Description
This Southern Pineapple Casserole is a delightful sweet and savory side dish featuring crushed pineapple, sharp cheddar cheese, and a crunchy buttery cracker topping. Perfectly baked to a golden brown, it offers a unique combination of flavors and textures that complement any meal. Ideal for potlucks, holiday dinners, or a comforting family dinner side.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans (20 oz each) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Topping
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz or saltines)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven & Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the drained crushed pineapple, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, salt, and beaten eggs. Stir these ingredients together until well mixed and smooth.
- Add Cheese & Butter: Incorporate the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and the melted unsalted butter into the mixture. Stir until all components are fully combined, creating a uniform batter.
- Pour into Baking Dish: Transfer the pineapple and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly to create a smooth surface for even baking.
- Prepare the Topping: In a separate small bowl, combine the crushed buttery crackers with the remaining 1/4 cup of melted butter. Mix well so the crackers are evenly coated with butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pineapple casserole in the baking dish.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Bake until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges, indicating it is cooked through.
- Serve & Enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly for a few minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature as a sweet and savory addition to your meal.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the pineapple thoroughly to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.
- Sharp cheddar cheese provides the best contrast of flavor; however, you may substitute with mild cheddar if preferred.
- The cracker topping adds a delicious buttery crunch, but you can also use breadcrumbs seasoned with a little sugar and cinnamon for a twist.
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold from the fridge.
- Letting the casserole cool slightly before serving helps the layers set for easier slicing.
