Cheesy Ritz Pineapple Casserole

While you don’t usually hear the words “cheddar cheese” and “pineapple” in the same sentence – and no, we’re not talking about pizza – this is a sweet and savory side dish that totally takes your dish to the next level. The ingredient list might seem a little confusing at first, but bear with us: the end result is a crunchy, cheesy, fruity combo that, once you put everything together, really works!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pineapple chunks, crushed pineapple, cheddar cheese, and Ritz crackers make up the heart of this dish. Even though it sounds strange, the sweet pineapple, the salty cheese, and the crunchy crackers all come together in a hot, melty casserole that will have people initially confused, but then totally hooked.

This is a southern classic that some people might recognize, but for others seems totally out of the blue. Just trust us: the cheesy fruity combo is delicious. If you’ve ever had apple slices with cheddar cheese, you’ll understand the power of the fruity salty combo, but for those of you who haven’t, you’ll just have to take the leap of faith with us and try this out for yourself.

Whether it’s served alongside some pork tenderloin or chicken thighs, this makes for a fun, tasty side dish that will most likely steal the show. Our family was skeptical at first, but everybody saw the light after that first bite and you will too – it’s so good!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk

Ingredients

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 (8 oz.) cans pineapple chunks, drained
• 1 (8 oz.) can crushed pineapples
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, optional
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350º F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cheese, sugar, and flour, mixing until the cheese is totally coated.
3. Stir in pineapple chunks and crushed pineapple, then mix in ground cinnamon, if using.
4. Pour pineapple mixture into greased baking dish.
5. In a medium bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter, then sprinkle mixture over baking dish in an even layer.
6. Place baking dish in oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until crackers are golden and crispy.
7. Remove from oven and serve hot.

Tips for Success

• Make sure to drain the pineapple well to avoid a soggy casserole.
• If you prefer, you can use less sugar to adjust the sweetness to your taste.
• The cinnamon is optional, but it adds a warm flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Additional Tips or Variations

• For a bit of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture.
• Try using different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or mozzarella, for a different flavor profile.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Note: Nutrition facts may vary based on serving size and specific ingredients used.

Calories: 350 | Carbs: 45g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 18g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pineapple mixture and the cracker topping separately. Store them in the fridge and assemble just before baking.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just make sure to cut it into small chunks and drain any excess juice.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like chicken or pork.

Conclusion

We hope you’re as excited about trying this Cheesy Ritz Pineapple Casserole as we are about sharing it with you. It’s a delightful mix of flavors that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below. Happy cooking!