Introduction: The Simplest Pineapple Casserole is a delightful and comforting side dish, perfect for family gatherings or holiday meals. With its sweet, tangy pineapple flavor combined with a buttery, crunchy topping, it’s a perfect balance of savory and sweet. It’s super easy to make and requires only a few ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for those in a pinch but wanting to impress.
Ingredients:
2 cans (20 oz each) of crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup sugar
1 stick (½ cup) butter, melted
1 large egg, beaten
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 sleeve of buttery crackers (e.g., Ritz), crushed
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained pineapple and sugar.
Add the melted butter and beaten egg into the mixture and stir until well combined.
Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese.
Pour the pineapple mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
Crush the crackers and sprinkle them over the top of the casserole.
Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Description: This casserole is a sweet and savory dish that pairs beautifully with ham or roasted meats. The richness of the cheddar cheese blends perfectly with the tropical sweetness of the pineapple, while the buttery crackers on top add a satisfying crunch. It’s a surprisingly delightful dish that’s both sweet and savory and sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Tips:
For a richer flavor, try using pineapple chunks instead of crushed pineapple for more texture.
You can make this casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge, then bake it just before serving.
If you prefer a more buttery topping, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of melted butter to the cracker crumbs.
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the crackers with gluten-free varieties.
Variations:
Coconut Pineapple Casserole: Add shredded coconut to the casserole for a tropical twist.
Spicy Pineapple Casserole: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped jalapeño to the mixture to add a bit of heat.
Nutty Variation: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for extra texture and flavor.
Savory Pineapple Casserole: Use a sharper cheese like aged cheddar and leave out the sugar for a more savory version.
Corrections:
Ensure that the pineapple is well-drained before using it in the casserole. This prevents excess moisture that can affect the texture.
If the casserole isn’t browning on top, you can increase the oven temperature to 375°F for the last few minutes of baking.
Enjoy:
Once the casserole is done and slightly cooled, serve it alongside your favorite roasted meats or as a delightful side dish at your next family meal. Its balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy flavors is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!