Polynesian Casserole
A sweet and savory Polynesian casserole featuring pineapple, ham, and sweet potatoes, topped with a flavorful brown sugar and curry sauce, perfect for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain pineapple, reserving the syrup.
- Layer pineapple, cubed ham, and sliced sweet potatoes in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Combine brown sugar, flour, curry powder, and pepper in a bowl.
- Blend in the reserved pineapple syrup, water, and vinegar to make the sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the layered casserole.
- Cover with topping and bake at 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try adding diced bell peppers or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for heat. If you want a healthier option, substitute fresh sweet potatoes for canned, and use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar. Ensure the ham is fully cubed and evenly spread to allow for even heating and flavor absorption. This casserole pairs well with pork recipes for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley for color. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed green vegetables for a balanced meal. For a delightful contrast, consider serving it alongside Swiss Cream Of Potato Soup for a comforting and hearty dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power, stirring halfway through for even heating. Always check that it’s heated through before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Polynesian Casserole contains roughly 950 calories, with 17g protein, 164g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (138% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (78% of the Daily Value), and potassium (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 22g 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, but you'll need to blend it into a juice or finely chop it to mimic the texture of canned pineapple tidbits. Adjust the sweetness by adding a little sugar if desired, as fresh pineapple can vary in sweetness.
What can I substitute for ham in this recipe?
You can replace the ham with cooked chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just ensure to season appropriately to enhance the overall flavor profile of the casserole.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Additionally, check the labels of your canned ingredients, like the pineapple and sweet potatoes, to ensure they are gluten-free.
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).