Ingredients:
- 2 (20 oz) cans of crushed pineapple, drained (reserve 1/4 cup juice)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed butter crackers (like Ritz or Saltines)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for a little extra flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar sized casserole dish.
2. Prepare the Pineapple Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pineapple (with 1/4 cup of the reserved juice), sugar, flour, and beaten egg. Stir well to ensure the ingredients are well combined.
3. Add the Cheese:
- Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the pineapple mixture. This adds a savory flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the pineapple.
4. Prepare the Cracker Topping:
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter. This will create a delicious, buttery topping for the casserole.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour the pineapple and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the buttery cracker topping over the pineapple mixture, making sure to cover it evenly.
6. Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve:
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. The sweetness from the pineapple and the savory notes from the cheddar cheese and buttery cracker topping create a perfect balance in this dish.
Tips:
- Customize with spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the pineapple mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just allow extra time for baking if it’s cold from the fridge.
This Pineapple Casserole is a delightful balance of sweet and savory, making it a hit for any meal. It’s simple to make and always gets rave reviews!