Description
This Pineapple Casserole is a delightful sweet and savory dish featuring tender pineapple chunks baked under a crispy Ritz cracker topping with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect as a unique side or a comforting dish for gatherings, this casserole blends fruity sweetness with cheesy richness for a crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Pineapple Mixture
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Topping
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare it for the casserole.
- Mix Pineapple Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained pineapple chunks and crushed pineapple with the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the pineapple mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly to form a consistent layer.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the crushed Ritz crackers until the crackers are well-coated with butter.
- Assemble and Bake: Sprinkle the buttered Ritz cracker mixture evenly over the pineapple layer in the baking dish. Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the topping becomes golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly to set before serving warm.
Notes
- Be sure to drain the pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with a sharp variety for a more intense flavor.
- For a crunchier topping, use fresh Ritz crackers instead of pre-crushed.
- This casserole pairs well with roasted meats or can be served as a side dish at holiday meals.
