Hot Cheese And Pineapple Dish
A sweet and savory baked dish combining pineapple, cheddar cheese, and a buttery cracker topping, perfect for entertaining or a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine drained pineapple tidbits and shredded Cheddar cheese in a bowl.
- In a separate small bowl, mix sugar and flour together.
- Stir the sugar and flour mixture into the pineapple and cheese mixture until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
- In another bowl, crumble the Ritz crackers and mix with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the cracker and butter mixture evenly over the pineapple and cheese mixture.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese to the cheese mixture. If you want a little kick, try mixing in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also substitute the Cheddar cheese with a sharper variety or even a blend of cheeses for more depth of flavor. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free crackers.
Serving Suggestions
This dish makes a fantastic appetizer or side dish at gatherings. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as part of a buffet spread. It pairs beautifully with John Wayne'S Favorite Casserole for a hearty meal. For a light touch, consider a fresh salad to balance the richness of the cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the topping may lose its crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Cheese And Pineapple Dish contains roughly 741 calories, with 15g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value), calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 473mg per serving (21% 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. Just make sure to cut it into small pieces and drain any excess juice to avoid making the dish too watery. Fresh pineapple will add a brighter flavor to the dish.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian since it doesn't include meat. However, if you're looking for a vegetarian cheese option, use plant-based cheese substitutes that melt well, ensuring a similar texture and taste.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the pineapple and cheese mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add the cracker topping right before baking to keep it crispy. This makes it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
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).