Baked Pineapple And Cheese
A sweet and cheesy baked pineapple dish with a crunchy cracker topping, perfect as a side or dessert for gatherings and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain pineapple chunks, reserving 3 tablespoons of juice.
- Combine sugar and flour; stir in the reserved pineapple juice.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese and pineapple chunks; mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered casserole dish.
- Combine butter and Ritz cracker crumbs.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture on top of the pineapple and cheese mixture.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using brown sugar instead of white for a deeper flavor. If you like a bit of crunch, consider adding chopped nuts to the cracker topping. Ensure you mix the cheese well to avoid clumping. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or use Greek yogurt for a creamier texture.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside grilled meats for a delightful contrast. For a fun twist, consider serving it as a side for a brunch gathering, complementing it with dishes like Anne's Beer Batter for a unique spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick snack, but the topping may lose its crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Pineapple And Cheese contains roughly 715 calories, with 24g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (52% of the Daily Value), protein (48% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 618mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can add a vibrant flavor to the dish. Just make sure to cut it into similar-sized chunks and cook it down a bit to release some juice before mixing it with the other ingredients.
What if I don't have Ritz crackers?
You can substitute Ritz crackers with any buttery cracker or even crushed cornflakes for a different texture. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free crackers or crushed nuts for the topping.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a kick, consider mixing in some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the cheese and pineapple mixture. Alternatively, you could sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top of the cracker crust for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).