Ritzy Pineapple
A rich and cheesy pineapple casserole with a crunchy Ritz cracker topping, perfect for holiday gatherings or casual family dinners, blending sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the well-drained pineapple chunks, sugar, flour, and shredded cheese in a bowl until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a 2-quart baking dish.
- Crumble the Ritz crackers evenly over the top of the pineapple mixture.
- Slice the margarine and distribute evenly over the cracker crumbs.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh pineapple instead of canned, and feel free to substitute the sharp cheese with a milder option if preferred. If you're looking for a twist, try adding some chopped nuts or coconut on top of the cracker layer for added texture. Using butter instead of margarine can enhance the flavor as well.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is great as a side for grilled meats or can be served at a potluck. Pair it with a fresh salad for a light meal. It also complements well with the Festive Sweet Potato Combo(Ready To Bake In Just 7 Easy Minutes.) for a delightful spread. Consider serving with a scoop of Yummy Sundaes for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ritzy Pineapple contains roughly 528 calories, with 7g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 7g 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 a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheese adds a nice kick, you can use mozzarella or even pepper jack for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste will vary slightly with different cheeses.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pineapple mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add the cracker topping and margarine right before baking to maintain their crispiness.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. Just ensure that the cheese you choose is suitable for vegetarians, as some cheeses may use animal rennet.
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).