Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Pineapple Chunks | 20 ounces |
| Crushed Pineapple | 20 ounces |
| Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese | 6 ounces |
| Serving Size | 1 out of 10 |
| Calories per Serving | 275 |
The recipe combines pineapple chunks and crushed pineapple with sharp cheddar cheese. It also includes flour, sugar, and a buttery cracker topping. This mix of sweet and savory, along with different textures, makes it a favorite in Southern cuisine.
Key Ingredients for Pineapple Casserole
The classic pineapple casserole is a Southern potluck favorite. It’s often seen at Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. This dish is loved for its simple yet flavorful mix of ingredients.
Fresh vs. Canned Pineapple
While fresh pineapple can be used, canned is preferred. Canned pineapple chunks or tidbits add moisture and sweetness. Fresh pineapple might not have enough juice for the recipe.
The Role of Cheese
Sharp cheddar cheese is the top choice for pineapple casserole. It balances the pineapple’s sweetness with a savory taste. Some recipes also add cream cheese for creaminess.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Canned Pineapple Chunks or Tidbits | 2 (20-ounce) cans |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 cup |
| All-Purpose Flour | 6 tablespoons |
| Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese | 2 cups |
| Buttery Round Crackers (like Ritz) | 1 sleeve |
| Unsalted Butter, Melted | 1/4 cup |
With these ingredients – canned pineapple, sharp cheddar cheese, sugar, flour, buttery crackers, and melted butter – you can make a classic crushed pineapple recipe. It captures the flavors of the American South.
Instructions
Preparing the perfect pineapple casserole is easier than you might think. Follow these straightforward steps to create this classic Southern dish at home.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Drain two 20-ounce cans of pineapple chunks or tidbits, keeping 1/4 cup of the juice. This juice will add flavor to the casserole.
In a large bowl, mix the drained pineapple, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour. Gently mix until well combined.
Put the pineapple mixture in a 1.5-quart casserole dish. In another bowl, crush one sleeve (32 crackers) of Ritz crackers and mix with 1/2 cup of melted butter. Sprinkle the buttered cracker crumbs over the pineapple mixture.
Bake the pineapple casserole for 30 to 40 minutes. It’s ready when the top is golden and the filling bubbles. Let it cool a bit before serving.
With these simple steps, you can make a delightful how to make pineapple casserole dish. It’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of this classic Southern comfort food!
Notes
Tips for Perfecting Your Pineapple Casserole
To make the perfect pineapple casserole, follow some key tips. Start by grating the cheese yourself. This ensures it melts well and tastes great. Stay away from pre-shredded cheese, as it can ruin the dish’s creamy texture.
Draining the pineapple is crucial. Keep the juice for topping, but remove excess water. Use a mesh strainer or colander to drain it well before adding the pineapple to your recipe.
- Grate cheese yourself for better melting
- Drain pineapple well, but reserve juice for topping
- Use a ziptop bag to crush crackers and mix with butter
For the cracker topping, crush Ritz crackers in a ziptop bag. This makes them fine and evenly spread. Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can also enhance the flavor.
Pay attention to how you layer the ingredients. Make sure the pineapple, cheese, and cracker topping are evenly distributed. With these pineapple casserole tips, you’ll soon be perfecting your pineapple bake.
Serving Suggestions for Pineapple Casserole
Pineapple casserole is a versatile dish perfect for many occasions. It’s great for holiday gatherings or as a side for BBQs. Its sweet and savory taste is sure to impress everyone.
Pairing with Main Dishes
This casserole goes well with ham, turkey, or grilled meats like steak or pork tenderloin. Its tangy-sweet flavor complements the richness of these dishes. It creates a perfect balance on your plate.
Ideal Occasions for Serving
- Holiday meals, such as Christmas, Thanksgiving, or Easter
- Potlucks and family gatherings
- Backyard BBQs and summer cookouts
Pineapple casserole can be a side dish or dessert, fitting both casual and formal events. For a summer treat, serve it with vanilla ice cream.
This casserole is a crowd-pleaser, no matter the occasion. Its mix of tangy pineapple, creamy cheese, and buttery topping is unforgettable. It’s a side dish or dessert that will have guests asking for more.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 34
- Sodium: 510
- Fat: 25
- Saturated Fat: 15
- Unsaturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 6
- Cholesterol: 65
Keywords: pineapple casserole, side dish, dessert, cheesy pineapple casserole