Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe – Sweet & Savory

Southern Pineapple casserole Recipe is a classic Southern dish. It mixes sweet pineapple, sugar, and sharp cheddar cheese. This mix creates a delightful balance of flavors.

This recipe makes a big 1 1/2-quart casserole, perfect for up to 12 guests. It’s quick to prepare, needing only 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes to cook. It’s great for Easter or Christmas.

The pineapple bake has its roots in the 1950s. Back then, casseroles and canned fruit were all the rage in the U.S. Today, this crushed pineapple casserole is still a favorite in the South. It’s often seen at holiday meals and church gatherings.

Key Takeaways

• Pineapple casserole is a classic Southern side dish dating back to the 1950s
• Features a balance of sweet pineapple and savory cheddar cheese
• Quick to prepare, with just 10 minutes of active time and 30 minutes of baking
• Versatile dish that can be served at Easter, Christmas, and other special occasions
• Yields a generous 1 1/2-quart casserole, serving up to 12 people

A Traditional Southern Comfort Dish: History and Heritage

The pineapple cheese casserole is a classic Southern pineapple casserole loved for decades. It’s a staple in Southern cuisine, rooted in community gatherings and family traditions. These traditions have shaped the American South’s culinary heritage.

Origins of Pineapple Casserole

The pineapple cheese casserole started in the early 20th century. It first showed up in Southern community cookbooks. The mix of canned pineapple, shredded cheese, and a buttery cracker topping made it a hit at gatherings.

Why It’s a Southern Staple

The Southern pineapple casserole is loved for many reasons. It uses simple, tasty ingredients, showing the South’s love for homey dishes. Its sweet-savory taste also shows the South’s creativity in cooking, adding twists to traditional recipes.

From Church Potlucks to Family Tables

For decades, the pineapple cheese casserole has been a staple in the South. It’s a favorite at church potlucks, family reunions, and holidays. Its fame grew with mentions in famous Southern cookbooks, like those by Paula Deen. It brings people together, reminding us of the South’s rich food history.

Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory Flavors

The Southern Pineapple Casserole is loved for its mix of sweet and savory tastes. The juicy pineapple and sharp cheddar cheese offer a great contrast. The buttery cracker topping adds a savory crunch that complements the dish perfectly.

Recent reviews say the casserole has a “perfect balance of sweetness and richness.” It appeals to many tastes. It’s easy to make and is a hit at holiday meals and family dinners.

The recipe combines pineapple, cheddar cheese, sugar, flour, and crushed Ritz crackers. This mix creates a harmonious blend of flavors. The pineapple’s tropical sweetness is balanced by the sharp cheddar, making it both a pineapple bake and a sweet and savory casserole.

This pineapple bake dish is versatile. You can customize the topping with buttered breadcrumbs or a mix of crackers and nuts. This lets you make the sweet and savory casserole your own, ensuring a great meal every time.

“The Southern Pineapple Casserole is a true taste sensation, blending the sweetness of pineapple with the richness of cheddar cheese in a way that will surprise and delight your taste buds.”

Essential Ingredients for Pineapple Casserole Recipe

Pineapple casserole is a favorite in the South. It combines sweet and savory flavors perfectly. To make this dish, you need the right ingredients. Let’s explore what makes this casserole special.

Choosing the Right Pineapple

The heart of this casserole is the pineapple. Choose high-quality canned pineapple chunks or tidbits, like Dole. This sweet, juicy pineapple adds a tropical flavor and balances the cheese.

For a creamier texture, use crushed pineapple. But don’t forget to save the pineapple juice. It’s essential for the recipe.

Cheese Selection Tips

Choosing the right cheese is key. Sharp or extra-sharp cheddar is the best choice. It adds a bold, savory flavor that contrasts the pineapple’s sweetness.

Shredding the cheese helps it melt evenly. This creates a gooey, irresistible texture in the casserole.

Cracker Topping Options

A crispy, buttery cracker topping is essential. Ritz crackers are the top choice for their Southern taste and crunch. Crushed Ritz crackers mixed with melted butter make a golden-brown crust.

This crust perfectly complements the sweet pineapple and savory cheese layers. With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious crushed pineapple casserole or pineapple cheese casserole. It will surely delight your taste buds and take you to the South.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make the tasty pineapple casserole, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. First, grab a baking dish, like an 8×8 or 9×9 inch square pan. This is where you’ll put the casserole to bake. You’ll also need a medium-sized mixing bowl for mixing the pineapple, sugar, and other ingredients.

For grating the cheese, a sharp cheese grater is a must. A rubber spatula or wooden spoon will help with stirring and mixing. And, you can’t forget measuring cups and spoons to get the right amounts of each ingredient.

While not required, some tools can make things easier. A food processor can crush crackers quickly, a hand mixer blends the topping well, or a stand mixer makes prep work a breeze. Also, have butter or non-stick cooking spray ready to grease the baking dish for the pineapple casserole recipe.

With these tools and equipment, you’re ready to make a delicious pineapple casserole recipe. It’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Making the perfect pineapple casserole recipe is easy and fun. Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a big bowl, mix together the pineapple, its juice, flour, cheese, and sugar. Make sure everything is well mixed and the flour is fully incorporated.

Preparing the Pineapple Mixture

Put the pineapple mix into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly. This is the base of your tasty casserole.

Creating the Buttery Crumb Topping

In another bowl, crush buttery crackers into small pieces. Melt butter and mix it with the cracker crumbs. This will make a tasty topping. Spread it over the pineapple layer for a golden crust.

