Name: Pineapple Cheese Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 cans Pineapple chunks (packed in juice); ¼ cup All-purpose flour; ½ cup Sugar; 2 cups Shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cups Ritz Cracker crumbs; ¼ cup Butter (melted)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something truly special about a dish like Pineapple Cheese Casserole. It takes me back to family gatherings where we all gathered around the table, eager to dive into a comforting blend of flavors. I remember my grandmother making this delightful casserole, and the sweet aroma of pineapple wafting through the air was simply irresistible. Every bite was a mix of creamy cheese and crunchy Ritz Cracker crumbs, perfectly balanced with the sweetness of the pineapples. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a journey down memory lane filled with laughter and love. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a delightful standalone, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
35 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
6g g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
12g g

Tools Used:
Rotary Cheese Grater, 9×13-inch Baking Dish, Mixing Bowls

What You’ll Enjoy About This Pineapple Cheese Casserole

Comforting Flavor Fusion

When you think of casseroles, you often picture hearty dishes, but the Pineapple Cheese Casserole turns that expectation on its head. The combination of sweet and savory flavors works wonders, creating a unique dish that can stand out on any table.

Easy to Make

This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, which means you can spend more time enjoying your meal with family and friends. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Versatile Dish

One of the best things about the Pineapple Cheese Casserole is its versatility. It’s a fantastic side dish for BBQs, holiday dinners, or even a simple weeknight meal. You can even enjoy it as a light lunch!

Kid-Friendly

Kids love it! The sweetness from the pineapple combined with the creaminess of the cheddar cheese makes it appealing to younger palates. It’s a great way to introduce them to new flavors.

Perfect for Leftovers

Another plus? This casserole keeps well! It’s perfect for meal prep or for those busy nights when you just want to heat and eat. The flavors seem to get better after a day in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for leftovers.

Tradition Meets Modern Cooking

Bringing a classic dish into your home can feel nostalgic, but adding your own twist or simply enjoying it as is makes it a lovely modern recipe. The Pineapple Cheese Casserole is both a reminder of the past and a delicious option for today’s families.

What You Need for Pineapple Cheese Casserole

The ingredients for this Pineapple Cheese Casserole come together beautifully, creating a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, bringing both flavor and texture to the table. The pineapple provides sweetness, while the cheddar cheese adds creaminess. Together, they create a delightful combination that is sure to please everyone.

Pineapple chunks: 3 (20-oz) cans of pineapple chunks packed in juice give this dish its signature sweetness. Make sure to drain them but reserve some juice for later.
All-purpose flour: ¼ cup of flour acts as a binding agent that helps thicken the mixture and adds a bit of texture to the casserole.
Sugar: ½ cup of sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the pineapple, making the dish even more delectable.
Shredded cheddar cheese: 2 cups of cheddar cheese will melt beautifully, adding a rich, creamy flavor that balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
Ritz Cracker crumbs: 2 cups of Ritz Cracker crumbs will give the casserole a delightful crunchy topping, making each bite a heavenly experience.
Butter: ¼ cup of butter, melted, drizzled on top, enhances the casserole’s flavor and helps the crumbs crisp up nicely.

Directions for Pineapple Cheese Casserole

Making the Pineapple Cheese Casserole is a breeze, and I’m excited to guide you through each step! This recipe is straightforward, so you can enjoy the process as much as the result. Let’s get started on creating this delicious dish that’s sure to be a hit!

Preheat your oven to 350ºF. It’s essential to have your oven ready before you start assembling the casserole to ensure even cooking.
Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and ensure it comes out beautifully.
Drain the pineapple, but make sure to reserve 1/2 cup of the juice. This juice will add flavor and moisture to your casserole.
Place the drained pineapple chunks in the bottom of the prepared dish. You want to spread them out evenly to ensure every bite is flavorful.
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and sugar. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pineapple chunks. This step will add a delightful sweetness and texture.
Drizzle the reserved pineapple juice over the mixture. This will keep everything moist and flavorful as it bakes.
Now, sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the pineapple. This will melt and create a creamy layer that binds the flavors together.
Top the casserole with the Ritz Cracker crumbs. This is where the crunch comes in, and it’s essential for that contrasting texture.
Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole. This will help the crumbs crisp up and add richness to the dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, until it’s bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it; you want that perfect golden color!

Customization Ideas

There are plenty of ways to customize the Pineapple Cheese Casserole to suit your taste. Whether you want to add a bit of spice or swap ingredients, the possibilities are endless!

Storage: After making it, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors tend to deepen as it sits.
Freezing: Yes! This casserole freezes well. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It’ll last for up to three months in the freezer.
Pairing: This casserole pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish. It also complements roasted vegetables beautifully!
Spice it up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the pineapple layer for a spicy kick.
Cheese variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. A mix of Monterey Jack and pepper jack can add a unique flavor twist!
Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten up the dish and add a lovely freshness.

Serving This Pineapple Cheese Casserole

This Pineapple Cheese Casserole is not just a dish; it’s a wonderful addition to any meal. Here are some ideas on how to serve it:

Casual Gatherings: Serve it at potlucks or family reunions. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Holiday Dinners: This casserole is perfect for festive occasions, like Thanksgiving or Easter, adding a unique sweet and savory element to your holiday spread.
Picnics: Take it along for a picnic! It’s easy to pack and makes for a delightful outdoor meal.
Comfort Food Nights: Pair it with a simple green salad for a cozy dinner at home, or serve it alongside grilled meats for a more substantial meal.
Seasonal Touches: In summer, consider adding fresh herbs or citrus zest to brighten it up, while in winter, serve it as a hearty side with roasted vegetables.
Leftover Treat: The next day, serve it warm as a light lunch or snack. It tastes just as delicious and can be reheated easily!

Things Worth Knowing

Ensure even cooking by preheating your oven thoroughly before baking the casserole.
Allow the Pineapple Cheese Casserole to cool slightly before serving for better slicing.
If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can increase the sugar to suit your palate.
Experiment with different cheese textures; using a mix of sharp and mild can enhance flavor.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the Pineapple Cheese Casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake it, just pop it in the oven; it may need a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge. This is a great way to save time if you’re hosting a gathering!

This casserole is incredibly versatile! It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, such as chicken or fish, and can also complement a refreshing salad. For a cozy meal, serve it alongside roasted vegetables. The Pineapple Cheese Casserole can add a sweet touch to any savory dish on your table.

To store any leftover Pineapple Cheese Casserole, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep for about four days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making it even more delicious!

Yes, you can freeze the Pineapple Cheese Casserole! Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then cover it with foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake until heated through. This is a great option for meal prep!

Conclusion

The Pineapple Cheese Casserole is truly a delightful dish that brings together the best of sweet and savory flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or as a comforting side for a weeknight dinner, it offers a unique twist that everyone will love. I encourage you to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your household!