Pineapple Casserole
Pineapple, cheddar and a butter cracker topping baked until bubbling. Sweet, salty and easy to carry to a party.
Pineapple Casserole
Course: Side DishDifficulty: Easy10
servings15
minutes30
minutesPineapple, cheddar and a butter cracker topping baked until bubbling. Sweet, salty and easy to carry to a party.
Ingredients
2 cans (20 oz each) pineapple chunks, drained, 1/4 cup juice reserved
3/4 cup sugar
6 tablespoons flour
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar
1/4 cup reserved pineapple juice
1 sleeve (about 35) buttery round crackers, crushed
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Directions
- Heat the oven to 350°F and butter a 2-quart baking dish.
- Drain the pineapple well and save 1/4 cup of the juice.
- Whisk the sugar and flour together in a large bowl.
- Stir in the reserved juice, vanilla and salt until smooth.
- Fold in the pineapple and the cheddar.
- Spread the mixture in the dish.
- Toss the crushed crackers with the melted butter until damp.
- Scatter the crumbs over the top.
- Bake 30 minutes, until the topping is golden and the edges bubble, and let it rest 10 minutes.
- Spoon into a ceramic serving dish and add parsley.
Notes
- Use crushed pineapple for a smoother dish. Assemble without the topping a day ahead and add the crumbs just before baking. Leftovers keep 3 days. Swap the crackers for panko if you cannot find them.
Why sweet and salty works
The tart pineapple balances the sharp cheddar, and the buttery cracker crumbs add crunch. It reads as a side and a bit of dessert together. It is a classic dish at holiday tables and potlucks.
Sharp cheddar stands up to the sweet pineapple. A mild one disappears. Shred your own cheese so it melts evenly.
Pineapple Casserole swaps
Panko with a little butter works for the crackers. Mild cheddar suits sweeter tastes. Do not use fresh pineapple without cooking it, since it is too watery.
Cold leftovers do not suit this casserole. Reheat a portion in the oven so the crumbs crisp again.
What to serve
Baked ham is the classic partner. Roast chicken or pork also works.
This is a casserole that travels well. Carry it in the baking dish with foil over the top, and warm it for a few minutes on arrival.
A common mistake
Not draining the pineapple well, which makes the dish soupy. Add the crumbs just before baking so they stay crisp.
A frequent error is soaking the crackers in butter until they are greasy. Toss just until damp.
Pineapple Casserole at a glance
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 10 servings
- Ingredients: 10, led by (20 oz each) pineapple chunks, sugar, flour, shredded sharp cheddar
Tips for Pineapple Casserole
Use crushed pineapple for a smoother dish. Assemble without the topping a day ahead and add the crumbs just before baking. Leftovers keep 3 days. Swap the crackers for panko if you cannot find them.
Pineapple Casserole FAQ
How long does Pineapple Casserole take?
Pineapple Casserole takes 30 minutes of cooking after 15 minutes of prep.
How many people does Pineapple Casserole serve?
This recipe makes 10 servings.
What do I need to make Pineapple Casserole?
10 ingredients, led by (20 oz each) pineapple chunks, sugar, flour, shredded sharp cheddar. Amounts are in the recipe card above.
Part of: 26 Easy Easter Side Dishes for a Sweet and Savory Spread
