pineapple casserole recipe
Discover the ultimate pineapple casserole recipe! Sweet, savory, and easy to make, this Southern classic is perfect as a side dish or dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
2 cans (20 oz each) crushed pineapple
- Choose canned pineapple packed in juice not syrup, for a perfectly balanced sweetness.
1 cup granulated sugar
- Provides the right amount of sweetness to complement the tangy pineapple. For a deeper flavor try using brown sugar.
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Helps thicken the casserole ensuring a creamy, cohesive texture.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- The star of the dish adding a rich, savory contrast to the sweet pineapple. Sharp cheddar works best for bold flavor.
1 cup buttery crackers (about 25 crackers)
- Crushed and used as a topping for that classic buttery crunch. Ritz crackers are a popular choice.
1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- Drizzled over the crackers to enhance their golden crispy texture.
Optional Add-Ins
Cream Cheese (4 oz, softened)
- Adds a creamy richness for a slightly more decadent casserole.
Cinnamon or Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon)
- For a warm spiced flavor that enhances the sweetness of the pineapple.
Chopped Pecans (1/2 cup)
- Sprinkle on top with the cracker crumbs for a nutty crunchy twist.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- This ensures even baking, allowing the casserole to achieve a bubbly, golden topping.
Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 2 cans (20 oz each) of crushed pineapple (drained thoroughly).
- 1 cup granulated sugar.
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour.
- Stir until the ingredients are evenly mixed, ensuring the flour is fully incorporated to avoid clumps.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
- Gently fold in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Mix until the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the pineapple mixture, creating a sweet and savory blend.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Pour the pineapple and cheese mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Step 5: Prepare the Cracker Topping
- In a medium bowl, combine:
- 1 cup of crushed buttery crackers (about 25 crackers).
- 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter.
- Stir until the crackers are evenly coated in butter.
- Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the pineapple layer, ensuring full coverage for a crunchy, golden topping.
Step 6: Bake
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of cinnamon (optional) for a finishing touch.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 35g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 400mg