Description

Looking for a unique and irresistible side dish? This Southern Pineapple Casserole is the perfect combination of sweet and savory, blending juicy pineapple, melted cheddar cheese, and a crunchy buttery cracker topping. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly versatile, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering—whether it’s a holiday meal, a weeknight dinner, or a summer BBQ. Plus, it’s pork-free and alcohol-free, making it an ideal dish for various dietary preferences. Let’s dive in and whip up this delicious classic!

Ingredients

For the Pineapple Mixture:

2 (20-ounce) cans crushed pineapple (drained, with ½ cup juice reserved)
½ cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

For the Topping:

1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers), crushed
½ cup (1 stick) melted butter

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine drained pineapple, granulated sugar, and flour.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the pineapple mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until combined.
Evenly sprinkle the cracker mixture over the pineapple mixture.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm as a side dish or even a dessert!

Notes

For a Dairy-Free Version:
- Swap cheddar cheese with dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Use vegan butter instead of regular butter.
For a Gluten-Free Version:
- Replace Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs.
- Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Make Ahead Tip:
- Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Storage & Reheating:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to re-crisp the topping.

Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 35 min
Category: dinner

Nutrition

Serving Size: Serves 6-8 people
Calories: 320
Sodium: 340mg
Fat: 17g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g