Church Pineapple Treat
A sweet and cheesy pineapple casserole topped with crunchy Ritz cracker crumbs, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings with a delightful tropical flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix drained pineapple and grated cheese together.
- In a separate bowl, mix sugar, flour, and reserved pineapple juice.
- Combine the pineapple-cheese mixture with the sugar-flour mixture and pour into a greased casserole dish.
- Mix margarine and Ritz cracker crumbs together and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using sharp cheddar cheese instead of regular cheese. If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with almond flour and use gluten-free crackers. Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the casserole, which can make it soggy. This dish also works well with additional spices like cinnamon for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Church Pineapple Treat is delightful as a side dish for holiday meals or gatherings. It pairs beautifully with savory dishes like roasted meats or can be served alongside lighter fare such as a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it with Scallop Cauliflower, which complements the sweet and savory flavors perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, ensuring they are warm all the way through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Church Pineapple Treat contains roughly 799 calories, with 17g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (93% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and protein (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the Ritz cracker topping right before baking to keep it crispy. This makes it a convenient option for potlucks or family gatherings.
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).