Pineapple Casserole Recipe Everyone Will Fall in Love With
Discover the perfect pineapple casserole recipe! Sweet, savory, and easy to make, this crowd-pleaser is ideal for holidays or any family gathering.
Ingredients
Core Ingredients
- 2 cans (20 oz each) each of pineapple chunks drained
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 sleeve of Ritz crackers crushed
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter melted
Optional Additions
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Quick Tips for Ingredient Prep
- Cheese Matters: For the best texture and flavor shred the cheddar cheese yourself instead of using pre-packaged shredded cheese.
- Save Some Juice: While draining the pineapple reserve a few tablespoons of juice. It can be used to adjust the filling's consistency if needed.
- Fresh is Fine: If you prefer you can substitute fresh pineapple chunks, but be sure to use ripe, juicy fruit for the best results.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and reaches the perfect golden brown color.
- Prepare the Pineapple Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pineapple chunks and granulated sugar. Stir in the flour until the mixture thickens slightly, coating the pineapple evenly. This will create a rich, gooey filling.
- Add the Cheese: Gently fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, making sure it’s evenly distributed. The cheese will melt into the pineapple mixture, adding a creamy, savory layer to the dish.
- Prepare the Cracker Topping: In a separate bowl, crush the Ritz crackers into fine crumbs. You can do this by placing them in a plastic bag and using a rolling pin, or simply crush them with your hands. Add the melted butter to the crumbs and mix well until they’re coated evenly. This buttery topping will give the casserole a satisfying crunch.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the pineapple mixture into a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the buttery cracker crumbs over the top, ensuring the surface is fully covered.
- Bake and Enjoy: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. The cheese will have melted beautifully into the pineapple, creating a rich, satisfying texture.
- Allow the Dish to Cool Before Serving: Give the casserole a few moments to cool slightly before serving. This not only lets the flavors blend harmoniously but also ensures a safer and more enjoyable dining experience without the risk of burning your mouth!
Quick Tips
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you like your casserole a little sweeter, feel free to add a bit more sugar or use a sweeter variety of pineapple.
- Check the Topping: Keep an eye on the cracker topping while it’s baking to avoid over-browning. If it’s golden but not yet fully set, you can tent it with foil to prevent it from burning.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve!
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 5g