Yummy! Southern Pineapple Casserole is a delightful and savory-sweet dish that brings together the tropical flavor of pineapple with the comforting richness of cheese and buttery crackers. It’s a classic Southern favorite that’s perfect for gatherings or as a side dish to complement any meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 (20 ounce) can pineapple chunks
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ cup white sugar, or to taste
- 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
- 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 40 buttery round crackers (such as Ritz®), crushed
- ½ cup butter, melted, or to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Drain the pineapple chunks, reserving 1/4 cup of the juice. Transfer both the chunks and juice into a large bowl.
- Add flour, sugar, shredded Cheddar cheese, and drained, crushed pineapple; mix well to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers and melted butter together; sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pineapple mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 30 minutes.
Tips:
- For added texture and flavor, you can include chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts in the cracker topping.
- Adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preference. Some prefer a sweeter casserole, while others prefer it less sweet.
- Ensure the casserole is baked until golden brown for a crunchy topping and creamy interior.
Conclusion:
With its irresistible blend of tangy pineapple, gooey cheese, and buttery crackers, Southern Pineapple Casserole is sure to become a cherished addition to your recipe collection. Serve it warm and watch as it disappears from the table, leaving behind satisfied smiles and requests for seconds! Enjoy this comforting dish with friends and family for a taste of Southern hospitality. Yummy indeed!
- Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple?
- Yes, you can use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple. Simply chop fresh pineapple into chunks and use them in place of canned pineapple. However, you may need to adjust the sugar content to compensate for the natural sweetness of fresh pineapple.
- Can I substitute the sharp Cheddar cheese with another type of cheese?
- While sharp Cheddar cheese provides a distinct flavor to the casserole, you can experiment with other types of cheese such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even cream cheese for a different taste profile. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary depending on the cheese you choose.
- How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- To make the Southern Pineapple Casserole gluten-free, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, ensure that the crackers used for the topping are gluten-free. Check the labels of all ingredients to avoid any potential sources of gluten.
- Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the Southern Pineapple Casserole ahead of time. You can assemble the casserole up to the point of adding the cracker topping, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate it overnight. Before baking, sprinkle the cracker topping over the casserole and bake according to the recipe instructions. This is convenient for meal prep or when hosting gatherings.