Description
A classic Southern side dish that surprises everyone with its unique and addictive combination of sweet and savory. This holiday staple features a warm, bubbly pineapple base balanced by sharp cheddar cheese and a buttery, golden Ritz cracker crust.
Ingredients
The Pineapple Base
- 2 (20-oz) cans pineapple chunks, drained (reserve 6 tbsp juice)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp all-purpose flour
The Layers & Topping
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 sleeve buttery round crackers (Ritz), crushed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 2-quart dish.
Mix: Whisk sugar, flour, and 6 tbsp reserved juice into a paste. Toss with pineapple chunks.
Layer: Pour pineapple into dish. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar.
Top: Mix crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle over the cheese.
Bake: Bake for 30 mins until golden and bubbly. Let rest for 10 mins before serving.
Notes
The ‘Sharp’ Secret: Extra sharp cheddar is essential for the savory contrast; mild cheese will disappear in the sweetness.
Drain Thoroughly: Let pineapple sit in a colander for a full minute to prevent a runny casserole.
Shred Your Own: Avoid pre-shredded bags; the potato starch coating can cause a grainy texture when melted.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking / Layering
- Cuisine: American Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Scoop
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 26
- Sodium: 290
- Fat: 21
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Unsaturated Fat: 9
- Trans Fat: 0.5
- Carbohydrates: 38
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 8
- Cholesterol: 55
Keywords: southern pineapple cheese casserole, ritz cracker pineapple bake, holiday side dishes, sweet and savory pineapple recipe, baked pineapple with cheddar, retro southern recipes, potluck favorites