Kathy'S Pineapple Casserole
A savory pineapple casserole with cheese and crushed crackers, perfect as a side dish for ham or pork, offering a sweet and cheesy flavor combination that complements roasted meats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the cans of chunky pineapple and set aside.
- Mix plain flour and sugar in a bowl.
- Add grated sharp cheese to the mixture.
- Stir in the drained pineapple and pineapple juice (2 or 3 teaspoons).
- Crush the Ritz crackers and combine with melted margarine.
- In a baking dish, layer the pineapple mixture and sprinkle with the crushed cracker mixture.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes until bubbling and golden on top.
- Serve warm as a side dish with pork or ham.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the pineapple mixture. If you want a sweeter touch, substitute brown sugar for white sugar. You can also use crushed saltine crackers instead of Ritz for a different flavor profile. Remember to keep an eye on the casserole while baking, as oven temperatures may vary.
Serving Suggestions
Kathy's Pineapple Casserole makes a delightful side dish and pairs beautifully with pork or ham. It can also complement a holiday meal or potluck dinner. Consider serving it alongside Grandma's Coleslaw 'N' Dressing for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, add a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to the table.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, ensuring they are warmed evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kathy'S Pineapple Casserole contains roughly 191 calories, with 4g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% 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, but make sure to chop it into small, bite-sized pieces and adjust the sweetness as fresh pineapple can be less sweet than canned. You may want to add a bit more sugar to taste.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, just assemble it without baking. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this casserole gluten-free by using gluten-free crackers instead of Ritz. Additionally, ensure the flour you use is a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
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).