Pineapple casserole is a sweet and tangy dish that’s sure to brighten up any meal. With juicy pineapple chunks, a crunchy topping, and a hint of cinnamon, it’s like a fruity hug on a plate!
Serving this casserole is always a hit at gatherings! People are often surprised by how tasty it is—it’s a fun mix of sweet and savory that makes you want to come back for seconds! 😋
I love making pineapple casserole because it’s super easy. Just mix the ingredients, bake, and enjoy! It pairs perfectly with ham or on its own as a tasty side dish. Give it a try!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crushed Pineapple: This is the star of the dish. You can use fresh pineapple if you prefer, just chop it finely and reduce the juice to maintain the texture.
Sugar: Regular granulated sugar works well, but you can substitute with brown sugar for a richer flavor. If you’re looking to cut down on sugar, try using honey or a sugar alternative like stevia, but adjust the quantity.
All-Purpose Flour: This helps bind everything together. For a gluten-free option, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour or almond flour, but be aware it might change the texture a bit.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for added flavor. If you need a milder option, feel free to use medium cheddar or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re lactose intolerant.
Crushed Buttery Crackers: Ritz are classic, but don’t hesitate to use other crispy crackers like saltines or club crackers. You can also use gluten-free crackers for those with dietary restrictions.
Egg: The egg helps with binding. If you want a vegan alternative, try using flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed plus 2.5 tablespoons water) as a substitute.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the right bake time is crucial for your casserole. You’ll want the top to be golden and slightly crisp, so watch closely. Here’s how to check for doneness:
- After 30 minutes, check if the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. If still pale, bake for another 5 minutes.
- Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready!
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This waiting time helps set the dish, making it easier to scoop out and serve.
Pineapple Casserole Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)
- 1/2 cup melted butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Pineapple Casserole will take around 10 minutes to prep and about 30-35 minutes to bake. Overall, you can have this dish ready in about 45 minutes, making it a quick and tasty side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the casserole.
2. Mix the Pineapple Base:
Grab a mixing bowl and combine the drained crushed pineapple, sugar, all-purpose flour, shredded cheddar cheese, beaten egg, and salt. Mix everything together well until it’s nice and smooth.
3. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Take a 9×9 inch baking dish and grease it lightly with some butter or cooking spray. Pour the pineapple mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
4. Make the Topping:
In a separate bowl, combine the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter. Mix well until all the cracker crumbs are nicely coated with the butter.
5. Add the Topping:
Evenly sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture over the top of the pineapple mixture in the baking dish. This will give it a lovely crunchy topping!
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, carefully remove it from the oven. Let the casserole cool for just a few minutes, and then it’s ready to be served. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of your Pineapple Casserole!
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If using fresh pineapple, you’ll want to finely chop or crush it to achieve a similar texture to canned pineapple. Just be sure to remove any excess juice to keep the casserole from getting too watery.
What Can I Substitute for Cheddar Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, try using Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, for a lighter option, you can use reduced-fat cheese, but keep in mind it may not melt as smoothly.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step! Just cover the assembled dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions until warm.