Baking Instructions

1. Put the pineapple casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Wait until the top is golden and the filling bubbles.
2. Watch the casserole closely towards the end to avoid overbrowning.
3. When it’s done, take it out of the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before you serve it.

Follow these steps to make a delicious pineapple casserole recipe. It’s a mix of sweet pineapple and savory topping. Share it with your family and friends!

Tips for the Perfect Texture and Consistency

Creating the perfect pineapple cheese casserole is all about achieving the right balance of textures and flavors. Here are some tips to help you nail the ideal consistency for this delightful Southern dish:

1. Add Pineapple Juice for Moisture: Don’t be afraid to incorporate a splash of pineapple juice into the casserole mixture. This will help keep the dish moist and prevent it from drying out during baking.
2. Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold the ingredients together to maintain the casserole’s light and fluffy texture. Overmixing can lead to a dense, heavy consistency.
3. Allow for Cooling: Let the pineapple cheese casserole cool slightly before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set up nicely.

If your casserole appears a bit dry, don’t hesitate to drizzle some melted butter over the top before serving. For an extra crispy and golden-brown topping, try broiling the casserole for a few minutes after baking.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure your pineapple cheese casserole has the perfect texture and consistency every time. It will make it a truly irresistible Southern comfort food classic.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

The classic pineapple noodle casserole or pineapple bread pudding casserole is a Southern comfort dish. It pairs well with many main courses and side dishes. It’s perfect for holiday meals or family gatherings.

Holiday Meal Ideas

The pineapple casserole is great as a side dish for Easter, Christmas, or Thanksgiving. It goes well with a juicy baked ham, roasted turkey, or succulent pork tenderloin. It makes any feast festive.

Complementary Side Dishes

• Roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts
• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Classic Southern-style potato salad
• Deviled eggs
• Fluffy angel biscuits
• Sautéed collard greens or turnip greens
• Homemade cornbread or cornbread casserole
• Creamy macaroni and cheese

These side dishes complement the sweet and savory flavors of the pineapple casserole. They make for a harmonious and satisfying meal.

“The pineapple casserole is a true Southern classic. It brings a touch of sweetness and nostalgia to any gathering.”

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Enjoying the pineapple casserole recipe is best when you store and reheat it right. Here’s what you need to know:

Storing Pineapple Casserole

• Freshly baked pineapple casserole is best served immediately for optimal flavor and texture.
• Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For longer-term storage, individual portions of the casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Reheating Pineapple Casserole

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover pineapple casserole recipe, follow these steps for the best results:

1. If frozen, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Place the pineapple casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it loosely with foil to prevent the cracker topping from drying out.
4. Reheat the casserole in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the edges are bubbly.

The cracker topping may become slightly softer during storage. But the overall flavor and texture of the pineapple casserole will still be delicious.

Recipe Variations and Modifications

Pineapple casserole is a versatile dish that can be customized to fit your taste. You can add extra flavor, texture, or make it fit your dietary needs. It’s a classic Southern comfort food that you can make your own.

Adding Extra Ingredients

For a tropical twist, add toasted coconut flakes to the pineapple mixture. The crunchy texture and sweet flavor pair well with pineapple. You can also add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.

Don’t be afraid to try different cheeses instead of sharp cheddar. Pineapple casserole also pairs well with Gouda, Gruyère, or even a blend of cheeses.

Dietary Adaptations

For a gluten-free version, swap the traditional crackers for a gluten-free alternative. You can also use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. This makes the dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

To reduce sweetness, try using less sugar in the recipe. This will make the pineapple casserole less sweet and more savory. It’s perfect for those who prefer less sugar.

You can also adapt pineapple casserole into desserts like pineapple dump cake or pineapple upside-down cake. This lets you experiment with different flavors and preparation methods.

By trying out these variations, you can make the pineapple casserole fit your dietary needs and taste. You’ll still enjoy the classic Southern flavors that make this dish so loved.

Nutritional Information and Portion Size

The pineapple casserole recipe is a treat for your taste buds. It also has a nutritional profile that might surprise you. Each serving has 195 calories and a good mix of macronutrients.

Per serving (1/10 of the casserole), you’ll find:

• Calories: 195
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 9g (Saturated Fat: 5g, Trans Fat: 0.2g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g, Monounsaturated Fat: 2g)
• Cholesterol: 24mg
• Sodium: 113mg
• Potassium: 155mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 23g

This pineapple casserole recipe also provides a decent amount of essential vitamins and minerals, including:

• Vitamin A: 565IU
• Vitamin C: 10.6mg
• Calcium: 202mg
• Iron: 1.2mg

The typical serving size is about 1/2 cup. It’s a satisfying and flavorful addition to any meal. With its rich, creamy texture and perfect balance of sweet and savory, this pineapple casserole recipe will delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

Conclusion

The Southern pineapple casserole is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. It’s a beloved comfort food in the American South. This recipe has moved beyond church potlucks and family gatherings. Now, it’s a staple on holiday tables and in everyday meals.

The pineapple cheese casserole’s rich history and adaptability show the creativity of Southern cooking. It’s enjoyed as a side dish or a comforting dessert. This dish delights those who taste its unique flavors. As you make your own Southern pineapple casserole, celebrate the region’s culinary heritage. Create lasting memories with your loved ones.

The Southern pineapple casserole is a testament to simple, yet ingenious, culinary combinations. Its popularity and versatility make it a key part of Southern cooking. It brings people together and leaves a lasting impression with its delightful flavors.