Imagine sitting around the dinner table with your loved ones. You’re sharing stories and laughter over a dish that’s both delicious and easy to make. An easy pineapple casserole recipe can make any meal special. It combines sweet pineapple with savory cheese, making it a favorite in the South.
The first time I tried pineapple casserole, I was unsure about mixing fruit with cheese and crackers. But the first bite was magical. It’s simple to make, making it perfect for family gatherings or potlucks. This simple pineapple casserole recipe will have everyone asking for more.
Try this delightful recipeto surprise your family with a new favorite dish! Ready to make this easy pineapple casserole? Let’s get started!
Key Takeaways
- A delightful blend of sweet pineapple and savory cheese.
- Quick preparation and cooking time – just 40 minutes!
- Perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
- Basic ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- Delicious crunch and creamy texture that everyone will love.
Ingredients Needed for Pineapple Casserole
Making the perfect pineapple casserole starts with picking the right ingredients. It combines sweet, tangy pineapples with a savory topping. This mix is loved during holidays like Thanksgiving and Easter. Here’s a list of what you need for this tasty dish.
Main Ingredients
The recipe’s base is a mix of textures and flavors. These main ingredients are key:
- Pineapple: 40 ounces of canned pineapple chunks, drained, are essential for providing that juicy and sweet foundation.
- Sugar: Whether you choose white or brown sugar, about 1 cup will sweeten the casserole perfectly.
- All-purpose flour: 6 tablespoons help to thicken the pineapple mixture, ensuring the casserole holds together well.
- Cheddar cheese: 2 cups of shredded cheddar add a savory balance to the sweetness of the fruit.
Topping Ingredients
The topping ingredients add a delightful crunch and flavor. Don’t skip this part!
- Crackers: 1 cup of crushed Ritz crackers (approximately 31 crackers) lend their buttery goodness.
- Butter: 1/2 cup of melted butter ensures the topping is golden and crispy.
- Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Adding 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg each bring a warm spice element to the dish.
These ingredients come together to make a dish loved at family gatherings. You can try fresh pineapple for a juicier taste. For more ideas, check out this recipe for pineapple casserole.
Equipment and Preparation Tips
Making a tasty pineapple casserole is more than just using the right ingredients. You need the right kitchen tools for the best results. From baking dishes to mixing bowls, each tool is important. Here, we’ll cover the key kitchen tools and share some tips for making a great pineapple casserole.
Required Equipment
- 1 1/2-quart casserole dish: This size is perfect for baking and ensures even cooking.
- Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining the main ingredients thoroughly.
- Small mixing bowl: Necessary for mixing the cracker topping mixture.
- Cooking utensils: A spatula or wooden spoon is useful for stirring and mixing.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure precise ingredient proportions.
Preparation Tips
Follow these tips for a perfectly baked pineapple casserole every time:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) to ensure your casserole bakes evenly.
- Drain the pineapple properly: Prevent a soggy base by draining the pineapple well. Use reserved juice to add moisture and flavor.
- Mix ingredients thoroughly: Ensuring the ingredients are well-combined guarantees that every bite is evenly flavored.
- Bake until golden brown: Bake for approximately 35 minutes until the edges of the casserole and cracker topping turn a beautiful golden brown.
By following these tips, you can make your pineapple casserole even better. It will be a hit at any gathering. For more ideas, check out this Southern Sweet Potato Casserole recipe for a unique twist on casseroles.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 1 1/2-quart casserole dish | Even baking of the casserole |
| Large mixing bowl | Combining main ingredients |
| Small mixing bowl | Mixing cracker topping mixture |
| Cooking utensils | Stirring and mixing ingredients |
| Measuring cups and spoons | Accurate measurement of ingredients |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Pineapple Casserole Recipe
Making a pineapple casserole is easy and perfect for any Southern event. Follow these steps to create this tasty dish. It only needs six ingredients, making it simple yet delicious. Let’s start!
Preparing the Pineapple Mixture
Start by preparing the pineapple mixture:
- Drain two cans of pineapple chunks to remove excess juice.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pineapple chunks with one cup of sugar, three tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and two cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well-blended and forms an even consistency.
Assembling the Casserole
Now, let’s assemble the casserole for baking:
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF while you layer the pineapple mixture.
- Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to ensure that your casserole does not stick.
- Evenly spread the pineapple mixture into the prepared casserole dish, creating an even layer for optimal cooking.
Adding the Topping
The last step is adding the topping for a crunchy, golden finish:
- Crush one sleeve of Ritz crackers until you have fine crumbs.
- Melt one stick of butter and mix it with the crushed crackers until well combined.
- Sprinkle the cracker and butter mixture evenly over the top of the pineapple mixture to form a delicate crust.
Once your casserole is ready, bake it to get a perfectly golden and crispy topping. Enjoy this unique dish as an appetizer or side. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pineapple Chunks | 2 cans |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| All-purpose Flour | 3 tablespoons |
| Shredded Cheddar Cheese | 2 cups |
| Ritz Crackers | 1 sleeve |
| Butter | 1 stick |
Nutritional Content per serving (234 kcal): Carbohydrates 15g, Protein 6g, Fat 17g, Cholesterol 48mg, Potassium 29mg, Fiber 1g, Vitamin A 510IU, Calcium 166mg, Iron 1mg.
