Introduction
Pineapple casserole is one of those delightful dishes that seems to spark joy and nostalgia at every gathering. I remember the first time I had it at a family reunion; it was an unexpected blend of sweet and savory that left me curious and craving more. My family couldn’t get enough of this unique dish, often serving it as a side with ham or turkey during the holidays. It’s a crowd-pleaser and an excellent way to add a tropical twist to your dinner table. The combination of juicy pineapple, creamy cheese, and crunchy cracker topping creates a delightful contrast that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure easy removal after baking.
- Mix the Pineapples and Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pineapple chunks, crushed pineapple, granulated sugar, flour, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Pour into Baking Dish: Pour the pineapple mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the crushed Ritz crackers. Mix until the crackers are thoroughly coated with butter.
- Add the Topping: Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the pineapple mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Servings: 12
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 29g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 4g
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
How to Serve
- Serve warm as a side dish during holiday meals.
- Pair with ham, turkey, or grilled chicken for a complete meal.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for added color and flavor.
- Offer as a dessert alternative at potlucks or family gatherings.
Additional Tips
- Drain Thoroughly: Ensure that the pineapples are well-drained to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheese varieties like Monterey Jack or Swiss for a unique flavor twist.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance; just bake it right before serving.
- Add Spices: Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the pineapple mixture for extra warmth and depth.
- Vegan Version: Use vegan cheese and plant-based butter for a vegan-friendly version.
Recipe Variations
- Tropical Twist: Add shredded coconut for a tropical touch.
- Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
- Fruit Medley: Include other fruits like mandarin oranges or diced peaches for a mixed fruit casserole.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious meal.
- Perfect for holiday brunches, served with scrambled eggs and bacon.
Freezing and Storage
- Freezing: The casserole can be frozen before baking. Assemble it, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
FAQ Section
- Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
- Yes, fresh pineapple can be used, but ensure it is well-drained and cut into small chunks.
- What can I substitute for Ritz crackers?
- You can use crushed butter crackers, graham crackers, or even panko breadcrumbs.
- Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
- Yes, use gluten-free flour and gluten-free crackers to adapt the recipe.
- How can I make it sweeter?
- Add a bit more sugar or include a drizzle of honey or maple syrup before baking.
- Is there a dairy-free option?
- Yes, substitute with dairy-free cheese and vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
- Can I add more cheese?
- Absolutely! Feel free to increase the amount of cheese for a cheesier casserole.
- What should I serve it with?
- This casserole pairs well with ham, grilled chicken, or as a side for BBQ meals.
- Can I prepare this the night before?
- Yes, you can prepare the casserole and store it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
- What if I don’t have cheddar cheese?
- You can use any cheese you have on hand; just make sure it melts well.
- How can I tell when it’s done baking?
- The casserole is done when the topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
Conclusion
Pineapple casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes it a standout dish at any gathering. Whether you’re serving it during the holidays, at a family reunion, or just as a weeknight side, this recipe is sure to impress. The creamy, cheesy filling combined with the crunchy topping creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare. So next time you’re looking for a side dish that’s both comforting and a bit unique, give this pineapple casserole a try—you might just find it becoming a new family favorite!
PrintPineapple Casserole
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 8 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pineapple Casserole is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, featuring juicy pineapple chunks and crushed pineapple baked with cheddar cheese and a crunchy Ritz cracker topping. Perfect as a side dish for holiday gatherings or family dinners, it’s a crowd-pleaser that adds a unique twist to your meal.
Ingredients
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix the drained pineapple chunks and crushed pineapple with the sugar, flour, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Pour the pineapple mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the crushed Ritz crackers. Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the pineapple.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some crushed nuts or shredded coconut.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: side dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg