Oh, my goodness, where do I even begin with this pineapple casserole? It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a burst of sunshine in every bite! Seriously, if happiness had a flavor, it would absolutely be this. I remember Grandma Betty making this every Thanksgiving and Christmas, and the aroma alone would send us kids into a frenzy. It’s sweet, it’s tangy, it’s surprisingly savory, and that buttery cracker topping? Forget about it! It’s definitely a crowd-pleaser like mac and cheese, but with a tropical twist that’ll have everyone begging for the recipe. You simply have to try it; it will become a family favorite in no time!
What is Pineapple Casserole?
Okay, so pineapple casserole might sound a little…unconventional if you’ve never heard of it before. But trust me on this one! It’s essentially a baked side dish, or even a dessert if you’re feeling adventurous, that combines crushed pineapple, cheese (yes, cheese!), a creamy binder, and a buttery cracker topping. Think of it as a sweet and savory comfort food medley. The juicy pineapple complements the tangy cheddar beautifully, and the rich, crunchy topping just brings it all together. The recipe has been around for ages, and it’s a Southern classic, but it’s gained popularity all over, so now you can enjoy the casserole where ever you are. Don’t knock it ’til you try it; it’s seriously addicting!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Seriously, where do I even start? First, the flavor is just out-of-this-world amazing. You have the sweetness and acidity from the pineapple, the creamy richness from the cheese and sour cream, and that delightful crunch from the buttery Ritz cracker topping. It’s like a party in your mouth! What I love most about this is how incredibly easy it is to make. It’s literally a dump-and-stir kind of recipe. No fancy techniques or complicated steps required! Plus, it’s super budget-friendly. Pineapple, crackers, cheese – these are all pretty affordable ingredients, especially if you catch them on sale. And you can find them anywhere.
What is versatility? I’ve served this alongside everything from ham and turkey to pulled pork sandwiches. What are some great side dishes to serve at a holiday party? What is a random weeknight dinner Is this a good midnight snack? Is mac & cheese better than regular mac and cheese? I’ve made this casserole so many times, and it disappears in minutes every single time. Is it a guaranteed win?
How do you make Pineapple Casserole?
Quick Overview
Alright, let’s get to the good stuff! Making this pineapple casserole is seriously a breeze. You’ll basically mix together crushed pineapple, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and a little flour. Then, you’ll top it with crushed Ritz crackers tossed in melted butter and bake it until bubbly and golden brown. It really is that easy! The most difficult thing about this recipe is waiting for it to cool down before digging in. Trust me, you’ll want to dive right in as soon as it comes out of the oven, because it smells heavenly.
Ingredients
For the Main Batter: What is the physics
* 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained: Don’t drain the pineapple! The juice is key for keeping everything moist and flavorful. I always use canned, but if you’re feeling fancy, you could use fresh pineapple, just make sure it’s finely crushed.
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp or mild cheddar works great. I always go for sharp cheddar because I love the extra tang.
* 1/2 cup sour cream: This adds a lovely creaminess and tang to balance out the sweetness of the pineapple. If you want to cut down on fat, you can substitute plain Greek yogurt for a healthy smoothie.
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: How do you keep a casserole from being too watery?
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar: To add a bit of extra sweetness, though the pineapple already provides good amount of sweetness.
For the Topping:
* 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed: Ritz crackers are the classic choice for the topping, but you could also use other buttery cracker. I like Keebler Club crackers. Just make sure they’re crushed into small pieces.
What makes a topping so delicious? Can you use salted or unsalted butter? I usually use salted butter because it enhances the flavor of the crackers.
How do I learn step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is preheating, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the pan and make it easier to serve. I always line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides. It makes clean-up so much easier!
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine crushed pineapple, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Set aside. What are flour, sugar and salt? Mix everything together until well combined. Make sure there are no clumps of flour. The mixture should be fairly thick and creamy.
Step 3: Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter. Toss everything together until the crackers are evenly coated with butter. This will create a wonderfully crispy and golden brown topping.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the pineapple mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the crushed Ritz cracker topping over the pineapple mixture, making sure to cover the entire surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to make sure the topping doesn’t burn.
