Description
Pineapple Casserole is a classic Southern side dish featuring a sweet and savory combination of pineapple chunks, crushed pineapple, sharp cheddar cheese, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping baked to golden perfection. This unique casserole pairs wonderfully with ham or pork and offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a perfect addition to holiday meals or family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit Mixture
- 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks in juice, drained and juice reserved
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Topping
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30), crushed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch or a similar-sized baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Pineapple Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the drained pineapple chunks, drained crushed pineapple, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Gently mix all ingredients together until fully combined without breaking up the pineapple chunks.
- Assemble the Base: Pour the pineapple mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out smoothly to create an even layer.
- Prepare the Cracker Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted unsalted butter until the crackers are well coated to ensure a crispy, buttery crust.
- Add the Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the butter-coated crushed crackers evenly over the pineapple mixture. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the cracker topping is golden brown and the edges of the casserole are bubbly.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes to set slightly, which helps in slicing and serving.
Notes
- This sweet and savory casserole is a Southern classic and pairs surprisingly well with ham or pork dishes.
- You can reduce the sugar slightly for a less sweet version tailored to your preference.
- Be sure to drain the pineapple well to avoid excess moisture that can make the casserole watery.
