crackers into the butter mixture to ensure a crisp topping.

9. Can I add other fruits to the casserole?
You can add fruits like mandarin oranges, chopped mango, or even berries for a variation.

10. Can I serve this at room temperature?
Yes, this casserole can be served at room temperature, but it is best enjoyed warm or slightly chilled.

Conclusion

Pineapple Casserole is an unforgettable combination of sweet and savory that’s sure to surprise and delight anyone who tries it. With its rich, cheesy texture and buttery Ritz cracker topping, it’s a dish that’s perfect for both special occasions and casual meals. Easy to make and versatile, this casserole is a great way to bring something new and exciting to your dinner table. Whether you serve it as a side dish or dessert, it will quickly become a family favorite. Try it out today—you won’t be disappointed!

Print