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Let me share my favorite Southern comfort dish Paula Deen's Pineapple Casserole. I know it sounds unusual pineapple and cheese together? But trust me this sweet and savory combination is pure magic. The way the melty cheese mingles with juicy pineapple under that buttery cracker crust gets everyone asking for seconds.
Why You Need This Recipe
This casserole has become my go to for potlucks and holiday dinners. With just six ingredients and 30 minutes you've got something totally unique. That combination of tangy pineapple sharp cheddar and buttery Ritz crackers just works. It's comfort food with a Southern twist.
Grab These Ingredients
- Pineapple: Two cans I like chunks but tidbits work too save that juice.
- Cheddar: 2 cups freshly grated makes all the difference.
- Flour: Just 2 tablespoons helps thicken things up.
- Sugar: 1 cup to balance the tang.
- Crackers: 1 cup crushed Ritz are my favorite.
- Butter: 1/2 cup melted makes that topping irresistible.
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Let's Make It
- Get Started
- Heat your oven to 350°F and butter your casserole dish.
- Mix It Up
- Drain that pineapple saving the juice mix with cheese flour and sugar spread it in your dish.
- Top It Off
- Toss those crushed crackers with melted butter and a splash of pineapple juice sprinkle over top.
- Bake to Golden
- Pop it in the oven for about 25-30 minutes until that topping is beautifully golden.
My Best Tips
Make sure to drain that pineapple really well nobody likes a soggy casserole. Always grate your own cheese those pre shredded bags just don't melt the same. Keep an eye on that topping it can go from golden to burnt pretty quick.
Perfect Pairings
This casserole shines alongside baked ham or turkey. For dessert add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. I love serving it both ways sometimes in the same meal.
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Mix It Up
Try adding cinnamon for warmth or chili flakes for kick. Sometimes I mix in fresh raspberries for color. For gluten free guests swap in GF crackers and flour works perfectly.
Keep It Fresh
Leftovers stay good 5 days in the fridge. Want to freeze? It keeps 2 months just thaw overnight then warm in the oven till heated through.
Why We Love It
Something special happens when you combine sweet pineapple salty cheese and buttery crackers. It's that perfect Southern dish that shows up at every holiday and potluck.
Make It Yours
Add diced ham for extra savory flavor or drizzle with honey for more sweetness. This recipe is so forgiving you can really make it your own.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this ahead?
Yes, prepare up to the baking step and refrigerate overnight. Add topping just before baking. Let dish come to room temperature first.
- → What type of crackers work best?
Ritz crackers are traditional and give the best buttery flavor. Any butter cracker will work though.
- → Is this dish served hot or cold?
It can be served warm, room temperature, or chilled. Most prefer it warm when the cheese is melty.
- → What does this go well with?
This casserole pairs perfectly with ham and is often served at Easter. It's also great with any Southern meat main dish.
- → Can I use fresh pineapple?
Canned pineapple works best as it's more consistent in sweetness and moisture. Fresh may make the casserole too wet.