Description
Southern-style pineapple casserole blends sweet and savory flavors with comfort and charm. Cheese-topped cracker crumbs create a golden crust that elevates this classic Southern side dish for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 (20 oz/567 g) can pineapple chunks, drained (reserve ¼ cup juice)
- 1 (20 oz/567 g) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsps all-purpose flour
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30), crushed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Set the oven to 350F (175C) and lightly grease an 8-inch or 9-inch baking dish to prevent adhesion.
- Create Base Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk sugar, flour, and tropical fruit juice until achieving a smooth, lump-free consistency, creating a silky foundation for the casserole.
- Incorporate Ingredients: Gently fold pineapple chunks, crushed pineapple, and shredded cheddar cheese into the base mixture, ensuring even distribution of flavors and textures throughout the dish.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the pineapple-cheese blend evenly into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to create a uniform layer that promises delightful bites.
- Develop Cracker Topping: Combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter, thoroughly coating the crumbs to create a rich, golden topping that will provide a satisfying crunch.
- Bake and Finish: Sprinkle the buttered cracker mixture over the pineapple layer and bake for 25-30 minutes, watching for a golden-brown surface and bubbling edges that signal perfect doneness.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to settle for a few minutes after removing from the oven, letting flavors meld and temperature stabilize before serving warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Cheese Selection Strategy: Use sharp cheddar for more intense flavor, or experiment with mild versions for a gentler taste profile that complements the pineapple’s sweetness.
- Moisture Management: Drain pineapple thoroughly to prevent excess liquid from making the casserole soggy, ensuring a perfect texture and preventing potential runny results.
- Cracker Coating Technique: Crush Ritz crackers to a consistent, medium-fine texture for optimal crunch and even distribution across the casserole’s surface.
- Temperature Timing: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow flavors to settle and make serving easier, preventing burns and allowing the dish to set properly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 9
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 360 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 31 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg