Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Pineapple Casserole is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The creamy, cheesy pineapple filling is complemented by a crunchy cracker topping that gives every bite a satisfying crunch. It’s sweet, tangy, and comforting all at once. Whether you serve it as a side dish at a cookout or enjoy it as a savory-sweet breakfast, this casserole is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks
1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
½ cup white sugar (or to taste)
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
40 buttery round crackers (such as Ritz), crushed
½ cup butter, melted (or to taste)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Drain the pineapple chunks, reserving ¼ cup of juice to use in the recipe. Discard the remaining juice or save it for another use.
- In a large bowl, combine the drained pineapple chunks, reserved juice, crushed pineapple, Cheddar cheese, sugar, and flour. Stir to mix everything together.
- Pour the pineapple mixture into a 1½-quart casserole dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Add Fruit: For extra sweetness and variety, try adding maraschino cherries or mandarin oranges to the pineapple mixture.
- Different Cheese: If you prefer a milder flavor, use mild Cheddar cheese instead of sharp Cheddar.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños to the casserole for a touch of heat.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free crackers and flour to make this casserole gluten-free.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftover pineapple casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I make Pineapple Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to two days in advance. Simply assemble everything, but wait to add the topping until right before baking. Cover the casserole and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.
2. Can I freeze Pineapple Casserole?
It’s not recommended to freeze Pineapple Casserole as the texture may become mushy after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh within a few days.
3. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
While canned pineapple is typically used for this recipe due to its moisture and convenience, you can use fresh pineapple if you prefer. Just be sure to chop it into small pieces and drain it well.
4. What can I serve with Pineapple Casserole?
Pineapple Casserole pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, like chicken, and is also a great side dish for holiday dinners or potlucks.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
You can substitute sharp Cheddar with mild Cheddar or even a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby for a different flavor profile.
6. How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
7. Can I add other fruits to this casserole?
Yes! You can add fruits like mandarin oranges, peaches, or maraschino cherries to enhance the flavor and add variety.
8. How do I prevent the topping from getting soggy?
Make sure to wait until the casserole is ready to bake before adding the cracker topping. This will help the crackers stay crunchy.
9. Can I make Pineapple Casserole gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free crackers.
10. How can I make the topping extra crunchy?
For an extra crunchy topping, try adding a few more crushed crackers or sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs on top before baking.
Conclusion
Pineapple Casserole is a Southern classic that blends the perfect amount of sweet and savory. With its creamy pineapple filling and crunchy cracker topping, it’s a dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Easy to make, delicious to eat, and versatile enough to complement any meal, this recipe is bound to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen.
Pineapple Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pineapple Casserole is a Southern classic that combines sweet pineapple with savory cheddar cheese, topped with a buttery, crunchy cracker crust. Perfect for any meal or gathering!
Ingredients
1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks
1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
½ cup white sugar (or to taste)
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
40 buttery round crackers (such as Ritz), crushed
½ cup butter, melted (or to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Drain the pineapple chunks, reserving ¼ cup of juice to use in the recipe. Discard the remaining juice or save it for another use.
- In a large bowl, combine the drained pineapple chunks, reserved juice, crushed pineapple, Cheddar cheese, sugar, and flour. Stir to mix everything together.
- Pour the pineapple mixture into a 1½-quart casserole dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Add maraschino cherries or mandarin oranges for a fruity twist.
For a milder flavor, swap sharp Cheddar with mild Cheddar.
For a spicy kick, sprinkle in cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
Make gluten-free by using gluten-free crackers and flour.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
