Pineapple Casserole: A Sweet and Savory Southern Favorite

Pineapple casserole is a simple and delicious Southern dish that blends sweet pineapple with sharp cheddar cheese and crunchy crackers. This unique recipe has been loved for generations, especially during family gatherings and holidays. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a dessert, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

What Is Pineapple Casserole?

This dish is a well-loved part of Southern cooking. It combines sweet pineapple chunks, creamy cheese, and a buttery cracker topping. Although it might sound unusual, the mix of flavors and textures works perfectly. For more about the traditions of Southern cuisine, check out this guide to Southern cuisine.

The dish is not only tasty but also easy to prepare. You can serve it with savory foods like baked ham or turkey, where it adds a touch of sweetness to the meal. Pineapple is also a great source of vitamin C and other nutrients. To learn about the benefits of pineapple, visit this Healthline article.

How to Make Pineapple Casserole

Making pineapple casserole is simple and only needs a few ingredients. Here’s how you can make it step-by-step.

Ingredients

2 cans (20 oz each) of pineapple chunks, drained
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup sugar
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 sleeve buttery crackers, crushed
1/2 cup melted butter

Directions

Prepare the Filling:
Combine the pineapple chunks, sugar, and flour in a bowl. Mix until the pineapple is coated.
Add Cheese:
Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese evenly. The sharp cheese gives the casserole its unique flavor.
Assemble the Casserole:
Spread the mixture in a greased baking dish.
Make the Topping:
Mix the crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle this over the pineapple filling for a crunchy topping.
Bake:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes or until the topping turns golden brown.

Variations and Ideas

You can make this dish your own with a few simple changes:

Add Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added texture.
Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crackers and flour.
Try a New Cheese: Replace cheddar with mozzarella or gouda for a different taste.
Use Fresh Pineapple: Swap canned pineapple for fresh chunks to make it lighter.

These small tweaks allow you to customize the dish for your preferences.

How to Serve Pineapple Casserole

This dish is very flexible and works well with many meals. Here are some ideas:

Pair it with baked ham or roasted turkey for a sweet and salty combination.
Serve it alongside grilled chicken or pork chops for a balanced plate.
Enjoy it as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

No matter how you serve it, this dish is sure to be a favorite.

Nutrition and Tips for a Healthier Option

While pineapple casserole is delicious, it can be rich. Here’s a basic breakdown of its nutrition per serving:

Calories: 250
Carbs: 35g
Fat: 12g
Protein: 4g

If you want a healthier version:

Replace some sugar with honey or a sugar substitute.
Use low-fat cheese to reduce calories.
Cut back on the butter in the topping or try whole-grain crackers.

These changes can make the dish lighter while still keeping it tasty.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Make sure it’s sweet and ripe, and drain any extra juice to avoid a soggy casserole.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F to keep the topping crisp.

Can I make pineapple casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and refrigerate it (without the topping) for up to 24 hours. Add the topping right before baking.

Why You’ll Love Pineapple Casserole

In conclusion, pineapple casserole is a simple but flavorful dish that brings a sweet and savory twist to any meal. It’s easy to prepare, uses basic ingredients, and can be customized in many ways. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a dessert, it’s a recipe worth trying.

Make it your own with the tips and variations provided, and enjoy every bite. If you’d like to learn more about cheddar cheese for recipes, check out this cheddar cheese guide.