The Simplest Pineapple Casserole: A Deliciously Easy Southern Classic

When it comes to classic Southern comfort foods, few dishes are as beloved as Pineapple Casserole. This simple yet delicious recipe combines the sweet tanginess of pineapple, the sharpness of cheddar cheese, and a crunchy Ritz cracker topping for a casserole that can double as both a side dish or dessert. Whether you’re looking for a unique addition to your holiday meal or a quick weeknight treat, this dish is sure to please.

The Simplest Pineapple Casserole is exactly what the name implies: straightforward, easy to make, and oh-so-tasty. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore how to create this irresistible dish that will have your guests coming back for seconds.

Ingredients for the Simplest Pineapple Casserole

This recipe requires just a handful of basic ingredients, many of which you may already have in your pantry. The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity, yet each component contributes to the overall flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need to make the Simplest Pineapple Casserole:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 (20 oz) can of pineapple chunks, drained: This forms the base of the casserole, providing sweetness and juiciness.
• 1 (20 oz) can of crushed pineapple, drained: Adds extra pineapple flavor and moisture.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances the tartness of the pineapple and enhances its natural sweetness.
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the mixture for a creamier consistency.
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The cheddar cheese adds a savory richness that contrasts beautifully with the sweet pineapple.
• 1 sleeve of Ritz crackers, crushed (about 1 cup): This provides the golden, buttery topping that gives the casserole its signature crunch.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Helps bind the crackers together and adds richness to the topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Pineapple Casserole

Making The Simplest Pineapple Casserole is as easy as it gets. Just follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time.

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similarly sized casserole dish. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

2. Prepare the Pineapple Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:

• Drained pineapple chunks
• Crushed pineapple
• Reserved 1/4 cup of pineapple juice
• Granulated sugar
• Flour

Stir the mixture well, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly combined. The sugar will dissolve, and the flour will thicken the mixture, helping to create a smooth and creamy casserole base.

3. Layer the Casserole

Spread the pineapple mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, making sure it forms a nice, even layer at the bottom. Once the pineapple is in place, sprinkle 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top. The cheese will melt beautifully and give the casserole a savory, rich layer that complements the sweetness of the pineapple.

4. Prepare the Cracker Topping

In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Stir until the crackers are thoroughly coated with the butter. This buttery cracker mixture will form the delicious, crunchy topping that adds the finishing touch to the casserole.

5. Assemble and Bake

Sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the cheese layer, covering it completely. Make sure the crumbs are distributed evenly to ensure that each bite has that perfect crunch.

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping turns a golden brown color and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. This will ensure that the casserole is perfectly heated through and the topping is nice and crisp.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once the casserole is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the casserole to firm up slightly, making it easier to serve. Serve it warm, either as a side dish to complement your main course or as a sweet, indulgent dessert. Either way, this dish will undoubtedly steal the show!

Why the Simplest Pineapple Casserole is a Must-Try

This recipe is a Southern classic that never fails to impress, and it’s no surprise why. The unique combination of sweet pineapple, savory cheddar cheese, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping creates a balanced and addictive flavor profile. Here’s why the Simplest Pineapple Casserole should be on your must-try list:

1. Easy and Quick to Prepare

This casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring only a few simple steps and minimal ingredients. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this dish will come together effortlessly. It’s the perfect dish when you’re short on time but want to impress your family or guests.

2. The Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory

What makes this casserole stand out is the unexpected pairing of pineapple and cheddar cheese. While the pineapple offers a juicy sweetness, the sharp cheddar cheese brings a savory richness that balances the flavors beautifully. The Ritz crackers add the perfect crunch, completing the dish with texture and flavor.

3. Versatile for Any Occasion

Whether you serve it as a side dish at a family dinner or as a dessert at a holiday gathering, this casserole works for a variety of occasions. It’s particularly popular during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other festive meals but can be enjoyed year-round.

4. Easily Customizable

While the recipe is simple, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. For instance, you can use fresh pineapple instead of canned, though you’ll need to adjust the sugar levels if using fresh fruit. For a sweeter, dessert-like version, add an extra tablespoon of sugar. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or crackers to add your own twist to the recipe.

Tips for Success

• For extra sweetness: If you prefer a dessert-like version of this casserole, feel free to add an additional tablespoon of sugar to the pineapple mixture.
• Use fresh pineapple: While canned pineapple works just fine, using fresh pineapple can enhance the tropical flavor of the dish. Just remember to adjust the sugar accordingly based on the sweetness of your pineapple.
• Leftovers: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion: A Simple, Delicious Classic

The Simplest Pineapple Casserole is a true testament to the fact that the best dishes often don’t require complex ingredients or preparation. With its sweet pineapple, savory cheese, and buttery cracker topping, it delivers a flavor-packed experience that will have your guests asking for the recipe. Whether served as a side dish or a dessert, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.