Ritzy Pineapple Casserole
A sweet and cheesy pineapple casserole with crunchy cracker topping, perfect for holiday dinners or family gatherings, pairing beautifully with ham and other savory dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the pineapple chunks, reserving 1/2 cup of juice.
- Place the drained pineapple in a baking dish.
- Mix the flour and sugar together and sprinkle evenly over the pineapple.
- Pour the reserved pineapple juice over the top.
- Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese and crushed Ritz crackers over the casserole.
- Drizzle the melted margarine over the cracker crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve warm, preferably with ham.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using crushed pineapple instead of chunks for a smoother texture. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute half of the cheese with a reduced-fat variety. You can also replace the Ritz crackers with a homemade crumb topping using whole wheat crackers for a healthier alternative. Ensure to drain the pineapple well to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with ham, making it a perfect side dish for holiday meals or family gatherings. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. You might also enjoy it with a side of Glazed Beets With Crumbled Blue Cheese for a colorful and flavorful plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pineapple casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven helps maintain the crispiness of the topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ritzy Pineapple Casserole contains roughly 661 calories, with 20g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), protein (41% of the Daily Value), and calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 637mg per serving (28% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
If you don't have Ritz crackers, you can use any buttery cracker or even crushed potato chips for a different flavor. Alternatively, a homemade crumb topping made from breadcrumbs and a bit of butter can also work well.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes, this casserole can be made vegetarian by ensuring your cheese is rennet-free and using plant-based margarine instead of traditional margarine. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or onions for additional flavor and nutrition.
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).