Simple Pineapple Casserole

Introduction: The simple Pineapple Casserole is a beloved Southern dish that brings together an unexpected combination of flavors—sweet pineapple, savory cheddar cheese, and buttery Ritz crackers. Often served as a side dish during holidays, especially Easter, this casserole strikes a delightful balance between sweet and salty, making it an ideal companion to ham, pork, or even a festive cheese board. Its straightforward preparation and crowd-pleasing taste have cemented it as a favorite for potlucks and family gatherings​.

Ingredients:

• 20 oz. can pineapple chunks, drained (reserve 1/4 cup juice)
• 20 oz. can crushed pineapple, drained
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 30 buttery crackers (such as Ritz), crushed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted​ 

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch casserole dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pineapple chunks, crushed pineapple, reserved pineapple juice, and sugar. Mix well.
3. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and flour, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
4. Pour the pineapple mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the crushed crackers with the melted butter, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pineapple mixture.
6. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
7. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving​.

Conclusion: This simple pineapple casserole is best enjoyed fresh, straight from the oven. Its buttery, crispy topping combined with the sweet and savory pineapple filling is sure to be a hit at any gathering. If you happen to have leftovers, store them in the fridge, but note that the cracker topping may lose its crispness over time. For an extra twist, consider adding cooked ham chunks to turn this dish into a heartier meal​.