Description
A delightful and easy-to-make Pineapple Casserole combining sweet pineapple chunks and crushed pineapple with cheddar cheese, topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust. This casserole bakes to a golden, bubbly perfection, making it a perfect side dish or dessert for gatherings and family meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Topping
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick during baking.
- Mix pineapple filling: In a large bowl, combine the drained pineapple chunks and crushed pineapple with the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Pour filling into dish: Transfer the pineapple mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to form the base layer for the casserole.
- Prepare topping: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the crushed Ritz crackers until the crumbs are well coated with butter. This will create a crunchy, golden topping.
- Top casserole: Sprinkle the buttered Ritz cracker mixture evenly over the pineapple filling, covering the surface completely to form a crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool slightly before serving to allow it to set and for easier portioning.
Notes
- Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to avoid a watery casserole.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a balanced flavor contrast.
- Ritz crackers can be substituted with buttery breadcrumbs if preferred.
- This casserole can be served warm or at room temperature.
- For a milder topping, reduce butter to 1/3 cup and add a teaspoon of sugar with the cracker crumbs.
