Pineapple casserole is uniquely delectable, blending together sweet and savory flavors enough to make it an instant hit with any family. Whether it is to complement one’s main course or it offers a more crowd-appealing side course at some gathering, **pineapple casserole** will do the job beautifully. In this post, we are going to help you go through a simple yet full-of-flavor **pineapple casserole** recipe which would definitely become a sure shot at your forthcoming event.
What Is Pineapple Casserole?
Before you get into the recipe, you are probably wondering what a pineapple casserole is. **Pineapple casserole** at its root is a warm, baked dish that combines the bright, tropical sweetness of pineapple with the creamy, savory elements of cheese and crackers. What results is a dish of comfort that is delightful in its sweetness and has a little added richness with something savory. Some examples of variations that you can do are adding items like eggs, butter, and even nuts for added texture and flavor.
One of the beauties of **pineapple casserole** is that it can fit in any place or time: for lunch or dinner, as a side dish with ham or roasted chicken, or even all by itself for Sunday brunch or at a potluck. It’s really, really simple to make, and it’s something that can be fiddled with to fit your taste. Whether you like it more cheesy, tangy, or sweet, this dish truly can be made to fit your perfect flavor profile.
Why You Will Love Pineapple Casserole
Here’s why you should add the **pineapple casserole** to your menu:
1. **Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory:** The combination of pineapple with savory ingredients like cheese and crackers makes this casserole’s flavor profile perfectly balanced, hence very comforting and satisfying.
2. **Easy to Make:** The ingredients are simple and the preparation doesn’t take long. This casserole will be in the oven in no time.
3. **Crowd Pleaser:** Whether it’s for a holiday dinner, a potluck, or just a plain weeknight meal, this dish is going to blow the minds of your guests.
4. **Versatile:** You can have it with ham, chicken, or just on its own as a sweet treat. There isn’t quite versatility with this dish.
Now, let’s get to the recipe!
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Pineapple Casserole Recipe
#### Ingredients:
* 2 cans (20 oz) of crushed pineapple, drained, or 4 cups fresh pineapple, chopped
* 1 cup sugar
* 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
* 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or any buttery cracker of your choice
– 1/2 cup melted butter
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract-to taste, or for a sweeter twist
– Pinch of salt-to taste and optional, but it enhances the flavor
#### Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
Preheat your oven to 350°F-or 175°C. This way, the casserole bakes well and through.
2. **Prepare the Pineapple:**
If using canned pineapple, drain the pineapple well. In case you are using fresh pineapple, chop it into small pieces and keep it aside. Well-drained pineapple lends a sweet and juicy base to this casserole.
3. **Mix the Wet Ingredients:**
In a large bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, and beaten eggs. Mix these well to ensure that all are properly combined. It binds the ingredients properly and comes out creamy once baked.
4. **Add Pineapple and Cheese:**
Fold in the drained pineapple and shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese will melt when it bakes into a marvelously creamy and goopy consistency to go along with the sweetness in the pineapple.
5. **Prepare the Topping:**
In a separate bowl, combine the crushed crackers with a little bit of melted butter until the crackers are well coated. This will constitute the crispy, buttered topping, giving the casserole its satisfying crunch.
6. **Assemble the Casserole:**
Butter or spray with cooking spray a 9×9-inch baking dish. In the prepared baking dish, place the pineapple and cheese mixture. Spread evenly. Sprinkle with the cracker mixture. When baked, the crackers will make a nice golden crunchy topping.
7. **Bake:**
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Cheese should be melted and pineapple warm and tender.
8. **Serve:**
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Goes really well with ham, roasted chicken, or even as a side for a holiday meal. You can serve this on its own as a brunch dish.
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### How to Make a Perfect Pineapple Casserole
Instead, use fresh pineapple. While canned pineapple will suffice, adding fresh pineapple to this casserole will bring more sweetness and a fruitier, fresher flavor.
Make sure you experiment with cheese. Although traditionally sharp cheddar is used, you can substitute other types of cheeses, such as Monterey Jack, or even a combination for a more complexly flavored cheese taste.
Add Some Crunch: You can also add some crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts on top for added textural contrast. This will add a nice crunchy texture and nutty flavor that goes great with the pineapple and cheese.
Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer your dishes to be on the sweeter side, don’t hesitate to add just a smidgen more sugar, or even drizzle some honey over the top before baking.
**Make Ahead:** If desired, **pineapple casserole** can be made a day in advance. Assemble then cover with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate overnight and bake when needed.