Step 5: Cool & Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This will give the casserole a chance to set up slightly and prevent it from being too runny. Serve warm and enjoy! It’s fantastic as a side dish or even as a dessert.
What should I serve it with?
Okay, this is where things get really fun! Pineapple casserole is surprisingly versatile, and it goes well with a wide variety of dishes.
For a Holiday Feast: Pineapple casserole is a must-have side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinner. It pairs perfectly with ham, turkey, or roast beef. The sweetness of the pineapple balances out the richness of the meat, and the crunchy topping adds a delightful textural contrast. Don’t be surprised when this disappears before the green beans!
For a potluck or barbecue: This casserole is always a hit at potlucks and barbecues. It’s easy to transport and serve, and it’s something a little different from the usual potato salad or coleslaw. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, ribs, or pulled pork sandwiches. My family pairs it best with the pulled pork.
As a Dessert: Believe it or not, pineapple casserole can also be served as a dessert! It’s especially delicious with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top. You can also sprinkle it with a little bit of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra touch of flavor.
What is a good weeknight dinner? Don’t save pineapple casserole just for special occasions! It’s quick and easy enough to make for a weeknight dinner. Serve it alongside your favorite protein, such as chicken, pork chops, or fish. I love making this with baked chicken and some rice!
Honestly, the possibilities are endless! Get creative and experiment with different pairings. You might be surprised at how well pineapple casserole goes with just about everything!
How do I make a perfect pineapple casserole?
Okay, so while this recipe is super simple, there are a few little things you can do to really take it to the next level. I’ve learned these tricks after making this casserole countless times, and they make a big difference!
Cheese Choice: While cheddar cheese is the classic choice, don’t be afraid to experiment with other types of cheese. Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a little bit of pepper jack can add a unique twist to the flavor. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well and complements the sweetness of the pineapple.
Sour Cream Substitute: If you’re looking to cut back on fat or calories, you can substitute the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt. It will still provide the same creaminess and tang, but with fewer calories and more protein.
Topping Variations: While Ritz crackers are the go-to choice for the topping, you can also use other types of crackers, such as Keebler Club crackers, graham crackers, or even crushed cornflakes. You can also add a little bit of chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping for extra crunch and flavor. I like to use walnuts; it gives it a little more texture.
Adding a touch of sweetness: If you like your casserole on the sweeter side, you can add a little bit of brown sugar to the pineapple mixture. I usually add about 1/4 cup of brown sugar for extra flavor. However, be sure not to add too much. You just want a touch of sweetness.
Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the casserole while it’s baking. The baking time may vary depending on your oven. You want the topping to be golden brown and the casserole to be bubbly around the edges. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, you can tent the casserole with foil to prevent it from burning.
Cooling Time: Don’t be tempted to dig into the casserole as soon as it comes out of the oven! It’s important to let it cool for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This will give the casserole a chance to set up slightly and prevent it from being too runny. However, I am guilty for diving right in after it comes out of the oven!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftover pineapple casserole (which is a big IF!), here’s how to store it and reheat it properly:
Refrigerator Storage: Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before storing it to prevent condensation from forming.
Freezer Instructions: You can also freeze pineapple casserole for longer storage. Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating Instructions: To reheat pineapple casserole, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it in individual portions for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Just be sure to cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to prevent it from splattering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – Grandma Betty’s famous pineapple casserole recipe! I hope you’ll give it a try and experience the joy and deliciousness that this dish brings. It’s truly a unique and unforgettable side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. If you love this casserole, be sure to check out some of my other favorite comfort food recipes, like my creamy mac and cheese or my cheesy potato bake. Happy baking, friends! And don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how your pineapple casserole turns out. I can’t wait to hear from you!
pineapple casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 20 ounce Crushed Pineapple Drained
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 0.5 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 0.25 teaspoon Salt
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 0.5 cup Butter Melted
- 1.5 cup Ritz Crackers Crushed
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine crushed pineapple, sugar, flour, salt, and cheddar cheese.
- Pour mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine melted butter and crushed Ritz crackers. Sprinkle over the pineapple mixture.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