Baking Instructions
Baking pineapple casserole is easy, but getting the right texture and golden-brown topping needs focus.
Bake Until Perfect
Preheat your oven to 350°F before you start. Baking takes about 30 minutes. Here are some perfect casserole baking tips to help you:
- Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is at 350°F before putting the casserole in.
- Time: Bake for about 30 minutes. The time might vary a bit, so watch the topping closely.
- Visual Cues: The casserole is ready when the topping is golden brown and crunchy. This means the sugars have caramelized well.
To get the perfectly baked pineapple casserole, the pineapple mixture should be creamy. The topping should be crunchy. If using a glass dish, check a few minutes before 30 minutes.
After baking, let the casserole rest for a few minutes. This ensures it sets before serving. Following these perfect casserole baking tips will make your dish a hit every time.
Tips for Customizing Your Pineapple Casserole
Customizing your pineapple casserole is fun and easy. You can add new flavors or change ingredients to suit your taste. Here are some creative ways to make your pineapple casserole stand out.
Alternate Ingredients
Try different ingredients to change up your casserole. Use mozzarella or pepper jack cheese instead of sharp cheddar. For a gluten-free option, swap Ritz crackers for a gluten-free choice.
Adding ham or bacon can add a savory twist. It takes your casserole to a new level.
Spicing It Up
Want to make your dish more flavorful? Add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger. They complement the pineapple’s sweetness, creating a cozy taste for cold weather.
| Nutritional Content per Serving | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 294 |
| Calories from Fat | 139 |
| Total Fat | 15.4g |
| Saturated Fat | 8.7g |
| Cholesterol | 39mg |
| Sodium | 220mg |
| Carbohydrates | 33g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 25g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Vitamin A | 128IU |
| Vitamin C | 15mg |
| Calcium | 143mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
Serving Suggestions
Serving pineapple casserole right can make it even better. It’s great for holidays and goes well with many dishes. Plus, knowing how to store it means you can enjoy it for days.
Perfect Pairings
Pineapple casserole goes well with both savory and sweet dishes. For a great holiday meal, try it with:
- Brown Sugar Mustard Baked Ham: The ham’s sweet and tangy taste matches the casserole’s savory and cheesy flavors.
- Crock Pot Turkey Breast: Perfect for Thanksgiving and Christmas, the turkey breast and casserole make a great pair.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: For dessert, warm casserole with vanilla ice cream is a tasty treat.
Pineapple casserole adds a special touch to any meal with its mix of textures and flavors.
Preserving Leftovers
Leftover pineapple casserole needs to be stored right to stay good. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigeration: Use an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps it moist and flavorful.
- Avoid Freezing: Freezing can make it watery when reheated, losing its great taste and texture.
For more tips and the original recipe, check out this link.
With these tips, your pineapple casserole will be a hit at your holiday meals.
Why Pineapple Casserole Is a Southern Favorite
The Southern pineapple casserole became popular in the 1950s. It combines sweet, savory, and crunchy elements. This makes it a great addition to any meal, especially during holidays.
The rise of canned pineapple in the early 20th century helped this dish grow. By the 1920s, canned pineapple was a hit in the US. The Hawaiian Pineapple Company became the world’s largest pineapple packer by 1923.
Interest in pineapple casserole recipes peaks during the holidays. It’s a festive favorite, but some keep it a secret. They might do this because of its old-fashioned taste.
The Southern pineapple casserole is more than a dish; it’s a celebration of taste and tradition. It’s easy to make and brings comfort to the table, especially during celebrations.
Here’s a nutritional snapshot of this cherished dish:
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 471 kcal |
| Servings | 8 |
| Preparation time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking time | 30 minutes |
| Resting time | 10 minutes |
| Total time | 1 hour |
| Protein | 9g per serving |
| Carbohydrates | 65g per serving |
| Fat | 21g per serving |
| Saturated fat | 10g per serving |
| Cholesterol | 44mg per serving |
| Sodium | 373mg per serving |
| Potassium | 231mg per serving |
| Fiber | 2g per serving |
| Sugar | 47g per serving |
| Vitamin C | 13mg per serving |
| Calcium | 258mg per serving |
| Iron | 2mg per serving |
The Southern pineapple casserole is a dish that brings comfort and joy. Its unique flavors and simple preparation make it a favorite in many families.
Conclusion
This classic Southern pineapple casserole recipe has been loved for decades. It combines sweet and savory flavors perfectly. You can use sharp cheddar cheese, crushed cracker crumbs, or canned pineapple chunks.
It’s easy to see why it was a hit in the 1950s. It’s still a favorite at holidays, church gatherings, and family reunions. The recipe is simple yet versatile.
Pineapple casserole is also good for you. It has vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A, calcium, and potassium. Ingredients like pineapple and cheddar cheese add to its nutritional value.
Each serving gives you protein and fiber. It’s more than just a side dish; it’s a key part of the meal. You can also add coconut flakes, ham, or different cheese blends for a new twist.
This dish is easy to make and can be customized. It’s perfect for both new cooks and experienced chefs. Enjoy pineapple casserole as a side dish or dessert. This recipe is sure to please.
Try this classic recipe for your next meal. It’s a Southern staple loved by many for generations. Savor the delicious flavors that make it so special.