Sweet and Savory Pineapple Casserole with Cheddar and Cracker Topping Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that beautifully balances the bright, juicy zest of pineapple with the rich, hearty goodness of cheddar cheese, you have to try this Sweet and Savory Pineapple Casserole with Cheddar and Cracker Topping Recipe. It’s a delightful blend of textures and flavors—a lightly sweet pineapple base mingling with savory sharpness and a buttery, crispy cracker topping. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or simply want to brighten your dinner table, this casserole will bring smiles and satisfied plates all around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is wonderfully straightforward with pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy. You’ll love how each one works together to create this comforting, crowd-pleasing dish.
- Pineapple chunks and crushed pineapple (20 oz cans each): Fresh, juicy fruit provides the signature sweetness and moisture that defines this casserole.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Amplifies the natural sweetness without overpowering the savory elements.
- All-purpose flour (6 tablespoons): Acts as a thickener, giving the filling the right texture to hold everything together.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Adds a sharp, creamy depth that complements the pineapple beautifully.
- Butter, melted (1/2 cup): Brings richness to the cracker topping, ensuring it becomes golden and crispy.
- Ritz crackers, crushed (1 sleeve): Provides a buttery, crunchy finish that’s simply irresistible on top of the sweet and savory filling.
How to Make Sweet and Savory Pineapple Casserole with Cheddar and Cracker Topping Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly—this helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier after enjoying the cheesy goodness.
Step 2: Combine the Pineapple Mixture
In a large bowl, mix together the drained pineapple chunks and crushed pineapple. Stir in the sugar, flour, and shredded cheddar cheese until everything is evenly combined. This mixture is the heart of the casserole, bursting with juicy sweetness and cheesy flavor.
Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the pineapple and cheese mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out for an even bake and beautiful presentation once cooked.
Step 4: Make the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the crushed Ritz crackers, mixing until the crackers are thoroughly coated. This mixture will form a golden, crunchy layer during baking that contrasts perfectly with the tender filling.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the pineapple mixture. Bake in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is a gorgeous golden brown and the casserole bubbles invitingly at the sides.
Step 6: Let It Cool and Serve
After baking, let the casserole cool slightly—about 5 to 10 minutes—before serving. This allows the filling to settle and makes it easier to cut into neat squares for plating.
How to Serve Sweet and Savory Pineapple Casserole with Cheddar and Cracker Topping Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or finely sliced green onions on top just before serving can brighten the look and lend a pop of fresh color and subtle freshness that complements the casserole’s richness.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Think light and green like a crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables to balance the sweet and cheesy flavors. It also works beautifully alongside savory main courses like baked ham, roasted chicken, or grilled pork chops.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions—or even as a sharable appetizer by scooping onto toasted baguette slices. The contrasting textures and flavors make it exciting in any presentation!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. It stays fresh for 3 to 4 days, making it an excellent option for make-ahead meals or quick weeknight dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze this Pineapple Casserole before baking. Just assemble in a freezer-safe dish, cover well, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the topping regains its crunch—about 15 to 20 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can soften the crispy cracker crust.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple will give an even fresher, brighter flavor. Just make sure to drain any excess juice after cutting to avoid making the casserole too watery.
Is there an alternative to Ritz crackers for the topping?
Definitely. You can use buttery breadcrumbs, crushed saltine crackers, or even crushed buttery pretzels to achieve a similar crisp texture with a slightly different flavor.
Can this casserole be made dairy-free?
Yes, swap the cheddar cheese for a dairy-free cheese alternative and use a plant-based butter substitute. Keep in mind the flavor profile will shift slightly but it will still be delicious.
How spicy or sweet is this dish?
This casserole focuses on balancing sweet and savory flavors without any spice heat. The sweetness from pineapple and sugar pairs perfectly with the sharpness of cheddar—no spicy kick involved!
Can I double the recipe for a larger gathering?
Yes! Just double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish or two standard ones. Keep an eye on baking time—the casserole is done when bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet and Savory Pineapple Casserole with Cheddar and Cracker Topping Recipe is a timeless classic that effortlessly blends indulgence and comfort. I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how simply ingredients come together to create such a truly special dish everyone will love. It’s a perfect way to add a little sunshine and warmth to your table.
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Sweet and Savory Pineapple Casserole with Cheddar and Cracker Topping Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Pineapple Casserole is a delightful sweet and savory side dish featuring a blend of pineapple chunks, crushed pineapple, cheddar cheese, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping. Baked to golden perfection, it offers a perfect balance of tangy fruitiness and creamy cheese, making it a unique addition to any holiday or family meal.
Ingredients
Fruit 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 and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix Pineapple Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pineapple chunks and crushed pineapple. Add the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and shredded cheddar cheese, then mix everything well until fully incorporated.
- Pour Mixture into Dish: Transfer the pineapple and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter and the crushed Ritz crackers until the cracker crumbs are evenly coated.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the pineapple filling. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors settle and to avoid burns.
Notes
- Ensure pineapples are well-drained to prevent a watery casserole.
- Using sharp cheddar cheese adds more depth of flavor.
- Crush the Ritz crackers finely for an even topping.
- This dish pairs well with ham or as part of a holiday spread.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed cold or warmed up.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
