A Sweet and Savory Delight

Pineapple casserole is a unique and delicious Southern dish that combines sweet, tangy pineapple with the sharpness of cheddar cheese and the buttery crunch of Ritz crackers. This unexpected combination creates an addictive side dish that is perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or even as a weeknight treat. Whether you’re new to the world of pineapple casseroles or a seasoned fan, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet and Savory Flavor: The contrast of sweet pineapple and sharp cheddar cheese is irresistible.
Easy to Make: With just a handful of pantry staples, this dish comes together in under an hour.
Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Easter, or as a side dish for ham, turkey, or barbecue.
Kid-Friendly: The natural sweetness of pineapple makes it appealing to even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients

20 ounces pineapple tidbits (drained, reserve 1/4 cup juice)
20 ounces crushed pineapple (drained)
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
40 Ritz butter crackers
1/2 cup butter (melted)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

9-inch baking dish
Cooking spray
Mixing bowls
Spoon for stirring
Blender or knife for chopping pineapple (if using fresh)
Measuring cups and spoons
Oven

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Prepare the Pineapple: If using fresh pineapple, peel and chop it finely. If using canned pineapple, drain the juice and set aside 1/4 cup.
Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped pineapple, and the reserved pineapple juice. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
Prepare the Topping: Crush the Ritz crackers in a blender or by placing them in a ziplock bag and crushing them with a rolling pin. Mix the cracker crumbs with melted butter until well combined.
Assemble the Casserole: Pour the pineapple mixture into the greased baking dish, then spread the buttery cracker topping evenly over the top, pressing it down slightly.
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
Serve Hot: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!

Recipe Tips and Variations

Tips for the Best Pineapple Casserole

Use Sharp Cheddar: The stronger the cheddar, the better the contrast with the pineapple’s sweetness.
Don’t Skip the Ritz Crackers: They add the perfect crunch and buttery flavor.
Drain the Pineapple Well: Excess juice can make the casserole soggy.
Mix the Ingredients Thoroughly: This ensures even distribution of flavors.

Variations

Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free crackers.
Extra Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping.
Spicy Twist: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
Dairy-Free Version: Use vegan cheese and dairy-free butter substitutes.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

For longer storage, freeze the casserole (without the cracker topping) for up to 3 months. Add fresh crackers before reheating for best results.

What to Serve with Pineapple Casserole

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses and side dishes. Here are a few great pairings:

Main Dishes: Baked ham, roasted turkey, grilled chicken, or barbecue ribs.
Side Dishes: Green beans, mashed potatoes, cornbread, or coleslaw.
Drinks: A crisp white wine, sweet iced tea, or a citrus-infused sparkling water complements the dish nicely.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make pineapple casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole (without the topping) a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add the cracker topping just before baking to maintain the crunch.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just be sure to chop it finely and reserve some juice to maintain the proper texture.

Can I make this dish less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet casserole, reduce the sugar to 1/4 cup or use a naturally sweet pineapple variety.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Simply double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish. You may need to extend the baking time by 5-10 minutes.

What if I don’t have Ritz crackers?

You can substitute with saltine crackers, crushed cornflakes, or even panko breadcrumbs for a different texture.

Final Thoughts

Pineapple casserole is a delightful combination of sweet and savory that surprises and pleases every time. Whether you’re making it for a special holiday or just a cozy family dinner, this dish is bound to become a favorite.

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