Beverly'S Pineapple-Cheese Casserole
A sweet and cheesy casserole combining pineapple, cheese, and crunchy cracker topping, perfect for brunch or a casual family dinner with a tropical twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add the drained pineapple and 3 tablespoons of pineapple juice to a mixing bowl.
- In the bowl, mix together sugar, flour, shredded cheese, and melted margarine until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased pie pan or dish.
- Sprinkle Ritz cracker crumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the cheese mixture. If you're out of margarine, unsalted butter works well as a substitute. You can also use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, to tweak the flavor. Experiment with adding crushed nuts or coconut on top for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This Pineapple-Cheese Casserole pairs beautifully with Oven Fried Chicken Breast(Very Low Fat) for a comforting meal. It also complements a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. Serve it warm as a side dish, or enjoy it as a light main course alongside crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but the texture may vary.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beverly'S Pineapple-Cheese Casserole contains roughly 711 calories, with 8g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 557mg per serving (24% 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?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple if you prefer. Just make sure to chop it into similar-sized pieces to mimic the canned version. You may need to adjust the amount of sugar based on the sweetness of the fresh pineapple to ensure it balances well with the dish.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for Ritz crackers?
If you don't have Ritz crackers, you can use any buttery crackers or even crushed cornflakes as a topping. For a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free crackers or crushed nuts. Just ensure your substitute has a similar texture to achieve that desired crunch on top.
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).