Pineapple Casserole(Yields 4 Servings)
A sweet and savory pineapple casserole layered with cheddar cheese and crunchy crackers, perfect as a side dish for family gatherings or holiday meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place drained pineapple chunks in a greased 9 x 12-inch casserole dish.
- In a small bowl, mix sugar and flour, then sprinkle over the pineapple.
- Layer grated sharp Cheddar cheese over the pineapple mixture.
- Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers on top of the cheese layer.
- Drizzle melted butter over all layers.
- Bake for 30 to 40 minutes at 350°F until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch. If you don't have Ritz crackers, any buttery cracker works well. For a lower sugar option, you can use a sugar substitute, but keep in mind that it may alter the texture. Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to prevent a soggy casserole. This dish can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This pineapple casserole is a delightful side dish that pairs beautifully with savory meats, making it a perfect complement to ham or grilled chicken. It can also serve as a unique dessert when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or a bowl of Cold Yellow Squash Soup.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple Casserole(Yields 4 Servings) contains roughly 821 calories, with 30g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (94% of the Daily Value), protein (60% of the Daily Value), and calcium (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 792mg per serving (34% 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 chunks and cook it briefly to soften before using it in the casserole. This will enhance the texture and flavor compared to the canned version.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to add the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter just before baking to maintain their crunchiness.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this pineapple casserole is vegetarian-friendly. It contains no meat products and can be enjoyed by those following vegetarian recipes. Just ensure that the ingredients like cheese are vegetarian-friendly if you're catering to strict dietary preferences.
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).