Description
This Southern Pineapple Casserole is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors featuring crushed pineapple, sharp cheddar cheese, and a buttery cracker topping. Baked to golden perfection, it serves as a perfect side dish or a comforting dessert that’s popular in Southern cuisine. With a luscious, creamy texture and a crunchy topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans (20 oz each) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Topping
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz or saltines)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven & Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or a non-stick spray to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the drained crushed pineapple, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, salt, and beaten eggs until well combined to create the base mixture.
- Add Cheese & Butter: Incorporate the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and the melted butter into the pineapple mixture, mixing thoroughly to evenly distribute.
- Pour into Baking Dish: Transfer the prepared mixture into your greased baking dish and spread it out evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with 1/4 cup melted butter until all the crackers are well coated. Sprinkle this crumbly mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
- Serve & Enjoy: Allow the casserole to cool slightly after baking to set. Serve warm or at room temperature as a delightful side dish or dessert.
Notes
- Drain the pineapple thoroughly to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor contrast with the sweet pineapple.
- Buttery crackers like Ritz work well for the topping, but saltines can be used as an alternative.
- This dish is best served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
- Make sure to grease the baking dish well to avoid sticking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
