Pineapple Casserole is a sweet and savory dish that perfectly captures the essence of Southern comfort food. Growing up in the South, I remember family gatherings where this casserole always appeared. The aroma of melting cheese and buttery crackers wafting through the air brought everyone to the table, reminding us of home and the warmth of family traditions.
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This casserole is more than just a side dish; it embodies the spirit of Southern hospitality and the joy of coming together. Whether served at a holiday feast or a casual get-together, Pineapple Casserole brings smiles and sparks conversations. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you, hoping it will also become a beloved part of your family’s traditions.
A Southern food classic
Southern cuisine holds a special place in my heart. I grew up in a family where food was a way to express love and hospitality. My grandmother often made Pineapple Casserole for holiday dinners, and each bite was a blend of flavors that made our gatherings feel complete.
As we sat around the table, sharing stories and laughter, this casserole became a staple of our family traditions. It represents more than just a meal; it symbolizes the love and warmth of gathering with loved ones.
Ingredients
How to make Pineapple Casserole
Making Pineapple Casserole is simple and rewarding, perfect for anyone looking to bring a taste of Southern comfort to their table. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and preparing your casserole dish. Drain the canned pineapple well, saving a little juice for later. This step ensures your casserole bakes evenly and develops that delightful golden crust.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, pineapple chunks, pineapple tidbits, reserved juice and shredded cheese. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well mixed and coated. Once combined, pour the pineapple mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. For the topping, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until the crackers are fully coated. Then, sprinkle this mixture generously over the pineapple layer.
Finally, place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it cooks; you want to see a golden brown top and bubbly cheese. Once it’s ready, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this Southern classic’s delicious flavors and warmth with family and friends!
Serving suggestions
Pineapple Casserole shines on its own, but it pairs well with other Southern dishes. Serve it alongside baked ham, fried chicken or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
For a comforting brunch, offer it with scrambled eggs and crispy bacon. No matter how you choose to serve it, this casserole embodies Southern hospitality and brings warmth to any gathering.
Storage tips
If you have leftovers, store the Pineapple Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days.
To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings, but the oven helps maintain the crispy topping.
Southern farewell
Pineapple Casserole holds a special place in my heart because it brings back fond memories of family gatherings filled with laughter and love. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones.
Embrace the spirit of Southern hospitality by bringing people together around the table. I hope this casserole becomes a cherished part of your family traditions, just as it is in mine.
Pineapple Casserole
Equipment
- 1 Medium casserole dish
Ingredients
- 16 ounces pineapple canned tidbits drained
- 16 ounces pineapple canned chunks drained reserve ¼ cup juice
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 32 Ritz crackers crushed
- ½ cup butter melted
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese shredded
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Drain the pineapple chunks and tidbits completely, saving ¼ cup of the juice for later.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, pineapple chunks, pineapple tidbits, reserved pineapple juice and shredded cheese.
- Pour the pineapple mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Stir until the crackers are well-coated.
- Sprinkle the Ritz cracker mixture evenly over the top of the pineapple mixture in the casserole dish.
- Place the casserole in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve it warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of this Southern classic.
