This Pineapple Casserole is a sweet and tangy dish that everyone will love. It combines juicy pineapple, gooey cheese, and crunchy crackers for a fun twist!
I love serving this at family gatherings because it’s always a hit. Plus, who can resist the surprise of cheese in a fruity casserole? It’s a quirky delight! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crushed Pineapple: Using a mix of undrained and drained pineapple makes the casserole moist and flavorful. If fresh pineapple is in season, you can chop it up as a substitute! Just be sure to get the right amount of juice.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The bold flavor of sharp cheddar is key in this dish. If you’re looking for a milder option, you can use medium cheddar or even Monterey Jack cheese. Mixing in a little cream cheese can add creaminess!
Butter Crackers: Ritz crackers are the go-to for that buttery crunch. If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free cracker brands, or you can use crushed cornflakes for a similar texture.
Shredded Coconut: This adds a nice sweetness and texture to the dish. If coconut isn’t your thing, you can leave it out or toss in some chopped nuts for a different crunch.
How Do You Make Sure Your Casserole Sets Properly?
Getting your casserole to set just right can be a challenge, but it’s all about the baking time and temperature. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure the oven is fully preheated before baking. This ensures even cooking from the start.
- Keep the casserole covered with foil for the first 20 minutes to help it cook evenly and prevent the top from browning too quickly. Remove the foil after that to allow the top to crisp up.
- Look for a golden brown color on top and slightly puffed edges when it’s done. The center should feel firm to the touch.
- Let it cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving, which will help it set further.
With these tips, you’re sure to impress everyone with a perfectly baked Pineapple Casserole! Enjoy! 🍍✨
Pineapple Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed butter crackers (such as Ritz)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 40-45 minutes of baking time. After baking, you’ll want to let it cool for a bit before serving. So, in total, you should plan for about 1 hour (including cooling time) to get this delicious casserole ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. This will ensure your casserole comes out easily once it’s done baking.
2. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the undrained crushed pineapple, drained crushed pineapple, shredded cheddar cheese, sugar, eggs, and shredded coconut. Stir everything together until it’s mixed well. You should have a thick, chunky mixture that looks yummy already!
3. Add the Mixture to the Dish:
Next, pour the pineapple mixture into your greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula or spoon so it cooks uniformly throughout.
4. Prepare the Cracker Topping:
In a separate small bowl, mix the crushed butter crackers with the melted butter until all the crumbs are coated. This will create that delicious, crunchy topping that contrasts perfectly with the soft casserole beneath!
5. Top and Bake:
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of the pineapple mixture in the baking dish. Now it’s time to pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for 40–45 minutes, watching for a golden brown color on top and a slightly firm center—the perfect sign that your casserole is ready.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling time helps everything set up nicely. Serve warm or at room temperature, and watch your family and friends enjoy every bite!
This delightful casserole blends the tangy sweetness of pineapple with a rich, cheesy base topped with a buttery, crunchy cracker crust, making it a perfect addition to any gathering or special occasion!
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh pineapple, simply chop about 3 cups of fresh pineapple to replace both the undrained and drained canned varieties. Just be sure to squeeze out any extra juice to maintain the right consistency.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance! Assemble the mixture and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply add the cracker topping and bake as directed. It might need a few extra minutes in the oven if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, covering it with foil in the oven to prevent drying out. It’s delicious warm or at room temperature!
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Casserole?
Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet casserole, feel free to reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup or more according to your taste. You can also balance the sweetness with a bit of lemon juice for added flavor.
