Hot Pineapple Side Dish
A warm, cheesy pineapple side dish with a sweet and savory profile, featuring melted cheddar and crunchy saltines. Perfect for holiday dinners or serving alongside ham, it offers a comforting blend of flavors and textures that appeal to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain pineapple, reserving 1/4 cup of the juice; set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine sugar and flour.
- Add the melted butter and 1 cup of shredded cheese; mix well.
- Gently stir in the drained pineapple.
- Pour the mixture into a greased shallow 1 1/2-quart baking dish.
- Sprinkle crushed saltine crackers on top and drizzle with the reserved pineapple juice.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes or until bubbly.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheese.
- Serve hot as a delightful side dish, especially with ham.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on this dish, consider using brown sugar instead of white for a richer flavor. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with cornstarch and use gluten-free crackers. You can also add crushed pineapple for additional texture, or mix in some chopped nuts for a crunchy topping.
Serving Suggestions
This hot pineapple side dish pairs beautifully with ham, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners. Serve alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. For additional flavor, consider pairing it with dishes like 'Okie'S' Pot Pie or 'Sweet Dinner Rolls' for a comforting spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick reheating option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Pineapple Side Dish contains roughly 1045 calories, with 12g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (31% of the Daily Value) and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g 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
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Just make sure to cut it into similar-sized chunks and reserve some juice from the fresh pineapple to maintain the dish's moisture and flavor.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and assemble it in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a different flavor, you can substitute Cheddar with Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses like Swiss and Gruyère. Each will give a unique taste that complements the sweetness of the pineapple.
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).