I love food, and I always look for dishes that mix sweet and tangy. My grandma’s pineapple casserole was a hit at our family gatherings. It’s a pineapple casserole recipe that blends tropical pineapple with sharp cheddar cheese and buttery Ritz crackers.
This sweet and savory dish is a treat for your taste buds. It feels like stepping into a cozy Southern kitchen.
This easy pineapple casserole is quick to make, perfect for any night or holiday. It only takes 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to bake. You’ll have it ready in under an hour, ready to share with loved ones.
The History and Origins of Southern Pineapple Casserole
The pineapple casserole started in the 1950s. Back then, canned foods and quick meals were all the rage. This dish, with its mix of sweet pineapple, creamy Cheddar cheese, and a buttery cracker topping, has become a favorite in Southern cuisine. It’s also a go-to holiday side dish.
The 1950s Comfort Food Evolution
The post-war era brought more free time and a need for easy meals. The pineapple casserole filled this need. It combined canned pineapple and Cheddar cheese, baked to perfection. This made a tasty side dish that families in the South loved.
From Side Dish to Holiday Staple
As years went by, the pineapple casserole became more than just a side. It became a holiday staple, served with baked ham or turkey at Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Its mix of sweet and savory flavors made it a hit at these special times.
Regional Significance in Southern Cuisine
The pineapple casserole is more than just a side dish in Southern cuisine. It’s a comfort food that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, side, or even dessert. Its lasting popularity shows how it brings people together and brings back memories of family and tradition.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Pineapple Casserole Recipe
To make a delicious pineapple casserole, you need the right mix of ingredients. At its core, it has unsweetened crushed pineapple and chunks. High-quality sharp cheddar cheese adds a rich flavor. White granulated sugar and all-purpose flour balance the taste.
Ritz crackers make the topping crispy and buttery. Melted butter holds everything together, making it a treat to eat.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsweetened Crushed Pineapple | 2 cans (20 oz each) |
| Pineapple Chunks | 2 cans (20 oz each) |
| Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Grated | 2 cups |
| White Granulated Sugar | 1 cup |
| All-Purpose Flour | 6 tablespoons |
| Ritz Crackers, Crushed | 1 cup |
| Unsalted Butter, Melted | 8 tablespoons (1 stick) |
For the best taste, use freshly grated cheddar cheese. This mix of ingredients will make a classic pineapple casserole that’s sure to please.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Preparing the perfect pineapple casserole is a delightful culinary journey. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create this tasty Southern classic.
Preparing the Pineapple-Cheese Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, combine the sugar, flour, and sharp cheddar cheese. Gently fold in the drained pineapple chunks or crushed pineapple, creating a luscious pineapple-cheese mixture.
Creating the Perfect Cracker Topping
For the irresistible cracker topping, simply crush Ritz crackers and mix them with melted butter. Sprinkle this buttery cracker mixture evenly over the pineapple-cheese base in the baking dish.
Baking Instructions and Tips
- Transfer the prepared pineapple casserole to a greased 1-1/2-quart baking dish.
- Bake the casserole uncovered for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Let the casserole stand for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last few minutes, but watch it closely to prevent burning.
With these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delightful pineapple casserole that’s sure to impress. Enjoy the sweet and savory combination of this pineapple casserole baking instructions and easy pineapple casserole recipe.
Recipe Variations and Creative Twists
Pineapple casserole is a favorite in the South, loved for its sweet and savory mix. You can make it your own in many ways. Add warmth, crunch, or try new cheeses to make it your own.
Spice it Up
For a twist, add cinnamon or nutmeg to the topping. It brings a warm, spicy flavor that goes well with the pineapple’s sweetness.
Crunchy Topping
Make it crunchier by adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the topping. It contrasts nicely with the soft pineapple and cheese below.
Cheese Variations
Don’t stick to sharp cheddar. Try mozzarella and Parmesan or creamy Monterey Jack for different tastes.
Fresh Pineapple
Use fresh pineapple chunks for a fresh taste. Just cut them small and drain well before adding to the casserole.
These changes let you make the dish your own while keeping its classic charm. It’s a Southern favorite that everyone loves.
| Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Spiced Topping | Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the cracker topping for warmth and aroma. |
| Crunchy Topping | Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the cracker topping for extra texture. |
| Cheese Blend | Use a combination of cheeses like mozzarella, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack. |
| Fresh Pineapple | Substitute canned pineapple with fresh pineapple chunks, well-drained. |
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
Pineapple casserole is a tasty southern dish perfect for busy times. It’s great for holidays and gatherings. Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty, whether you’re storing leftovers or making it ahead.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Let the casserole cool down completely after baking. Then, put it in an airtight container and chill it for up to 4 days. This keeps it fresh and flavorful for leftovers.
Freezing Methods
You can freeze pineapple casserole too. For unbaked casserole, put it together without the topping, cover it well, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake with the topping as usual. Baked casserole can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Cool it down first, then freeze it in a tight, freezer-safe container.
Reheating Recommendations
To reheat a thawed, baked casserole, you can use the oven or microwave. For a crispy top, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s hot and the top is golden. For quicker reheating, microwave it in 1-minute bursts until it’s warm.
By using these tips, you can enjoy pineapple casserole anytime. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday meals.
Nutritional Information and Serving Size
The Pineapple Casserole is a favorite, but knowing its nutritional facts is key. It’s a tasty treat, yet we should think about its health impact.
Each serving, about 1/12 of the casserole, has 423 calories. It has 26 grams of fat, with 15 grams being saturated. It also has 65 milligrams of cholesterol and 360 milligrams of sodium.
The casserole has 42 grams of carbs, with 31 grams of sugar. It has only 1 gram of fiber per serving.
Despite its richness, the casserole has some health benefits. It’s a good source of Vitamin C, with 9 milligrams per serving. It also has 192 milligrams of calcium.
The serving size is about 1/12 of a 1 1/2-quart casserole. This makes each serving quite large. It’s best for special occasions, not everyday meals.
In short, the Pineapple Casserole is a tasty Southern classic. But it’s high in calories, fat, and sugar. Enjoy it in moderation, as a special treat, to enjoy its taste without harming your health.
Conclusion
The classic pineapple casserole is a treasured dish in Southern cuisine. It started in the 1950s and has become a favorite. It mixes the tartness of pineapple with the richness of cheese and a crunchy topping.
This Southern-style pineapple casserole has grown from a simple side dish to a key dish for holidays and casual get-togethers. It’s loved for its simplicity and delicious taste.
The pineapple casserole is easy to make and always a hit. It pairs well with glazed ham, roasted potatoes, or sautéed Brussels sprouts. You can also add protein or sweet toppings to make it your own.
This dish truly shows the rich food culture of the American South. It’s a comfort food that brings happiness and satisfaction. Its lasting popularity shows how simple, yet amazing, dishes can unite people at the table.
FAQ – Pineapple Casserole
What is pineapple casserole?
Pineapple casserole is a mix of sweet and savory. It has canned pineapple, cheddar cheese, and Ritz crackers. This dish is a Southern favorite, blending tart pineapple with tangy cheese and a buttery cracker crust.
What are the key ingredients in pineapple casserole?
The main ingredients are unsweetened crushed pineapple and chunks, sharp cheddar cheese, sugar, flour, Ritz crackers, and butter.
How long does it take to make pineapple casserole?
It takes 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. So, it’s ready in 40 minutes.
Where did pineapple casserole originate?
It started in the 1950s with the rise of casseroles and canned fruit. It went from a side dish to a holiday favorite, often paired with ham or turkey at Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
What are some variations of pineapple casserole?
You can add cinnamon or nutmeg to the topping. Mixing in nuts like pecans or walnuts adds crunch. Try different cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a twist.
How should pineapple casserole be stored and reheated?
Cool it down and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freeze it for up to 3 months. For unbaked, assemble without topping, wrap tightly, and freeze. Thaw overnight before adding topping and baking. For baked, cool completely before freezing. Reheat in the oven for a crispy topping or in the microwave for convenience.
What are the nutrition facts for pineapple casserole?
Each serving (1/12 of the casserole) has 423 calories, 26g fat, and 15g saturated fat. It also has 65mg cholesterol, 360mg sodium, 42g carbohydrates, and 7g protein. It’s rich in Vitamin C and Calcium.
